8+ Netflix's Dorian Gray: Haunting Picture Show


8+ Netflix's Dorian Gray: Haunting Picture Show

The phrase denotes the potential adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s novel, The Image of Dorian Grey, into a visible format meant for distribution on the Netflix streaming platform. It suggests a display adaptation of the gothic and philosophical novel that explores themes of vainness, morality, and the corrupting affect of hedonism by the story of a person whose portrait ages whereas he stays youthful.

The difference of basic literature, comparable to Wilde’s work, for streaming companies provides a number of potential advantages. It introduces canonical tales to new audiences, probably inspiring additional engagement with the unique textual content. Streaming variations may also supply contemporary interpretations of established narratives, exploring new thematic angles or visible types. Traditionally, variations of The Image of Dorian Grey have diverse extensively of their constancy to the supply materials and their crucial reception, making every new iteration a topic of appreciable curiosity.

The next sections will discover the particular challenges and alternatives inherent in adapting this explicit novel for a contemporary streaming viewers, specializing in potential casting decisions, narrative modifications, and the general aesthetic course such a venture would possibly take.

1. Trendy Viewers Enchantment

The relevance of adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for up to date viewers hinges considerably on its potential to resonate with fashionable sensibilities. A profitable adaptation necessitates a nuanced understanding of present social values and cultural developments to make sure the storys themes and characters are each partaking and thought-provoking.

  • Ethical Complexity and Anti-Heroes

    Up to date audiences typically gravitate in direction of characters with ethical ambiguity, fairly than simple heroes or villains. An adaptation should discover Dorian’s flaws and motivations with depth, avoiding simplistic judgements and permitting viewers to grapple with the complexities of his decisions. This strategy may mirror the success of different morally gray protagonists fashionable in streaming content material.

  • Exploration of Identification and Self-Picture

    Trendy society is more and more targeted on identification, self-image, and the pressures of societal expectations, significantly throughout the context of social media. The Image of Dorian Grey provides a chance to look at these themes critically, exploring the harmful penalties of prioritizing look and exterior validation over inside integrity. This focus aligns with prevalent discussions about psychological well being and physique picture.

  • Relevance of Social Commentary

    Wilde’s novel supplies social commentary on the superficiality of Victorian excessive society. A contemporary adaptation may replace this commentary to mirror up to date points comparable to celeb tradition, influencer advertising and marketing, and the pursuit of unattainable magnificence requirements. This requires cautious adaptation to keep away from being preachy whereas nonetheless highlighting the risks of a society obsessive about appearances.

  • Queer Subtext and Illustration

    The novel accommodates important queer subtext, reflecting the social constraints and coded language of Wilde’s period. A contemporary adaptation has the chance to discover these themes explicitly, providing genuine illustration of queer experiences and difficult conventional notions of sexuality and identification. This illustration can add layers of depth and relevance to the narrative.

By addressing these sides, a possible “Netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation can faucet into up to date issues and values, making it greater than only a retelling of a basic story. It might probably turn into a related and interesting exploration of timeless themes, sparking significant conversations about magnificence, morality, and the human situation within the twenty first century.

2. Casting Concerns

The choice of actors for a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation is paramount to its success. Casting decisions is not going to solely decide the visible illustration of the characters but in addition affect the viewers’s notion of the story’s themes and ethical complexities. Securing actors who can embody the nuanced traits of every function is crucial for a compelling and devoted adaptation.

  • Dorian Grey: Magnificence and Corruption

    The actor solid as Dorian Grey should possess hanging bodily magnificence, able to fascinating each the characters throughout the narrative and the viewers. Crucially, the actor should additionally have the ability to painting the character’s gradual ethical decay and inside turmoil because the portrait displays his sins. The actor’s efficiency must reveal the dichotomy between Dorian’s exterior look and his inside corruption. Examples embrace actors recognized for taking part in charismatic but flawed characters, comparable to these in “Breaking Unhealthy” or “Home of Playing cards”.

