8+ Netflix's Dorian Gray: Haunting Picture Show


8+ Netflix's Dorian Gray: Haunting Picture Show

The phrase denotes the potential adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s novel, The Image of Dorian Grey, into a visible format meant for distribution on the Netflix streaming platform. It suggests a display adaptation of the gothic and philosophical novel that explores themes of self-importance, morality, and the corrupting affect of hedonism by means of the story of a person whose portrait ages whereas he stays youthful.

The difference of traditional literature, akin to Wilde’s work, for streaming companies presents a number of potential advantages. It introduces canonical tales to new audiences, probably inspiring additional engagement with the unique textual content. Streaming diversifications also can supply recent interpretations of established narratives, exploring new thematic angles or visible types. Traditionally, diversifications of The Image of Dorian Grey have different broadly of their constancy to the supply materials and their vital reception, making every new iteration a topic of appreciable curiosity.

The next sections will discover the particular challenges and alternatives inherent in adapting this specific novel for a contemporary streaming viewers, specializing in potential casting decisions, narrative modifications, and the general aesthetic course such a venture may take.

1. Trendy Viewers Attraction

The relevance of adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for up to date viewers hinges considerably on its capacity to resonate with fashionable sensibilities. A profitable adaptation necessitates a nuanced understanding of present social values and cultural traits to make sure the storys themes and characters are each partaking and thought-provoking.

  • Ethical Complexity and Anti-Heroes

    Modern audiences usually gravitate in direction of characters with ethical ambiguity, quite than easy heroes or villains. An adaptation should discover Dorian’s flaws and motivations with depth, avoiding simplistic judgements and permitting viewers to grapple with the complexities of his decisions. This method might mirror the success of different morally gray protagonists standard in streaming content material.

  • Exploration of Identification and Self-Picture

    Trendy society is more and more targeted on identification, self-image, and the pressures of societal expectations, notably inside the context of social media. The Image of Dorian Grey presents a possibility to look at these themes critically, exploring the harmful penalties of prioritizing look and exterior validation over interior integrity. This focus aligns with prevalent discussions about psychological well being and physique picture.

  • Relevance of Social Commentary

    Wilde’s novel offers social commentary on the superficiality of Victorian excessive society. A contemporary adaptation might replace this commentary to replicate up to date points akin to celeb tradition, influencer advertising and marketing, and the pursuit of unattainable magnificence requirements. This requires cautious adaptation to keep away from being preachy whereas nonetheless highlighting the risks of a society obsessive about appearances.

  • Queer Subtext and Illustration

    The novel incorporates important queer subtext, reflecting the social constraints and coded language of Wilde’s period. A contemporary adaptation has the chance to discover these themes explicitly, providing genuine illustration of queer experiences and difficult conventional notions of sexuality and identification. This illustration can add layers of depth and relevance to the narrative.

By addressing these aspects, a possible “Netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation can faucet into up to date issues and values, making it greater than only a retelling of a traditional story. It will probably change into a related and interesting exploration of timeless themes, sparking significant conversations about magnificence, morality, and the human situation within the twenty first century.

2. Casting Issues

The choice of actors for a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation is paramount to its success. Casting decisions is not going to solely decide the visible illustration of the characters but in addition affect the viewers’s notion of the story’s themes and ethical complexities. Securing actors who can embody the nuanced traits of every function is crucial for a compelling and trustworthy adaptation.

  • Dorian Grey: Magnificence and Corruption

    The actor solid as Dorian Grey should possess putting bodily magnificence, able to fascinating each the characters inside the narrative and the viewers. Crucially, the actor should additionally be capable to painting the character’s gradual ethical decay and interior turmoil because the portrait displays his sins. The actor’s efficiency must reveal the dichotomy between Dorian’s exterior look and his inside corruption. Examples embody actors identified for enjoying charismatic but flawed characters, akin to these in “Breaking Dangerous” or “Home of Playing cards”.

  • Lord Henry Wotton: Wit and Affect

    Lord Henry Wotton requires an actor adept at delivering Wildean wit and philosophical cynicism. The actor should convey Lord Henry’s manipulative allure and his profound affect on Dorian’s worldview. This function calls for an actor who can painting mental superiority whereas hinting at a deeper, maybe self-destructive, hedonism. A comparable instance could possibly be present in actors identified for portraying crafty and charismatic mentors, just like roles in “Sherlock” or “The Queen’s Gambit”.

