HBO’s new finance show Industry restructures how we view finance and how it is depicted in the media. Former Investment bankers Mikey Down and Conrad Kay created the show and their finance past might be something the reason for the show’s authenticity.
The first time television creators work alongside a cast of powerful newcomers. In the words of actor Harry Lawtey: “I learned so much… the leads in the show we’re fairly inexperienced; this is kind of a life-changing project for us.” Industry is a powerful introduction to the talents of both the creators and the leading cast. The characters are written to show the complexities that come with life each character is multidimensional and as the show progresses the audience will better understand the complex realities each individual is navigating through. Industry is the product of powerful writing being brought to life by true thespians. Though the leading cast might be considered newcomers, their ability to bring life into the words of Down and Kay isn’t to be ignored.
With the writing of multidimensional characters, Robert is introduced to audiences with the quote: “It’s a marginal game about marginal gains.” Robert can easily be described as the life of the party and in many ways, the character functions as the glue that holds the graduates together. He has personal and individual relationships with each of the grads at Pierpoint & Co. Robert’s most important relationship is his friendship with Gus. The longstanding friendship began while the two were at Oxford before beginning their journey together at Pierpoint & Co. Their friendship holds a mirror to many of the complex social structures existing in and out of the work place. In many ways, they navigate the bank similarly both standing on the privilege of their prestigious education however, the nuances with privilege are explored through their relationship dynamic.
Lawtey’s humility along with the humility of the Industry cast is reassuring to see. The first episode is directed by Lena Dunham and it is clear that the collaborative effort between creatives created a powerful series. The raw talent brought together to make this series will lead to audiences falling in love with the characters and their storylines while learning more about finance and humanity.
HBO’s Industry premieres November 9th
