Arcane Does Saphic Relationships Right

THIS IS AN OPINION PIECE, THE OPINIONS OF THE AUTHOR DO NOT REFLECT WHAT THE INQUIRER AS AN ORGANIZATION BELIEVES.

The depiction of sapphic relationships being represented in films is nothing new in media, but what makes Vi and Caitlyn Kiramman’s relationship so alluring and relatable to so many of the members in the LGBTQ+?

The majority of media portrayals of sapphic relationships are often over sexualised in order to appeal to straight men’s fetishes; as a result, they either prioritize physical intimacy over emotional closeness or follow the “bury your gay” trope, in which sapphic characters often met tragic ends. However Arcane differs in that they don’t confirm Vi and Cait’s relationship with a loud confession or kiss, but rather through their intimate and vulnerable dialogues and body language. Their relationship dives into such immense depth and subtlety, exploring themes of vulnerability, trust, support and emotional intimacy.

Source: Arcane

It is a known fact that Cait and Vi are polar opposites, this is no doubt since they originated from two very different worlds; Vi coming from Zaun, an underground city existing in a perpetual smogged twilight, a dark mirror compared to a picture perfect city of progress, Piltover. In spite of their differences, it is arguably because of their differences that they got so close to each other.

Their first encounter was filled with wariness and distrust, as they had preconceived notions about each other; Vi is guarded against everyone due to her traumatic past and encounters with enforcers, and with Cait being an enforcer it is only natural for Vi to hold up her guard. Throughout season 1, Vi and Cait’s life threatening encounters in the undercity naturally made them begin to trust and rely on each other. They had to have faith and trust in each other to have support one another since their very lives depended on it.

In “The Boy Saviour”, season 1 episode 7, Sevika ends up fighting Vi and almost downright killing her.Cait intervenes with a life-saving shot to stop Sevika from taking Vi’s life, leaving watchers on the edge of their seats, wondering if this is where Vi will ultimately die.If it wasn’t for the shot, Vi’s life could’ve ended right then and there. Cait’s act of defending Vi marks an incredibly important turning point between Vi and Cait. From one of grudging cooperation for their own personal goals into one of genuine friendship and camaraderie. Despite Cait not trusting Vi initially, she risked her life to save Vi, showcasing their dedication to each other, loyalty and most importantly trust in one another.

Source: Arcane

The fact that Vi, who has always been on her own due to being orphaned at a young age and being prosecuted for a crime she didn’t commit hardened and made her not to rely on anyone except herself. She willingly extends out her hand to allow Cait to help her up when she is on the verge of passing out is astounding as it reveals her physical and emotional vulnerabilities. Such a heartfelt moment only further emphasizes concepts of trust, partnership and resilience, making it standout compared to other scenes.

Season 1 episode 8 “Oil and Water”, Vi confides in Cait about her past with her younger sister Jinx. A rare vulnerable moment, cherished between two, accompanied with chaos as it ensues in the background with a harsh and unforgiving thunderstorm giving backdrop. Despite being incredibly independent and strong-willed, Vi never allowed anyone into her heart. This goes to show how Vi is not only sharing her pain, but also allowing Cait to enter the emotional wall she has built up over the years. As Cait develops into someone who Vi can rely on, the mellow and calm ambiance hints towards romantic undertones.

Aside from the dialogue, Vi laying so close to Cait represents that she is beginning to trust and find comfort in Cait’s proximity. You physically can’t be so close to someone unless you have a profound trust in them; Vi has enough faith in Cait enough to let down her guard. Warm lighting, bird’s eye angle, subdued atmosphere and positioning of Vi and Cait adds into such a raw and genuine scene. The quiet and intimate act of conversing with one another, is more powerful than any verbal confession or physical interaction.

From their witty and sarcastic jabs to each other to fleeting touchings of one anothers face to their downright emotionally charged conversations, Arcane has definitely outdone itself in representing these two amazing women wonderfully. Vi and Caitlyn Kiramman’s relationship is something that the media needs to take notes from. Stand proud for as what Arcane wrote is a masterpiece.