I have a confession to make: I’m obsessed with the HBO series True Blood. The show has all of the elements I need: it’s witty, hypersexual, gruesome, and extremely progressive. However, what’s most satisfyingly shocking is the way in which the show promotes a gay agenda. The subtext of the show creates a link between vampires and the gay community. For example, the vampires in this world are tired of hiding from society and pretending to be something they’re not, so they have decided to “come out” (as they refer to it on the show). This has created an uproar from the religious right who claim that the vampires are less-than-human and will taint their children and the church. On the other side, the left adamantly defends these creatures, insisting that they deserve the same civil rights as humans. Further, there is some hinting at the legalization of human/vampire marriage (ahem–remind you of any current political battles?). Another bold move is the fact that there is a gay, black character, Lafayette, who shares an onscreen interracial kiss with one of his “clients” in Season 1. This is pretty groundbreaking stuff, considering the mainstream’s usual heteronormative leanings.

Now this is all well and great, but what of a feminist agenda? Unfortunately, the show doesn’t have one–at least not from what I’ve seen. One issue I have is the show’s treatment of women, particularly the principal character Sookie. Unlike her feminist predecessor Buffy who was intelligent, sexy, and kicked ass,  Sookie is only sexy and… well, helpless. In fact, she has two men constantly competing for her attention, all-the-while trying to “protect” her (and her innocence?) from the supernatural world that they inhabit. Sure, she has mind-reading capabilities, but physically she is useless.

Another problem I see is the extensive focus the show places on Sookie’s virginity (and loss thereof). Sookie falls for Bill, a vampire who is 150 years her senior, and much of the kink on the show comes from the sexual tension between the two. Now believe me, I find that aspect to be quite a turn on. It’s just that Bill is such a traditional protector and father figure that he hardly gives Sookie a chance to think and act for herself.

As a feminist I’m often torn by these situations. While I enjoy the show and it’s subversive commentary, I still dislike the vulnerability of the main female character. Perhaps this will change as the series unravels, but something tells me it won’t. A’la Twilight.