Netflix 'Beef' Episode 3 lays bare startling divide between rich and poor criminals
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Netflix' is the gift that keeps on giving. The newest addition to Netflix's lineup of content is 'Beef.' When pent up anger takes control and the idea of speeding seems delectable, that's how road rage is born. There are many themes to this Netflix original series that stars Ali Wong and Steven Yeun in the lead. As there are many intricate details to the show, some quite subtle in their import, it is best to re-watch this one for some of the more microscopic nuances. A simple string of events turns into a web of chaos that brings the best out of both Wong and Yeun. They really do justice to their characters without overshadowing the movie's message.
Among the many themes, the best one of them all is the concept of conscience. And how people who are blessed with generational wealth often seem to lack this personal moral compass. The "immoral rich and virtuous poor" is not a new concept and has been included in cinematic depections since the beginning of moving pictures. But rather than being hit over the head with it, we see how wealth naturally contributes to having advantages — the most important one being getting away with doing something criminal.
READ MORE
What day and time will 'Beef' release? Everything you need to know about Netflix dark comedy show
Who is Steven Yeun's wife? 'Beef' star's partner Joana Pak is a professional photographer
Punishment and remorse
'Beef' stars Ali Wong as Amy as a plant enthusiast who is married to a wealthy man, but in later episodes we learn that she wasn't born rich, but fought her way into the ranks of the wealthy. While coming from the other side of the town is Steven Yeun's Danny. He has lost his motel business and sent his parents to South Korea, while struggling to make ends meet.
After a road rage incident that happens between Amy and Danny, there are quite a few scenes that go back-and-forth between Amy's cushy life to Danny's desperate days. The one thing that comes out as a repetitive theme is how the difference in wealth affects your chances of getting caught.
The power of privilege
While the entire road rage incident seems to make Amy feisty, it makes Danny scared for his life. The series comes out as a harsh reminder of how people who are blessed with wealth are always someone who aren't that scared about doing something criminal, but a poor person can't escape consequences. While Amy lives her life happily ever after literally having an angry car chase, Danny finds a way to deal with the entire trauma-inducing incident by joining a church. While Danny doesn't come out as entirely innocent and Amy isn't a villian, the plot does point out the power of privilege and the lack of it.
'Beef' is exclusively available to watch on Netflix.
