A study released recently by the Sociological Research Center (CIS) reports that q44 percent of men in Spain believe equality policies go so far as to discriminate against men. Yet the conversation about feminist achievements is now echoed in audiovisual production as well. The final title True Detective: Polar Night, released two weeks ago on HBO Max and Movistar Plus+, has sparked debate over its portrayal and reception.
The fourth season of this legendary series reimagines the narrative with a feminine voice, guided by a showrunner from Mexico, Issa López, and featuring two prominent heroines, portrayed by Jodie Foster and Kali Reis. The season has been the target of a strong online backlash, characterized by a rapid stream of negative reviews on major review platforms such as Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb, where audience perspectives shape the discourse around the show.
Productions like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power have faced criticism over casting choices, while other projects, including those with LGBTQ+ characters, have become focal points for controversy. The show’s latest chapters, including the third episode, have been cited in broader debates about representation in big-budget fantasy and superhero genres. Critics and fans alike have discussed whether recent storytelling choices diverge from earlier iterations, including earlier seasons of the series and other contemporary productions.
In the case of True Detective: Polar Night, professional reviews show a mixed picture: Rotten Tomatoes indicates a high level of overall positivity, but fans often express greater dissatisfaction with the perceived direction of the series. The divergence between critic consensus and fan sentiment has become a common talking point in discussions about representation and narrative goals.
“Opressed lesbians”
Comments circulating on Rotten Tomatoes include phrases like “Too many female leaders,” “New tough heroines fail to impress in this snowbound chapter,” and “Another franchise moves away from its roots.” These remarks are sometimes read as a direct critique of female representation in the latest season. The discussion also notes the series’ grounding in Alaska, with its cast and storylines drawing on the region and its Indigenous communities.
Jodie Foster and Kali Reis portray female characters who are unapologetically frank about sex
Additional remarks include assertions that Foster’s acting stands out while other elements feel repetitive or out of step with contemporary audiences. Some fans argue that the show injects diversity, equity, and inclusion into almost every scene, comparing its impact to a cork stifling a great spectacle. Earlier seasons featured different configurations of the ensemble, leading to ongoing debates about how the series evolves while honoring its origins. Critics note that the shift toward female-led dynamics and contemporary sensibilities prompts a wider discussion about adaptation and audience expectations.
Issa López, the creator behind the new episodes, has attributed the wave of negative reviews to sexism among some fans. In a public post, López suggested that a surge of low ratings from certain Rotten Tomatoes accounts could be influenced by long-standing fans of the first season who felt unsettled by the new direction. Such remarks reflect the broader tension between change and continuity in beloved franchises.
Women who go beyond the norm
With two episodes released so far out of a planned six, Polar Night showcases two distinct, unconventional female characters. Foster’s character appears to dominate scenes with a commanding presence, sometimes pursuing provocative acts or bold decisions. Reis’ character is equally fearless, displaying a willingness to confront harassment and assert control in tense moments. The portrayal includes scenes where sexuality intersects with power, provoking strong reactions from viewers.
The dynamic starkly contrasts with the more traditional depictions of female leads in the series’ early seasons, where the emphasis often fell on male-dominated threads and the partners of the protagonists. The current arc raises questions about how gender and power are represented on screen and whether the new approach strengthens or dilutes the show’s original appeal. Four episodes remain to be seen, as audiences and critics alike await whether Polar Night can secure broader approval while staying true to its evolving vision.