#serena joy waterford
When it comes to discussing favourite characters, we all know the phrase ‘love at first sight’. But what I appreciate even more is that characters you may not love immediately, but grow to.
During the first season of the Handmaid’s Tale I hated Serena Joy. She seemed wicked and took delight in others suffering. I now think the truth about Serena is far more complex.
It was only till I rewatched parts and looked closer- I realized Serena is actually pretty darn fascinating. She isn’t cruel in a MWAHAHA way, but because she’s anxious and paranoid. She wrestles with her complex feelings and thoughts with Fred, Gilead, June and everything she believed in. She also has a creative streak (writing a book) that I appreciate. But what makes Serena spectacular is the choices she makes. Whether it’s giving her “child” to June, showing a Bible to the Gilead men, leaving Canada, or goes behind Fred’s back- she is fascinating to watch because despite having little agency, she makes the damn most of what she has.
You get the feeling watching her scenes that her choices will shape the show’s future. And I love that! She’s a character with plenty of dramatic weight.
I went from dreading her screentime to thinking she’s one of- if not THE best character on the show. I love Serena so much. It took me time to appreciate her- but I’m glad I do.
