Critical Analysis of the 4th Season of Thirteen Reasons Why

Introduction

The fourth season of Thirteen Reasons Why has drawn a mixed bag of reactions—from admiration for its predecessors to disappointment for more recent episodes. This article delves into my personal assessment and critical analysis of season 4, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses and exploring the impact on the overall series.

Season 4: A Letdown After High Expectations

My current viewing experience with season 4 has been far more disappointing than any other season. Season 1 captivated me with its innovative, clever approach in exploring real-world issues, but subsequent seasons seemed to lose their way. I will refrain from detailing why I feel this way to avoid spoilers for others still engaged in the series. However, it is important to acknowledge that the show has grown increasingly challenging to view, especially in the current socio-political climate.

The fourth season in particular has been the most convoluted and hazy. By the end of the series, the characters at Liberty High School have reached their breaking point. Clay Jensen, the main character, serves as a prime example of this mental deterioration. Season 4 seems to focus heavily on Clay's declining mental health since the first season, where he has been dealing with issues such as panic attacks and a sense of isolation. Other characters, such as Tony, Justin, Jessica, and Tyler, are caught in their own difficult situations but find it hard to extricate themselves.

Problems and Over-Complication

The series's attempt to tackle multiple issues, ranging from mental health to substance abuse, has led to an overcomplicated narrative that loses coherence. In season 4, the show seems to address numerous problems from various characters' perspectives, ultimately leading to a convoluted story that doesn't cohesively connect back to Clay's narrative. This over complication leaves the audience feeling lost, especially as the series progresses into its final episodes.

Clay Jensen: The Flag Bearer of Struggle

Clay Jensen's character arc in season 4 is a standout example of the show's focus on mental health issues. He is depicted as someone who genuinely wants to help others, but his approach often exacerbates problems rather than resolving them. Clay's dedication to solving issues on his own without proper guidance leads to further complications, mirroring the show's overall narrative direction. This approach raises ethical questions about the effectiveness of the show's portrayal of mental health issues.

Loss of Relatability

While the series aimed to make its issues relatable, it ultimately loses its direction. This season feels like an unnecessary exploration of the characters' problems, adding additional layers of complexity to an already challenging storyline. The writing feels at times unidirectional, making it difficult for the audience to connect with the narrative. By the end of the tenth episode, one can only hope that a sense of closure will be provided to the characters who desperately need it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, season 4 of Thirteen Reasons Why falls short of expectations, providing a gloomy and disjointed series. It feels like an unnecessary letdown, particularly from a writing standpoint. Despite the show's support for important issues such as mental health, its execution often fails to deliver a meaningful resolution. The 10 episodes, each around an hour long, culminate in a finale that is slightly longer, adding to the sense of closure but still leaving the audience feeling unsatisfied.