  • Basil Hallward: Idealism and Obsession

    Basil Hallward’s portrayal necessitates an actor able to embodying each creative idealism and an obsessive fascination with Dorian. The actor should convey Basil’s real admiration for Dorian’s magnificence and his rising unease as he witnesses Dorian’s ethical decline. This function requires an actor who can painting vulnerability and creative ardour, just like portrayals of artists in movies like “Frida” or “Loving Vincent”.

  • Supporting Characters: Depth and Authenticity

    Casting for supporting roles akin to Sibyl Vane and numerous members of Victorian society additionally calls for cautious consideration. Actors should be capable to painting the social mores and emotional complexities of the period, contributing to the general authenticity of the difference. These roles, although smaller, are vital for establishing the social context and highlighting the results of Dorian’s actions. Examples might be present in interval dramas like “The Crown” or “Downton Abbey”.

The success of any “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation is inextricably linked to the ability and suitability of its solid. Mismatched casting can undermine the story’s themes and diminish its influence. Subsequently, the casting course of should prioritize actors who can authentically embody the characters’ complexities, making certain a compelling and trustworthy portrayal of Wilde’s masterpiece.

3. Visible Interpretation

Visible interpretation is a foundational aspect of any cinematic adaptation, and its significance is amplified when contemplating a hypothetical “netflix image of dorian grey.” The novel’s central conceit, the visible manifestation of Dorian’s ethical corruption in his portrait, necessitates a compelling and modern visible technique. The success of the difference hinges on successfully translating the summary idea of interior decay right into a tangible, visually arresting kind. Previous diversifications have approached this problem with various levels of success, using methods starting from delicate growing older results to grotesque transformations. The particular visible method chosen instantly impacts the viewers’s understanding of Dorian’s descent and the results of his actions. A poorly executed visible aspect dangers undermining the story’s core thematic issues. For instance, a low-budget or unconvincing portrayal of the portrait might distract from the narrative’s exploration of self-importance and morality.

A possible “netflix image of dorian grey” might leverage fashionable visible results expertise to create a portrait that evolves realistically over time. This might contain delicate modifications within the portrait’s expression, steadily reflecting Dorian’s more and more cynical and merciless demeanor. The usage of lighting, coloration palettes, and composition might additional emphasize the distinction between Dorian’s youthful look and the portrait’s deteriorating state. Moreover, the difference might discover the portrait’s visible influence on Dorian himself, displaying his rising horror and obsession with its reflection of his true self. This could possibly be achieved by means of subjective digital camera angles and dreamlike sequences that visualize Dorian’s interior turmoil. The visible interpretation additionally extends to the general aesthetic of the movie, with manufacturing design, costumes, and cinematography contributing to the decadent and gothic ambiance of the story.

In conclusion, the visible interpretation of The Image of Dorian Grey for a streaming platform like Netflix presents each alternatives and challenges. The developments in visible results present the potential for a really compelling and disturbing portrayal of Dorian’s ethical decay. Nevertheless, the visible parts have to be rigorously built-in into the narrative, serving to reinforce the story’s themes quite than overshadow them. The difference’s success relies on a cohesive visible technique that successfully interprets the novel’s central metaphor right into a visually partaking and emotionally resonant expertise. The visible decisions instantly influence the viewers’s understanding and engagement with the story’s exploration of self-importance, morality, and the corrupting affect of unchecked need.

4. Thematic Relevance

Thematic relevance acts as a vital element of any potential “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. The diploma to which the story’s underlying themes resonate with up to date audiences instantly influences the difference’s success. An adaptation that fails to attach with fashionable issues dangers changing into a dated or irrelevant train in interval drama. The cause-and-effect relationship is evident: sturdy thematic resonance results in elevated viewers engagement and significant appreciation, whereas an absence of thematic relevance diminishes the difference’s influence. As an illustration, diversifications of traditional literature that efficiently spotlight enduring social or psychological truths are inclined to fare higher than those who merely recreate the narrative with out exploring its deeper meanings. The sensible significance of understanding this lies within the want for cautious adaptation of the supply materials to emphasise elements that align with present societal discussions and values.

