“Lessons in Chemistry" (2023) quickly gained online attention overnight and already competing in the prestigious events in the following year. The miniseries is an adaptation of Bonnie Garmus' homonymous novel from 2022, which was an instant bestseller according to The New York Times. The miniseries revolves around the chemist Elizabeth Zott, portrayed by Brie Larson, navigating the thriving landscape of the 1950s. The focus of this review is the deliberate use of the colour green throughout the Apple TV+ miniseries.
Over the course of the episodes, Elizabeth Zott is frequently seen in green costumes and surrounded by green props. This isn't arbitrary; green, being the colour of nature, environment, and life, holds particular significance in connection to the protagonist. As a scientist specializing in abiogenesis—the concept that life originated from non-life over 3.5 billion years ago on Earth—her professional pursuits align with the themes of nature and life. Moreover, it links with the miniseries’ approach to decode the complexity of chemistry and applying it to everyday life.
Despite being a nonconformist, Zott embodies traditional female traits of nurturing and caring, as seen in her interactions with her dog, Mad, and lab partner. Here, the colour green serves as a symbol of health, notably reflected in the protagonist's commentary on canned food.
Zott’s green versus Fran’s (Stephanie Koenig) shades of pink. First is a chemist versus the second is a secretary. The contrast of the colours link to the narrative. Pink is the traditional colour of femininity, in this regard, green represents the non-conformity. Regards the characters, Fran follows the traditional gender roles and expectations in the 1950s, pink-collar job (secretary, teachers, midwives, waitresses and nurses) and housewife, while Elizabeth is a master chemist constantly challenging the gender roles. Fran wears make-up and fragrances, while Zott is natural. Not only her professional path, but her active attitude against machismo and sexism in the workplace, marriage, and children. For example, her rebellion against the Miss Hastings Pageant and skirts on national television, which was the major mean of communication of the time.
The use of green extends beyond Zott to other characters, including Dr. Calvin Evans (Lewis Pullman). His nonconformist character, albeit with certain privileges, challenges traditional masculinity with traits of sensitivity, traumas, and unhealth practices like skipping meals.
Green, often associated with innovation and progress, becomes a powerful tool in the narrative. Zott, the master chemist, takes on a role in a TV cooking show, breaking norms by teaching more than just recipes. Her portrayal is powerful and positioned at the forefront, while male characters on the studio take secondary roles. She encourages and inspires her female spectators. Her television presenter role moved the broadcaster in hiring more secretaries.
Set against the backdrop of the transition from the 1950s to the 1960s, "Lessons in Chemistry" not only explores feminist themes but also touches on the Civil Rights Act through Harriet Sloane's plotline, bringing in elements of intersectionality.
The colour green, often associated with discomfort, serves as a thematic link in the miniseries. "Lessons in Chemistry" is a historical drama that strategically uses the colour green to engage the modern audience in contemporary feminist discussions, addressing relevant issues such as gender double standards, inequality, privilege, racism, mansplaining, sexual assault, and sex discrimination. The series prompts reflection, posing the recurring question of naming a female scientist beyond Marie Curie.
This deliberate challenge to society's historical oversight of women in science directly ties into the “Matilda Effect,” a term coined by historian Margaret Rossiter in 1993. It highlights the consistent erasure of female scientists' contributions in favour of their male counterparts. Named after suffragist Matilda Joslyn Gage, who protested the false narrative that women lacked inventive genius, this effect underscores the very issues Elizabeth Zott faces throughout the series—fighting for recognition in a field dominated by men.
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