  • Lord Henry Wotton: Wit and Affect

    Lord Henry Wotton requires an actor adept at delivering Wildean wit and philosophical cynicism. The actor should convey Lord Henry’s manipulative allure and his profound affect on Dorian’s worldview. This function calls for an actor who can painting mental superiority whereas hinting at a deeper, maybe self-destructive, hedonism. A comparable instance may very well be present in actors recognized for portraying crafty and charismatic mentors, just like roles in “Sherlock” or “The Queen’s Gambit”.

  • Basil Hallward: Idealism and Obsession

    Basil Hallward’s portrayal necessitates an actor able to embodying each creative idealism and an obsessive fascination with Dorian. The actor should convey Basil’s real admiration for Dorian’s magnificence and his rising unease as he witnesses Dorian’s ethical decline. This function requires an actor who can painting vulnerability and creative ardour, just like portrayals of artists in movies like “Frida” or “Loving Vincent”.

  • Supporting Characters: Depth and Authenticity

    Casting for supporting roles comparable to Sibyl Vane and numerous members of Victorian society additionally calls for cautious consideration. Actors should have the ability to painting the social mores and emotional complexities of the period, contributing to the general authenticity of the difference. These roles, although smaller, are crucial for establishing the social context and highlighting the results of Dorian’s actions. Examples may be present in interval dramas like “The Crown” or “Downton Abbey”.

The success of any “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation is inextricably linked to the talent and suitability of its solid. Mismatched casting can undermine the story’s themes and diminish its affect. Due to this fact, the casting course of should prioritize actors who can authentically embody the characters’ complexities, making certain a compelling and devoted portrayal of Wilde’s masterpiece.

3. Visible Interpretation

Visible interpretation is a foundational ingredient of any cinematic adaptation, and its significance is amplified when contemplating a hypothetical “netflix image of dorian grey.” The novel’s central conceit, the visible manifestation of Dorian’s ethical corruption in his portrait, necessitates a compelling and modern visible technique. The success of the difference hinges on successfully translating the summary idea of inside decay right into a tangible, visually arresting kind. Previous variations have approached this problem with various levels of success, using strategies starting from delicate growing old results to grotesque transformations. The precise visible strategy chosen immediately impacts the viewers’s understanding of Dorian’s descent and the results of his actions. A poorly executed visible ingredient dangers undermining the story’s core thematic issues. For instance, a low-budget or unconvincing portrayal of the portrait may distract from the narrative’s exploration of vainness and morality.

A possible “netflix image of dorian grey” may leverage fashionable visible results know-how to create a portrait that evolves realistically over time. This might contain delicate modifications within the portrait’s expression, step by step reflecting Dorian’s more and more cynical and merciless demeanor. The usage of lighting, shade palettes, and composition may additional emphasize the distinction between Dorian’s youthful look and the portrait’s deteriorating state. Moreover, the difference may discover the portrait’s visible affect on Dorian himself, displaying his rising horror and obsession with its reflection of his true self. This may very well be achieved by subjective digital camera angles and dreamlike sequences that visualize Dorian’s inside turmoil. The visible interpretation additionally extends to the general aesthetic of the movie, with manufacturing design, costumes, and cinematography contributing to the decadent and gothic environment of the story.

In conclusion, the visible interpretation of The Image of Dorian Grey for a streaming platform like Netflix presents each alternatives and challenges. The developments in visible results present the potential for a really compelling and disturbing portrayal of Dorian’s ethical decay. Nonetheless, the visible parts should be fastidiously built-in into the narrative, serving to boost the story’s themes fairly than overshadow them. The difference’s success is determined by a cohesive visible technique that successfully interprets the novel’s central metaphor right into a visually partaking and emotionally resonant expertise. The visible decisions immediately affect the viewers’s understanding and engagement with the story’s exploration of vainness, morality, and the corrupting affect of unchecked want.

4. Thematic Relevance

Thematic relevance acts as a crucial part of any potential “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. The diploma to which the story’s underlying themes resonate with up to date audiences immediately influences the difference’s success. An adaptation that fails to attach with fashionable issues dangers changing into a dated or irrelevant train in interval drama. The cause-and-effect relationship is evident: robust thematic resonance results in elevated viewers engagement and important appreciation, whereas an absence of thematic relevance diminishes the difference’s affect. As an example, variations of basic literature that efficiently spotlight enduring social or psychological truths are likely to fare higher than people who merely recreate the narrative with out exploring its deeper meanings. The sensible significance of understanding this lies within the want for cautious adaptation of the supply materials to emphasise points that align with present societal discussions and values.

