Ep 6. What It Takes

What It Takes, the sixth episode of Season 3 of Succession, delves deeper into the intricate power dynamics and moral complexities that characterize the Roy family’s tumultuous landscape. Picking up from the mounting tensions established in previous episodes, this installment unravels the relentless pursuit of power and control, showcasing the lengths to which individuals will go to secure their positions within the family and the corporate empire they inhabit.

As the episode opens, the stakes are higher than ever. The aftermath of recent betrayals continues to reverberate through the Roy family, creating an atmosphere thick with suspicion, resentment, and ambition. Logan Roy, the domineering patriarch, faces internal challenges from his children who are fiercely vying for both his approval and a larger share of the control over Waystar Royco. Each member of the Roy family brings a unique blend of determination and cunning to the table, showcasing their disparate approaches to handling the impending corporate crisis that looms over their heads.

The episode masterfully navigates the complex relationships between the siblings—Kendall, Shiv, and Roman. Each sibling embodies a different facet of ambition and loyalty, leading to unexpected alliances and further estrangements. Kendall, having recently taken bold steps in his personal crusade against their father, grapples with the repercussions of his decisions. His struggle to rally support from both allies and adversaries highlights the broader theme of loyalty in a family marked by betrayal.

Shiv, on the other hand, finds herself at a crossroads as the political landscape shifts around her. Her calculated maneuvers reveal her desire to prove herself as a capable leader within the company, but her motivations are often clouded by her relationship with her father. This episode explores her internal conflict, as she navigates the diverse expectations imposed upon her by both her family and the corporate world.

Roman's character continues to evolve, often oscillating between irreverence and genuine ambition. His playful banter and charm are juxtaposed with moments of unforeseen determination. Roman's journey in this episode introduces a more serious undertone, as he weighs his own aspirations against the larger familial dynamics at play. The balance of power within the Roy family seems to shift subtly but significantly as the episode progresses, highlighting how fragile loyalties can be when ambition is at stake.

Meanwhile, the episode doesn’t shy away from exploring the broader implications of the Roy family’s influence in the media world. The corporate maneuverings and strategic decisions reflect a fierce battle for dominance, showcasing the intersection of personal relationships and business ethics. As the characters navigate these treacherous waters, themes of ambition, ethics, and the cost of success are brought to the forefront, compelling the audience to reflect on the nature of power and its inherent costs.

Support characters also play a pivotal role in this episode, providing insight into the political currents that swirl around the Roy family. The interactions between the family and executives reveal the deep-seated rivalries and alliances that complicate their corporate dealings. It underscores the perpetual push and pull of loyalty and morality in a world driven by cutthroat competition. The audience gets a glimpse into the strategies employed by these secondary characters, each with their own stakes in the corporate game, enhancing the overall tension.

Visually and thematically, the episode captures the opulence and moral decay of the Roy family’s world. The cinematography adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing the stark contrasts between public facades and private turmoil. The signature Succession aesthetic is on full display, with lavish settings that juxtapose the emotional turmoil of the characters, serving as a reminder of the conflicting realities they navigate.

What It Takes captures the essence of Succession’s exploration of power, ambition, and familial loyalty. By weaving together the intricate threads of the Roy family's dynamics, personal ambitions, and corporate rivalries, the episode presents a multifaceted portrayal of what it means to strive for success in a world fraught with challenges. It invites viewers to ponder the true cost of ambition and the lengths to which individuals will go to secure their legacy, all while keeping them on the edge of their seats as the Roy family continues to spiral through the unpredictable landscape of their corporate empire.