The significance of thematic relevance might be illustrated by contemplating profitable diversifications of different traditional works. Diversifications of Shakespeare, for instance, usually emphasize common themes of energy, ambition, and love, resonating with audiences throughout centuries. Equally, a “netflix image of dorian grey” might spotlight themes of self-obsession, the pursuit of unattainable magnificence requirements, and the corrosive results of social media tradition. Adapting these parts thoughtfully and explicitly connects the narrative to present-day issues, making the story extra compelling and thought-provoking. This requires a deliberate effort to translate the novel’s Victorian-era social commentary into a up to date context. The exploration of identification, ethical decay, and the pressures of societal expectations are themes that stay powerfully related and supply avenues for in-depth evaluation and interpretation in a contemporary adaptation.

In conclusion, thematic relevance isn’t merely an non-obligatory add-on however a elementary requirement for a profitable “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. By specializing in themes that resonate with fashionable audiencessuch as the risks of superficiality, the complexities of identification, and the corrupting affect of unchecked desiresthe adaptation can transcend its historic setting and supply a well timed and significant commentary on up to date society. The problem lies in putting a stability between constancy to the unique textual content and the necessity to adapt the story for a brand new technology. This necessitates a deep understanding of each the novel’s core themes and the prevailing issues of contemporary audiences.

5. Ethical Ambiguity

Ethical ambiguity is central to understanding the enduring enchantment and potential influence of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. The novel’s energy lies in its exploration of characters and conditions that resist simple categorization as both good or evil, forcing audiences to confront advanced moral questions.

  • Dorian Grey’s Descent

    Dorian’s character arc exemplifies ethical ambiguity. Initially offered as an harmless and exquisite youth, he steadily succumbs to hedonism and corruption. The difference ought to keep away from portraying him as a easy villain; as a substitute, it should discover the influences that result in his downfall, together with Lord Henry’s cynical philosophy and the societal pressures that prioritize magnificence over morality. An efficient portrayal requires illustrating the erosion of Dorian’s conscience, showcasing his inside conflicts and the rationalizations he employs to justify his actions.

  • Lord Henry Wotton’s Affect

    Lord Henry’s character embodies a special aspect of ethical ambiguity. His wit and allure masks a deeply amoral worldview. Whereas he doesn’t instantly commit the identical acts as Dorian, his cynical pronouncements and manipulative affect play a vital function in Dorian’s corruption. The difference ought to discover the complexities of Lord Henry’s character, inspecting whether or not he’s merely an observer of human nature or an energetic agent of ethical decay. His motivations, whether or not pushed by mental curiosity or a need for private gratification, ought to be rigorously thought-about.

  • The Portrait as a Reflection of Ambiguity

    The portrait itself represents ethical ambiguity. It serves as a visible file of Dorian’s sins, nevertheless it additionally raises questions concerning the nature of magnificence, morality, and the connection between look and actuality. The difference should successfully painting the portrait’s evolution, showcasing not solely its bodily transformation but in addition its symbolic illustration of Dorian’s interior state. The altering portrait challenges viewers to think about whether or not outward magnificence can really masks interior corruption, and whether or not artwork can precisely replicate the complexities of the human soul.

  • Societal Complicity

    The novel’s depiction of Victorian society highlights the collective ethical ambiguity of the period. The characters’ obsession with appearances, their hypocrisy, and their willingness to show a blind eye to Dorian’s habits all contribute to his downfall. The difference ought to discover the societal context that allows Dorian’s actions, inspecting the methods through which the pursuit of enjoyment and the concern of scandal contribute to ethical decay. This exploration requires depicting the social pressures and expectations that form particular person habits and contribute to a tradition of ethical compromise.

These aspects of ethical ambiguity are important to a compelling “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. By exploring the complexities of Dorian’s character, Lord Henry’s affect, the portrait’s symbolism, and the societal context, the difference can supply a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the enduring battle between magnificence and morality. The difference should keep away from easy ethical judgements, as a substitute encouraging viewers to grapple with the complexities of the characters’ decisions and the results of their actions.