The significance of thematic relevance may be illustrated by contemplating profitable variations of different basic works. Diversifications of Shakespeare, for instance, typically emphasize common themes of energy, ambition, and love, resonating with audiences throughout centuries. Equally, a “netflix image of dorian grey” may spotlight themes of self-obsession, the pursuit of unattainable magnificence requirements, and the corrosive results of social media tradition. Adapting these parts thoughtfully and explicitly connects the narrative to present-day issues, making the story extra compelling and thought-provoking. This requires a deliberate effort to translate the novel’s Victorian-era social commentary into a up to date context. The exploration of identification, ethical decay, and the pressures of societal expectations are themes that stay powerfully related and supply avenues for in-depth evaluation and interpretation in a contemporary adaptation.

In conclusion, thematic relevance just isn’t merely an optionally available add-on however a basic requirement for a profitable “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. By specializing in themes that resonate with fashionable audiencessuch as the risks of superficiality, the complexities of identification, and the corrupting affect of unchecked desiresthe adaptation can transcend its historic setting and supply a well timed and significant commentary on up to date society. The problem lies in hanging a steadiness between constancy to the unique textual content and the necessity to adapt the story for a brand new technology. This necessitates a deep understanding of each the novel’s core themes and the prevailing issues of recent audiences.

5. Ethical Ambiguity

Ethical ambiguity is central to understanding the enduring enchantment and potential affect of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. The novel’s energy lies in its exploration of characters and conditions that resist straightforward categorization as both good or evil, forcing audiences to confront complicated moral questions.

  • Dorian Grey’s Descent

    Dorian’s character arc exemplifies ethical ambiguity. Initially offered as an harmless and delightful youth, he step by step succumbs to hedonism and corruption. The difference ought to keep away from portraying him as a easy villain; as a substitute, it should discover the influences that result in his downfall, together with Lord Henry’s cynical philosophy and the societal pressures that prioritize magnificence over morality. An efficient portrayal requires illustrating the erosion of Dorian’s conscience, showcasing his inside conflicts and the rationalizations he employs to justify his actions.

  • Lord Henry Wotton’s Affect

    Lord Henry’s character embodies a unique side of ethical ambiguity. His wit and allure masks a deeply amoral worldview. Whereas he doesn’t immediately commit the identical acts as Dorian, his cynical pronouncements and manipulative affect play a vital function in Dorian’s corruption. The difference ought to discover the complexities of Lord Henry’s character, inspecting whether or not he’s merely an observer of human nature or an energetic agent of ethical decay. His motivations, whether or not pushed by mental curiosity or a want for private gratification, needs to be fastidiously thought of.

  • The Portrait as a Reflection of Ambiguity

    The portrait itself represents ethical ambiguity. It serves as a visible report of Dorian’s sins, but it surely additionally raises questions concerning the nature of magnificence, morality, and the connection between look and actuality. The difference should successfully painting the portrait’s evolution, showcasing not solely its bodily transformation but in addition its symbolic illustration of Dorian’s inside state. The altering portrait challenges viewers to think about whether or not outward magnificence can actually masks inside corruption, and whether or not artwork can precisely mirror the complexities of the human soul.

  • Societal Complicity

    The novel’s depiction of Victorian society highlights the collective ethical ambiguity of the period. The characters’ obsession with appearances, their hypocrisy, and their willingness to show a blind eye to Dorian’s conduct all contribute to his downfall. The difference ought to discover the societal context that permits Dorian’s actions, inspecting the methods during which the pursuit of enjoyment and the concern of scandal contribute to ethical decay. This exploration requires depicting the social pressures and expectations that form particular person conduct and contribute to a tradition of ethical compromise.

These sides of ethical ambiguity are important to a compelling “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. By exploring the complexities of Dorian’s character, Lord Henry’s affect, the portrait’s symbolism, and the societal context, the difference can supply a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the enduring battle between magnificence and morality. The difference should keep away from easy ethical judgements, as a substitute encouraging viewers to grapple with the complexities of the characters’ decisions and the results of their actions.

