Carter Perlmutter - “Fubar” character analysis
Netflix's FUBAR is a dynamic series that blends espionage, family drama, and high-stakes action. At the center of its intricate web of characters is Carter Perlmutter, a seemingly ordinary kindergarten teacher engaged to CIA agent Emma Brunner. Carter’s character, portrayed with nuanced charm by Jay Baruchel, serves as a vessel for exploring the themes of devotion, trust, and love. Simultaneously, he disrupts the traditional archetype of the devoted lover, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
The Devoted Lover
Carter embodies the archetype of the devoted lover, a character deeply in love with his partner and willing to do anything for her. His love for Emma is palpable, profound, and transcends the ordinary. It's a love that is romantic, supportive, and, most importantly, steadfast. Even when faced with Emma's infidelity, Carter's response is indicative of his profound love. Rather than reacting with anger or revenge, he handles the situation with maturity and grace, further solidifying his role as a devoted lover.
The characterization of Carter as a devoted lover contributes to the central theme of love and devotion within FUBAR. His character serves as a stark contrast to the world of espionage and betrayal that Emma inhabits. Despite the secrets and lies that surround him, Carter’s devotion remains constant, underscoring the dichotomy between the world of espionage and the everyday life he represents.
The Geeky Lover
FUBAR also introduces us to another facet of Carter’s personality - his geekiness. This attribute not only makes his character relatable but also adds a touch of humor to the narrative. Although this trait is often used to portray characters as socially awkward or less attractive, in Carter's case, it makes him endearing and provides a refreshing contrast to the typical, macho love interests often seen in espionage thrillers.
This geeky demeanor doesn't detract from his role as a devoted lover, but rather enriches it. It showcases that devotion and love are not restricted to certain archetypes and that even a geeky kindergarten teacher can exemplify these virtues. In doing so, FUBAR breaks down stereotypes and promotes a more inclusive understanding of love and devotion.
Disruption of the Devoted Lover Archetype
While Carter comfortably fits into the role of a devoted and geeky lover, his character disrupts this archetype as the narrative unfolds. When Emma’s infidelity is revealed, Carter experiences a significant shift. His trust in Emma shatters, leading him to break off their engagement. This decision disrupts his archetype of the devoted lover, demonstrating that his devotion has boundaries rooted in trust and respect.
Carter's reaction to Emma's betrayal introduces a valuable moral lesson into the narrative - that true love is not blind, but rather, it recognizes faults and requires mutual respect and honesty. This disruption of the devoted lover archetype adds a layer of realism to Carter's character, reminding viewers that love is complex and challenging.
Role in the Story and Themes
Carter's role as the unsuspecting civilian engaged to a CIA agent underpins the show's exploration of secrecy, trust, and betrayal. He is the unsuspecting party in a relationship riddled with secrets, which serves to highlight the deceit inherent in the world of espionage. The unraveling of these secrets and Carter's reactions to them become pivotal moments in the narrative, driving the story forward and keeping viewers engaged.
The fallout from Emma's infidelity and the subsequent end of their relationship underscores the theme of betrayal that runs throughout FUBAR. It serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of dishonesty, both in personal relationships and in the covert world of espionage1.
Moreover, Carter's story resonates with the show's theme of the consequences of secrets and lies. Emma's double life as a CIA agent remains hidden from Carter, shaping his narrative and the very foundation of their relationship. This secrecy not only impacts Carter but also the overall trajectory of the show, underscoring the detrimental effects of deceit and lies on personal relationships.
Lastly, Carter's character also contributes to the family theme that dominates FUBAR. His engagement to Emma makes him a part of her family dynamics, and his reactions and decisions influence the family’s trajectory. The fact that Carter's breakup with Emma triggers a series of events in the family narrative highlights his critical role in the story and the development of its themes1.
