The series finale of HBO’s Succession, titled “With Open Eyes,” clocks in at a substantial 88 minutes (1 hour and 28 minutes). This extended runtime allowed for a fitting culmination of the Roy family’s tumultuous journey, providing ample space for the power struggles, emotional reckonings, and shocking decisions that defined the show.
A Deep Dive into “With Open Eyes”
Succession‘s ending was highly anticipated, and the extended runtime was crucial for delivering a satisfying, albeit divisive, resolution to the many complex storylines. The length allowed the writers to explore the consequences of the preceding episodes’ actions, delve into the characters’ internal conflicts, and offer a nuanced portrayal of the shifting power dynamics within Waystar RoyCo and the Roy siblings’ relationships. The extra time wasn’t just padding; it was used to paint a richer, more complete picture of the aftermath of Logan Roy’s death and the subsequent battle for control.
Why the Extra Minutes Mattered
The series finale of Succession was not just another episode; it was the culmination of four seasons of intricate plotting, character development, and high-stakes drama. The longer runtime afforded the creative team the opportunity to:
- Develop the Characters’ Arcs: Allowing for a more nuanced and believable conclusion to the individual journeys of Kendall, Shiv, and Roman.
- Explore the Themes: Providing ample time to unpack the show’s central themes of power, family, ambition, and legacy.
- Deliver a Satisfying Conclusion: Granting the narrative the space it needed to address lingering questions and tie up loose ends (or, in true Succession fashion, deliberately leave some untied).
- Create a Memorable Experience: The length of the episode contributed to its overall impact, making it a truly unforgettable viewing experience.
Your Burning Succession Finale Questions Answered
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Succession series finale:
FAQ 1: Did the extended runtime impact the pacing of the episode?
The extended runtime allowed for a deliberately paced narrative. While some viewers may have felt moments were slow, the pacing was designed to build tension and allow for moments of quiet introspection amidst the drama. It avoided feeling rushed, letting key scenes breathe. The considered pacing was integral to the finality it delivered.
FAQ 2: Was the finale longer than other Succession episodes?
Yes, significantly. Most episodes of Succession typically run between 55 and 70 minutes. At 88 minutes, “With Open Eyes” was by far the longest episode of the entire series.
FAQ 3: Why did HBO decide to make the finale so long?
HBO recognized the significance of the series finale and allowed the creative team the necessary runtime to fully realize their vision. The decision likely stemmed from a desire to provide a comprehensive and impactful conclusion to a critically acclaimed and commercially successful show.
FAQ 4: Did the actors know the exact ending and length well in advance?
While actors generally have a sense of the overall direction of their characters, the specific details and the precise runtime of the finale were likely kept under wraps until closer to filming. Showrunner Jesse Armstrong is known for his meticulous planning and control over the narrative.
FAQ 5: What were the most crucial scenes that benefited from the longer runtime?
Several scenes benefited significantly from the extended runtime. These included:
- The pivotal vote at the GoJo board meeting.
- The emotional final scenes between the Roy siblings.
- The nuanced portrayal of Tom Wambsgans’ ascension to CEO.
- The quiet moments of reflection for Kendall and his future.
FAQ 6: Did the length contribute to the divisive reaction to the finale?
Possibly. While many praised the extended runtime for allowing a more complete story, some viewers felt the pacing was too slow or that certain plot points were underdeveloped, despite the length. The length simply amplified the feeling regardless if that emotion was positive or negative.
FAQ 7: Where can I watch the Succession finale?
The Succession finale, along with all previous episodes of the series, is available to stream on HBO Max (now simply Max). It is also available for purchase on various digital platforms.
FAQ 8: Will there be a director’s cut of the finale with even more footage?
There are currently no confirmed plans for a director’s cut of the Succession finale. However, given the popularity of the series, it’s not entirely out of the realm of possibility in the future. It remains unlikely.
FAQ 9: How does the length of the finale compare to other acclaimed HBO drama finales?
The Succession finale is comparable in length to some other acclaimed HBO drama finales. For example, the Six Feet Under finale was also a similar length. HBO often allows extra time for series finales of its most prestigious shows.
FAQ 10: Did the runtime affect the production budget of the episode?
Yes, the extended runtime likely increased the production budget due to factors such as additional filming days, editing time, and post-production work. Longer episodes require more resources.
FAQ 11: Besides the length, what made the Succession finale so memorable?
Beyond its length, the Succession finale was memorable for its shocking plot twists, powerful performances from the cast, and thought-provoking exploration of themes such as ambition, family, and legacy. The raw emotion and unresolved nature of some characters also made it impactful.
FAQ 12: What is the legacy of the Succession finale, given its length and content?
The Succession finale has solidified the show’s place as one of the greatest television dramas of all time. Its willingness to subvert expectations, deliver complex characters, and explore uncomfortable truths has resonated with audiences and critics alike. The length of the final episode has served as an exclamation point on a complex, well-wrought story. The runtime afforded it the time to become truly legendary.