6. Supply Materials Constancy

The idea of supply materials constancy bears important weight when evaluating the potential success and important reception of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. Adherence to Oscar Wilde’s authentic textual content capabilities as a vital determinant in how the difference is perceived by each literary purists and common audiences. A excessive diploma of constancy can result in popularity of respecting the writer’s imaginative and prescient and preserving the novel’s nuanced themes. Conversely, important deviations from the supply materials can alienate viewers accustomed to the unique work and lift questions concerning the adaptation’s function and creative integrity. The cause-and-effect relationship is clear: deliberate alterations to plot, characterization, or thematic emphasis can essentially reshape the narrative and alter its meant message. The significance of supply materials constancy lies in its potential to keep up the integrity of Wilde’s complicated exploration of magnificence, morality, and the corrupting affect of societal pressures.

Traditionally, variations of The Image of Dorian Grey have diverse significantly of their faithfulness to the unique textual content. Some variations have hewed intently to the novel’s plot and dialogue, whereas others have taken important liberties, modernizing the setting, altering character relationships, or introducing new subplots. The success of those variations has been blended, with some reaching crucial acclaim for his or her modern interpretations and others dealing with criticism for straying too removed from Wilde’s imaginative and prescient. For instance, a hypothetical adaptation that considerably alters Dorian’s motivations or Lord Henry’s philosophical cynicism dangers undermining the novel’s central themes and diluting its commentary on Victorian society. Equally, modernizing the setting with out cautious consideration of the social and cultural context can diminish the story’s affect. A balanced strategy requires considerate consideration of which parts of the supply materials are important to the story’s core message and which points may be tailored or reinterpreted for a contemporary viewers. The sensible utility of this understanding includes cautious scriptwriting, considerate casting decisions, and a transparent articulation of the difference’s creative targets.

In conclusion, supply materials constancy represents a crucial issue within the reception and success of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. Whereas a point of adaptation is inevitable when translating a novel into a visible medium, sustaining the integrity of Wilde’s authentic imaginative and prescient is crucial for preserving the story’s thematic depth and cultural significance. The problem lies in hanging a steadiness between respecting the supply materials and making a contemporary and interesting adaptation for a contemporary viewers. This requires cautious consideration of which parts of the novel are indispensable to its core message and which points may be tailored or reinterpreted with out compromising the story’s integrity. Finally, the success of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation will rely on its potential to honor Wilde’s legacy whereas additionally providing a compelling and related interpretation for up to date viewers.

7. Potential Controversies

Adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for a up to date platform like Netflix invitations a spectrum of potential controversies. The supply materials’s themes of ethical corruption, hedonism, and aestheticism, mixed with the sensitivities of recent audiences, necessitate cautious navigation to keep away from producing detrimental reactions and guarantee accountable storytelling.

  • Exploitation and Consent

    The novel accommodates parts of manipulation and potential exploitation, significantly in Dorian’s relationships with Sibyl Vane and different characters. A contemporary adaptation could face scrutiny concerning the portrayal of energy dynamics and the depiction of consent. Cautious consideration should be given to how these relationships are depicted to keep away from perpetuating dangerous stereotypes or minimizing the gravity of exploitation. As an example, scenes depicting Dorian’s interactions with Sibyl needs to be dealt with with sensitivity, making certain that her company and vulnerability are revered.

  • Glorification of Hedonism

    The central theme of pursuing pleasure with out consequence may very well be interpreted as a glorification of hedonism, probably sparking criticism for selling irresponsible conduct. A accountable adaptation ought to critically look at the results of Dorian’s decisions, highlighting the harmful nature of unchecked want and the significance of ethical accountability. This might contain emphasizing the psychological toll of Dorian’s actions and the detrimental affect on these round him.

  • Visible Depiction of Decadence

    The novel’s decadent environment and descriptions of lavish life may very well be interpreted as selling materialism and extra. A contemporary adaptation must keep away from fetishizing wealth and privilege, as a substitute specializing in the vacancy and ethical decay that usually accompany such life. The visible portrayal of decadence ought to serve to underscore the superficiality and supreme unsatisfying nature of Dorian’s pursuit of enjoyment.

