I didn't expect The Studio's 'The War' to get so relatable, and here's why

The Studio on Apple TV+ is barely a month old, but it has already offered some of the finest writing on television in 2025. The satire runs deep and rings true to the actual screenwriters and studio executives who work in the studio system. A few months ago, Sam Mendes and Armando Iannucci's The Franchise did something similar to critique Hollywood's obsession with superhero franchises, where scripts are often written as afterthoughts. The Apple TV+ show takes a look at the industry as a whole and examines the dire state of the studios at present.

Seth Rogen's Matt Remick presents the kind of studio head who loves cinema but can't afford to make it in exchange for his cushy position at the studio. So, in this dilemma, he makes decisions based on the profitability of a project instead of its creative aptitude. He prefers predictable patterns and established formulae over fresh creative talent that can bring something new and original. The recent episode titled The War explores this conundrum between art and commerce, but through a chaotic argument between two other characters.

The fifth episode shows senior executive Sal Saperstein (Ike Barinholtz) and Quinn Hackett (Chase Sui Wonders) fighting to get two projects made through two different creative directions. Whether you're young or old, you will find something to relate to in their hysterical fight.

Disclaimer: This article contains the author's opinion. Reader's discretion is advised.

What happens in The Studio's 'The War'?

The War shows Sal and Quinn trying to get their respective projects greenlit by the studio. Sal wants to bring Smiledirector Parker Finn on board to direct a version of his film, titled Wink. In this version, the characters die after seeing someone wink instead of a wicked smile. He thinks Parker Finn is the best person to direct it since he has already directed two successful movies based on a similar slasher storyline. However, Quinn hopes to bring Owen Kline on board with her slasher idea.

Instead of relying on a formula, Quinn hopes to get Owen's film made. However, that's a hard sell since Owen hasn't established himself as a commercial director. His directorial debut was at Cannes, but that is immaterial to a studio that hopes to ensure fewer risks and more profits. Still, determined to get this film made, Quinn sabotages Sal's pitch for Wink. So, Sal retaliates by sabotaging hers. He scares Owen with impending studio pressure if his film doesn't do well.

Throughout the episode, Sal and Quinn engage in a back-and-forth sabotaging war where they are desperate to one-up each other. Quinn steals the keys to Sal's golf cart and parks it in his usual parking spot just when Parker Finn arrives at the studio. Their heated argument eventually destroys a set for another project. Quinn plans to throw Sal under the bus for this issue, but eventually strikes a bargain. It helps her to get her films made as an executive.

The Studio's 'The War' gets so relatable: Here's why

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Quinn's journey is relatable for young professionals trying to prove their worth for the kind of projects they are passionate about. After all, she became a studio executive after tiring herself out as Matt's assistant for a long time. So, it feels great to see her be respected for her input, even if that is through a parking spot. Also, she is a person of color, which makes viewers resonate with her even further.

On the other hand, Sal's journey is relatable in another context. He has been doing the studio job for several years and probably doesn't know any other way of living. He has to take care of his two daughters, even if they do not respect him in the slightest. His plight as a family person can resonate with similar individuals, making decisions money-mindedly because that's how they can ensure the longevity of their job and feel useful.

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