6. Supply Materials Constancy

The idea of supply materials constancy bears important weight when evaluating the potential success and significant reception of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. Adherence to Oscar Wilde’s authentic textual content features as a vital determinant in how the difference is perceived by each literary purists and basic audiences. A excessive diploma of constancy can result in popularity of respecting the creator’s imaginative and prescient and preserving the novel’s nuanced themes. Conversely, important deviations from the supply materials can alienate viewers aware of the unique work and lift questions concerning the adaptation’s goal and creative integrity. The cause-and-effect relationship is clear: deliberate alterations to plot, characterization, or thematic emphasis can basically reshape the narrative and alter its meant message. The significance of supply materials constancy lies in its capacity to keep up the integrity of Wilde’s advanced exploration of magnificence, morality, and the corrupting affect of societal pressures.

Traditionally, diversifications of The Image of Dorian Grey have different significantly of their faithfulness to the unique textual content. Some diversifications have hewed intently to the novel’s plot and dialogue, whereas others have taken important liberties, modernizing the setting, altering character relationships, or introducing new subplots. The success of those diversifications has been blended, with some reaching vital acclaim for his or her modern interpretations and others going through criticism for straying too removed from Wilde’s imaginative and prescient. For instance, a hypothetical adaptation that considerably alters Dorian’s motivations or Lord Henry’s philosophical cynicism dangers undermining the novel’s central themes and diluting its commentary on Victorian society. Equally, modernizing the setting with out cautious consideration of the social and cultural context can diminish the story’s influence. A balanced method requires considerate consideration of which parts of the supply materials are important to the story’s core message and which elements might be tailored or reinterpreted for a contemporary viewers. The sensible software of this understanding entails cautious scriptwriting, considerate casting decisions, and a transparent articulation of the difference’s creative targets.

In conclusion, supply materials constancy represents a vital issue within the reception and success of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. Whereas a point of adaptation is inevitable when translating a novel into a visible medium, sustaining the integrity of Wilde’s authentic imaginative and prescient is crucial for preserving the story’s thematic depth and cultural significance. The problem lies in putting a stability between respecting the supply materials and making a recent and interesting adaptation for a contemporary viewers. This requires cautious consideration of which parts of the novel are indispensable to its core message and which elements might be tailored or reinterpreted with out compromising the story’s integrity. In the end, the success of a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation will depend upon its capacity to honor Wilde’s legacy whereas additionally providing a compelling and related interpretation for up to date viewers.

7. Potential Controversies

Adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for a up to date platform like Netflix invitations a spectrum of potential controversies. The supply materials’s themes of ethical corruption, hedonism, and aestheticism, mixed with the sensitivities of contemporary audiences, necessitate cautious navigation to keep away from producing detrimental reactions and guarantee accountable storytelling.

  • Exploitation and Consent

    The novel incorporates parts of manipulation and potential exploitation, notably in Dorian’s relationships with Sibyl Vane and different characters. A contemporary adaptation might face scrutiny concerning the portrayal of energy dynamics and the depiction of consent. Cautious consideration have to be given to how these relationships are depicted to keep away from perpetuating dangerous stereotypes or minimizing the gravity of exploitation. As an illustration, scenes depicting Dorian’s interactions with Sibyl ought to be dealt with with sensitivity, making certain that her company and vulnerability are revered.

  • Glorification of Hedonism

    The central theme of pursuing pleasure with out consequence could possibly be interpreted as a glorification of hedonism, probably sparking criticism for selling irresponsible habits. A accountable adaptation ought to critically look at the results of Dorian’s decisions, highlighting the harmful nature of unchecked need and the significance of ethical accountability. This might contain emphasizing the psychological toll of Dorian’s actions and the detrimental influence on these round him.

  • Visible Depiction of Decadence

    The novel’s decadent ambiance and descriptions of lavish existence could possibly be interpreted as selling materialism and extra. A contemporary adaptation must keep away from fetishizing wealth and privilege, as a substitute specializing in the vacancy and ethical decay that usually accompany such existence. The visible portrayal of decadence ought to serve to underscore the superficiality and supreme unsatisfying nature of Dorian’s pursuit of enjoyment.