  • Queer Subtext and Illustration

    Whereas the novel accommodates important queer subtext, the particular illustration of LGBTQ+ characters and relationships may turn into a supply of controversy. An adaptation should make sure that queer characters are portrayed with respect and authenticity, avoiding stereotypes or dangerous tropes. Moreover, the exploration of Dorian’s relationships with Lord Henry and Basil Hallward must be dealt with with sensitivity, acknowledging the potential for homoerotic interpretations whereas avoiding exploitative or sensationalized depictions.

These potential controversies underscore the necessity for a nuanced and accountable strategy to adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for a contemporary viewers. A profitable adaptation should have interaction with the novel’s complicated themes in a considerate method, avoiding simplistic interpretations and making certain that the story’s ethical message resonates with up to date values. Failure to handle these potential points may lead to important backlash and undermine the difference’s creative and social worth.

8. Streaming Format Impression

The streaming format exerts a major affect on the potential adaptation of The Image of Dorian Grey for Netflix. The episodic nature and binge-watching tradition related to streaming platforms necessitate cautious consideration of narrative construction, pacing, and character growth. A movie adaptation, constrained by a restricted runtime, requires a condensed and targeted strategy. Conversely, a streaming collection permits for a extra expansive exploration of the novel’s themes and characters, allowing better nuance and complexity.

The streaming format’s affect manifests in a number of key areas. Character arcs may be prolonged and deepened, offering alternatives to discover Dorian’s ethical decline in better element. Subplots and secondary characters, typically omitted or truncated in movie variations, may be given better prominence. The episodic construction permits for cliffhangers and narrative threads that preserve viewer engagement throughout a number of installments. Moreover, the accessibility of streaming platforms expands the potential viewers for The Image of Dorian Grey, introducing Wilde’s work to a brand new technology of viewers. Nonetheless, this additionally necessitates a level of modernization and adaptation to resonate with up to date sensibilities, probably resulting in deviations from the supply materials.

In conclusion, the streaming format presents each alternatives and challenges for a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. The power to broaden the narrative and discover its themes in better depth is a major benefit. Nonetheless, the necessity to adapt the story for a contemporary viewers and preserve viewer engagement throughout a number of episodes requires cautious planning and execution. The success of the difference hinges on successfully leveraging the streaming format’s distinctive traits whereas remaining true to the spirit and themes of Wilde’s authentic novel. This includes hanging a steadiness between constancy to the supply materials and the calls for of a up to date streaming viewers.

Often Requested Questions

This part addresses frequent queries and misconceptions surrounding the hypothetical adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s The Image of Dorian Grey for the Netflix streaming platform. The next questions and solutions goal to offer readability on numerous points of the potential venture.

Query 1: Is a Netflix adaptation of The Image of Dorian Grey formally confirmed?

As of the present date, no official announcement has been made by Netflix concerning the manufacturing or growth of a Image of Dorian Grey adaptation. Discussions and articles surrounding this subject stay speculative and primarily based on the potential enchantment and suitability of the novel for the streaming service.

Query 2: What challenges exist in adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for a contemporary viewers?

A number of challenges current themselves. These embrace balancing constancy to the supply materials with the necessity to resonate with up to date sensibilities, addressing the novel’s themes of hedonism and ethical corruption responsibly, and navigating potential controversies surrounding LGBTQ+ illustration and exploitation.

Query 3: How would possibly a Netflix adaptation differ from earlier movie variations?

A streaming collection format permits for a extra expansive exploration of the novel’s themes, characters, and subplots in comparison with the constraints of a function movie. This might result in a deeper examination of Dorian’s ethical decay, Lord Henry’s affect, and the societal context of the story.

Query 4: What are the important thing thematic parts a Netflix adaptation ought to emphasize?

A profitable adaptation ought to emphasize the timeless themes of self-obsession, the pursuit of unattainable magnificence requirements, the corrupting affect of societal pressures, and the results of unchecked want. These themes retain their relevance in up to date society and supply alternatives for significant commentary.

Query 5: How essential is casting to the success of a possible adaptation?

Casting is paramount. The actor portraying Dorian Grey should possess the charisma and wonder to captivate viewers whereas additionally conveying the character’s gradual ethical decay. Equally, the actors portraying Lord Henry and Basil Hallward should embody the complexities of their respective roles.

