Our Flag Means Death Is A Brave Subversion Of Queerbaiting

thegamer.com:

I’m kicking myself for not watching Our Flag Means Death sooner. My outward fascination with the swashbuckling romantic comedy began after seeing fanart from Molly Ostertag, only for the show’s fanbase to grow increasingly vocal as the first season came to an end and the relationship between Stede Bonnet and Captain Blackbeard took centre stage. There is no sign of renewal just yet despite this being one of the most progressive mainstream comedies I’ve seen emerge in quite some time. A crime I say, to the plank with you!

The relationship between Taika Watiti’s Blackbeard and Rhy Darby’s Bonnet isn’t a cliffhanger to conclude the finale, but a fundamental part of the show’s narrative as both characters grow and accept who they are. Piracy - a typically masculine occupation known for murder and pillaging - is provided a heartfelt warmth throughout the show’s 10 episodes with a cast of characters across the LGBTQ+ spectrum who are never afraid to show their vulnerable side. Kisses, hugs, and honest conversations about emotions aren’t uncommon, but are always juxtaposed with playful subversions of tropes we’ve come to associate with pirate fiction. Every episode is a joy filled with sharp dialogue and bright ideas.

Related: Amphibia More Than Delivered With All In, It Set A New Benchmark

When it comes to exploring queer themes in shows like this, we often see key relationships relegated to supporting characters as they receive development in tertiary arcs while the main story is thrust forward completely unaware of their existence. We’ve grown used to it even as more and more shows in the modern era like Heartstopper and Sex Education tell queer stories without compromise. Our Flag Means Death joins them and never once holds