  • Queer Subtext and Illustration

    Whereas the novel incorporates important queer subtext, the particular illustration of LGBTQ+ characters and relationships might change into a supply of controversy. An adaptation should be certain that queer characters are portrayed with respect and authenticity, avoiding stereotypes or dangerous tropes. Moreover, the exploration of Dorian’s relationships with Lord Henry and Basil Hallward must be dealt with with sensitivity, acknowledging the potential for homoerotic interpretations whereas avoiding exploitative or sensationalized depictions.

These potential controversies underscore the necessity for a nuanced and accountable method to adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for a contemporary viewers. A profitable adaptation should interact with the novel’s advanced themes in a considerate method, avoiding simplistic interpretations and making certain that the story’s ethical message resonates with up to date values. Failure to deal with these potential points might lead to important backlash and undermine the difference’s creative and social worth.

8. Streaming Format Influence

The streaming format exerts a big affect on the potential adaptation of The Image of Dorian Grey for Netflix. The episodic nature and binge-watching tradition related to streaming platforms necessitate cautious consideration of narrative construction, pacing, and character improvement. A movie adaptation, constrained by a restricted runtime, requires a condensed and targeted method. Conversely, a streaming sequence permits for a extra expansive exploration of the novel’s themes and characters, allowing larger nuance and complexity.

The streaming format’s influence manifests in a number of key areas. Character arcs might be prolonged and deepened, offering alternatives to discover Dorian’s ethical decline in larger element. Subplots and secondary characters, usually omitted or truncated in movie diversifications, might be given larger prominence. The episodic construction permits for cliffhangers and narrative threads that keep viewer engagement throughout a number of installments. Moreover, the accessibility of streaming platforms expands the potential viewers for The Image of Dorian Grey, introducing Wilde’s work to a brand new technology of viewers. Nevertheless, this additionally necessitates a level of modernization and adaptation to resonate with up to date sensibilities, probably resulting in deviations from the supply materials.

In conclusion, the streaming format presents each alternatives and challenges for a “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. The flexibility to broaden the narrative and discover its themes in larger depth is a big benefit. Nevertheless, the necessity to adapt the story for a contemporary viewers and keep viewer engagement throughout a number of episodes requires cautious planning and execution. The success of the difference hinges on successfully leveraging the streaming format’s distinctive traits whereas remaining true to the spirit and themes of Wilde’s authentic novel. This entails putting a stability between constancy to the supply materials and the calls for of a up to date streaming viewers.

Often Requested Questions

This part addresses frequent queries and misconceptions surrounding the hypothetical adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s The Image of Dorian Grey for the Netflix streaming platform. The next questions and solutions intention to supply readability on numerous elements of the potential venture.

Query 1: Is a Netflix adaptation of The Image of Dorian Grey formally confirmed?

As of the present date, no official announcement has been made by Netflix concerning the manufacturing or improvement of a Image of Dorian Grey adaptation. Discussions and articles surrounding this matter stay speculative and primarily based on the potential enchantment and suitability of the novel for the streaming service.

Query 2: What challenges exist in adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for a contemporary viewers?

A number of challenges current themselves. These embody balancing constancy to the supply materials with the necessity to resonate with up to date sensibilities, addressing the novel’s themes of hedonism and ethical corruption responsibly, and navigating potential controversies surrounding LGBTQ+ illustration and exploitation.

Query 3: How may a Netflix adaptation differ from earlier movie variations?

A streaming sequence format permits for a extra expansive exploration of the novel’s themes, characters, and subplots in comparison with the constraints of a function movie. This might result in a deeper examination of Dorian’s ethical decay, Lord Henry’s affect, and the societal context of the story.

Query 4: What are the important thing thematic parts a Netflix adaptation ought to emphasize?

A profitable adaptation ought to emphasize the timeless themes of self-obsession, the pursuit of unattainable magnificence requirements, the corrupting affect of societal pressures, and the results of unchecked need. These themes retain their relevance in up to date society and supply alternatives for significant commentary.

Query 5: How essential is casting to the success of a possible adaptation?

Casting is paramount. The actor portraying Dorian Grey should possess the charisma and wonder to captivate viewers whereas additionally conveying the character’s gradual ethical decay. Equally, the actors portraying Lord Henry and Basil Hallward should embody the complexities of their respective roles.

