‘Industry’ Characters’ Growth Makes It More Addictive Than ‘Succession’

For those who haven’t seen HBO drama Industry, it’s often compared to Euphoria but in London’s financial sector. There are also comparisons to Succession, due to the cutthroat industry and shifting power dynamics. While it might be easy to label Industry as an imitator, doing so would be a mistake, especially as it prepares to launch its third season.

Don’t sleep on Industry‘s new season. The third-season trailer might make it seem like Myha’la Herrold’s character, Harper, is taking a back seat to Marisa Abela’s Yasmin and Kit Harington’s Sir Henry Muck, but that’s not the case.

These concerns arise because Season 2 ended with Eric (Ken Leung) betraying and firing Harper from Pierpoint. This move greatly impacts their dynamic, but Harper is still very much in the picture. She’s at home with Yasmin and Rob (Harry Lawtey), and she’s thriving in a new job under a new mentor (Sarah Goldberg). Harper is still as ruthless, brilliant, self-destructive, and flawed as ever, remaining one of TV’s most compelling characters on one of its most addictive shows.

Industry‘s charm lies in its diverse cast of morally complex young analysts, setting it apart from Succession‘s more homogeneous set of characters. This season delves deeper into Yasmin’s psyche, revealing that her privileged background doesn’t shield her from life’s harsh realities.

Yasmin is portrayed as a survivor who struggles against seemingly insurmountable odds. Her story adds depth to the series, offering a fuller picture of who she is and why she behaves the way she does. These details make the moments when the show’s focus shifts away from Harper even more engaging.

Yasmin’s struggles don’t overshadow the challenges Harper faces as a Black woman in the financial industry. Harper’s journey has always been about survival without the advantages of privilege. This season continues to explore her background while also focusing on Yasmin’s troubles.

The show also gives Rob some well-deserved development. He has grown professionally and personally, showing more maturity and awareness than in previous seasons. Rob’s journey adds another layer to the series, rounding out its ensemble cast.

Kit Harington’s character, Sir Henry Muck, appears to be a typical green-tech CEO with a party-boy persona, but there’s more to him. Harington brings depth to the role, exploring the character’s battle with ambition, anxiety, and self-perception. This role allows Harington to shine, offering the challenge he deserves.

Sex and drugs remain significant themes, serving as vices for almost every character, including Eric. This season allows Ken Leung to deliver a nuanced performance as he copes with changes in his life and career. His reactions to Harper’s mistakes are particularly noteworthy, even when they are no longer working together. Leung’s performance adds another layer of enjoyment to the show.

The third season of Industry shows that the series has the potential to reach a broader audience. It could become a streaming sensation like Suits, which found renewed popularity on Netflix years after its original run. If you’re not already watching, now is the perfect time to start and join the growing fanbase.

‘Industry’ returns to HBO on Sunday, August 11.

Source: HBO