Severance

The most prominent example is the developing gay romantic relationship between 'innies' Irving Bailiff (John Turturro) and Burt Goodman (Christopher Walken), whose affection provides a tender counterpoint to Lumon's dehumanizing environment. Additionally, Mark Scout's sister, Devon Hale (Jen Tullock), is revealed to be queer, with the actress confirming that this was an intentional part of the character's backstory, stating Devon 'had dated people of all genders' before her current husband.

Psychological violence is a core element, such as employees being sent to the 'break room' for hours of psychological torture as punishment for disobedience. Physical violence includes Helly R.'s attempts at self-harm, notably when she threatens to cut off her fingers with a guillotine and a later attempt to commit suicide using an extension cable in an elevator, which is depicted as brief but clear and potentially upsetting. Season 2 reportedly features an intense fight scene and a bloody death where a character is fatally shot in the neck with a bolt gun, resulting in a 'rain of blood.'

Swearing, including 'sh*t' and 'f*ck,' is used occasionally throughout Season 1. However, a review of the first episode indicates 'very strong foul language,' with 26 profanities and obscenities, including '9 'f' words, 5 sh**s, 5 he**s, and 2 da**S,' suggesting a more pervasive presence of strong language from the outset.

The core concept of severance, a surgical procedure that physically divides a person's memories, is visually depicted and inherently disturbing. Characters experience severe psychological torment, notably in Lumon's 'break room,' where disobedient employees are subjected to hours of psychological torture. Themes of suicide and self-harm are central, with Helly R. making a clear suicide attempt at the end of Season 1, which comes with a content warning due to its upsetting nature.

A primary example is Helly R.'s repeated and defiant attempts to communicate with her 'outie' and to expose Lumon's unethical practices, directly violating corporate policy and facing severe repercussions. Dylan G. also demonstrates significant rebellion when he activates the 'Overtime Contingency,' risking his 'innie's' safety to provide critical information to the 'outies' and expose Lumon's operations.