Query 6: What visible parts are essential for successfully portraying the story’s central metaphor?

The visible illustration of Dorian’s portrait is crucial. Trendy visible results expertise might be leveraged to create a compelling and disturbing portrayal of the portrait’s evolution, reflecting Dorian’s interior corruption and serving as a visible illustration of his ethical decline.

These FAQs intention to make clear the present standing and potential concerns surrounding a hypothetical “netflix image of dorian grey” adaptation. Additional developments will depend upon Netflix’s future programming choices.

The dialogue now transitions to inspecting comparable literary diversifications which have discovered success on streaming platforms, offering context and potential fashions for adapting Wilde’s novel.

Issues for a “Netflix Image of Dorian Grey” Adaptation

This part outlines essential concerns for a profitable adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s novel for Netflix. Addressing these factors can improve narrative influence and viewers engagement.

Tip 1: Emphasize Trendy Thematic Resonance: Prioritize themes related to up to date audiences. Discover the risks of social media-driven self-obsession, the stress of unattainable magnificence requirements, and the results of ethical compromise in a digital age.

Tip 2: Nuance Character Morality: Keep away from simplistic portrayals of fine versus evil. Develop Dorian Grey as a posh character formed by exterior influences and inside conflicts. Lord Henry Wotton’s cynicism ought to be portrayed as a catalyst for Dorian’s decisions, not as pure malice.

Tip 3: Prioritize Visible Storytelling: The portrait’s visible transformation is paramount. Make the most of superior visible results to depict its decay realistically, reflecting Dorian’s interior corruption and the psychological influence of his actions. Combine visible cues inside Dorian’s environment and interactions to additional spotlight the disparity between his look and his ethical state.

Tip 4: Handle Queer Subtext with Sensitivity: Explicitly discover the queer subtext current in Wilde’s novel whereas avoiding dangerous stereotypes. Guarantee genuine and respectful illustration of LGBTQ+ characters and relationships, contributing to a extra inclusive and nuanced narrative.

Tip 5: Steadiness Constancy and Innovation: Respect the supply materials’s integrity whereas adapting it for a streaming viewers. Retain important plot factors and thematic parts, however take into account modernizing the setting and character dynamics to reinforce relevance and accessibility.

Tip 6: Handle Potential Controversies Head-On: Thoughtfully deal with probably controversial themes akin to exploitation, hedonism, and ethical decay. Keep away from glorifying irresponsible habits and emphasize the results of unchecked need. Make sure that depictions of energy imbalances and consent are dealt with with sensitivity and respect.

Tip 7: Leverage the Streaming Format: Make the most of the episodic construction of a streaming sequence to broaden character arcs, discover subplots, and construct suspense. Craft compelling cliffhangers and narrative threads to keep up viewer engagement throughout a number of episodes.

Addressing these concerns can maximize the potential for a profitable adaptation, leading to a thought-provoking and visually compelling sequence that resonates with up to date audiences.

The concluding part will summarize the important thing parts required to create a “Netflix Image of Dorian Grey” adaptation that’s each trustworthy to the supply materials and related to fashionable viewers.

Conclusion

The previous evaluation has explored the potential and challenges inherent in adapting The Image of Dorian Grey for the Netflix streaming platform. Key areas of consideration embody thematic relevance, casting decisions, visible interpretation, ethical ambiguity, supply materials constancy, potential controversies, and the influence of the streaming format. Every of those parts calls for cautious consideration to make sure a profitable adaptation that resonates with fashionable audiences whereas remaining true to the spirit of Oscar Wilde’s authentic work. The “netflix image of dorian grey,” if realized, would require a fragile stability between respecting the supply materials and modernizing its themes for up to date viewers.

The enduring enchantment of The Image of Dorian Grey lies in its timeless exploration of self-importance, morality, and the corrupting affect of unchecked need. A profitable adaptation for Netflix wouldn’t solely introduce this traditional story to a brand new technology but in addition spark significant conversations concerning the moral implications of pursuing pleasure and the significance of interior integrity. Additional improvement hinges on a dedication to accountable storytelling, nuanced character portrayals, and a visually compelling illustration of Dorian Grey’s tragic descent.