Reflection 2: What's on Telly?—Sampling Global Televison (Assign. 4/12)
Just as American movies and music dominate the world, so too, does our television. In fact, American shows, ranging from Grey's Anatomy to Stranger Things often enjoy large global audiences. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of international shows on American broadcast networks—NBC, ABC, CBS, The CW, and FOX. Traditionally, Americans prefer English-language television produced in our own country—even shows from other English-speaking countries sometimes have a difficult time finding an audience here, as viewers are often confounded by non-American English accents. Thus, risk-adverse broadcast—as well as basic cable networks, such as AMC and USA Network—rarely offer non-English, non-American programs in their schedules. Streaming services, on the other hand, have tapped into an American appetite for foreign television. Now, most major services feature a plethora of international programing, including Korean soaps and Scandinavian procedurals.
For this reflection, watch at least one episode from two different internationally-produced television shows* on either Netflix, Max, Peacock, Prime Video, or Hulu.** They may be either scripted or reality. You may also focus on at least one English-speaking program so long as it is non-American in origin (e.g. Australia, UK). In your analysis, examine the similarities and differences between our two countries, such as tone, language, subject matter, and humor. Finally, consider if the shows*** you watched have any potential for mainstream success in America. Why or why not?
*Broadcasting standards in these countries are different than those in the US, so you may find more profanity, violence, even graphic sex and nudity, in these shows.
**If none of the major streaming services is available to you, YouTube is another viable option. Contact me if you cannot access any platforms or shows.
***Remember to watch a foreign television series, not a film.
Requirements:
- Approx. 500 words
Comments
Post a Comment