Query 6: What visible parts are essential for successfully portraying the story’s central metaphor?

The visible illustration of Dorian’s portrait is crucial. Trendy visible results know-how may be leveraged to create a compelling and disturbing portrayal of the portrait’s evolution, reflecting Dorian’s inside corruption and serving as a visible illustration of his ethical decline.

These FAQs goal to make clear the present standing and potential issues surrounding a hypothetical “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. Additional developments will rely on Netflix’s future programming selections.

The dialogue now transitions to inspecting comparable literary variations which have discovered success on streaming platforms, offering context and potential fashions for adapting Wilde’s novel.

Concerns for a “Netflix Image of Dorian Grey” Adaptation

This part outlines essential issues for a profitable adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s novel for Netflix. Addressing these factors can improve narrative affect and viewers engagement.

Tip 1: Emphasize Trendy Thematic Resonance: Prioritize themes related to up to date audiences. Discover the risks of social media-driven self-obsession, the strain of unattainable magnificence requirements, and the results of ethical compromise in a digital age.

Tip 2: Nuance Character Morality: Keep away from simplistic portrayals of excellent versus evil. Develop Dorian Grey as a posh character formed by exterior influences and inside conflicts. Lord Henry Wotton’s cynicism needs to be portrayed as a catalyst for Dorian’s decisions, not as pure malice.

Tip 3: Prioritize Visible Storytelling: The portrait’s visible transformation is paramount. Make the most of superior visible results to depict its decay realistically, reflecting Dorian’s inside corruption and the psychological affect of his actions. Combine visible cues inside Dorian’s environment and interactions to additional spotlight the disparity between his look and his ethical state.

Tip 4: Deal with Queer Subtext with Sensitivity: Explicitly discover the queer subtext current in Wilde’s novel whereas avoiding dangerous stereotypes. Guarantee genuine and respectful illustration of LGBTQ+ characters and relationships, contributing to a extra inclusive and nuanced narrative.

Tip 5: Steadiness Constancy and Innovation: Respect the supply materials’s integrity whereas adapting it for a streaming viewers. Retain important plot factors and thematic parts, however think about modernizing the setting and character dynamics to boost relevance and accessibility.

Tip 6: Deal with Potential Controversies Head-On: Thoughtfully deal with probably controversial themes comparable to exploitation, hedonism, and ethical decay. Keep away from glorifying irresponsible conduct and emphasize the results of unchecked want. Be sure that depictions of energy imbalances and consent are dealt with with sensitivity and respect.

Tip 7: Leverage the Streaming Format: Make the most of the episodic construction of a streaming collection to broaden character arcs, discover subplots, and construct suspense. Craft compelling cliffhangers and narrative threads to keep up viewer engagement throughout a number of episodes.

Addressing these issues can maximize the potential for a profitable adaptation, leading to a thought-provoking and visually compelling collection that resonates with up to date audiences.

The concluding part will summarize the important thing parts required to create a “Netflix Image of Dorian Grey” adaptation that’s each devoted to the supply materials and related to fashionable viewers.

Conclusion

The previous evaluation has explored the potential and challenges inherent in adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for the Netflix streaming platform. Key areas of consideration embrace thematic relevance, casting decisions, visible interpretation, ethical ambiguity, supply materials constancy, potential controversies, and the affect of the streaming format. Every of those parts calls for cautious consideration to make sure a profitable adaptation that resonates with fashionable audiences whereas remaining true to the spirit of Oscar Wilde’s authentic work. The “netflix image of dorian grey,” if realized, would require a fragile steadiness between respecting the supply materials and modernizing its themes for up to date viewers.

The enduring enchantment of The Image of Dorian Grey lies in its timeless exploration of vainness, morality, and the corrupting affect of unchecked want. A profitable adaptation for Netflix wouldn’t solely introduce this basic story to a brand new technology but in addition spark significant conversations concerning the moral implications of pursuing pleasure and the significance of inside integrity. Additional growth hinges on a dedication to accountable storytelling, nuanced character portrayals, and a visually compelling illustration of Dorian Grey’s tragic descent.