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| IF I WANT EDUCATION I'LL WATCH THE HISTORY CHANNEL |
| Tuesday, February 07, 2006 |
| Quick. Name a favorite movie or TV show with an important social message. That's right - there isn't one. If moviemakers are interested in getting people back into the theaters, I have but one suggestion - think entertainment. I know this sounds simplistic, but it just might work.
We are constantly bombarded from all directions with political and social messages in movies and TV programs that we watch for the entertainment. I know I'm not the only one who is weary of this. My friend, "Hole in One Bob" recently opined that he might quit watching one of his (and my) favorite TV shows, "Boston Legal," because he can't stand the political assault.
If TV programs and movies could both entertain and teach (or preach, or whatever), I wouldn't actually mind it, but rarely can producers and writers do both. Often, the shows with the most obvious "message" are also the least entertaining. NBC's colossal failure, "The Book of Daniel" is a prime example of a producer trying to push a social agenda with entertainment, and failing miserably.
What do you want in an entertainment program? I want interesting characters, witty dialogue and a good plot. If you first do that, then hit me with all the messages you want, but if you can't do that - then spare me the sermon.
I savor good entertainment for what it is supposed to be - an escape from the pressures of real world challenges and problems. When I find shelter from the storm, I don't want to watch the weather channel. Ralph Bristol |
posted by Jack Mercer @ 2/07/2006 10:46:00 AM   |
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| 3 Comments: |
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I'll second that. If you can't hold my attention, you're certainly not going to teach me any lesson.
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Of course, EP, some people will watch anything...maybe that is what they are hoping!
-Jack
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Does (did) "Book of Daniel" have an agenda? I didn't quite get that it was trying to do the message thing.
I know the "social message" thing has been big since the 70's, but usually it turns out to be a pop-message, more more of a ratings-grab than an important statement. Still, some do make valid social statements, but they're usually things we already know.
It always reminds me of something I read that said the biggest demographic by far for television advertisers is adolescent girls. Most advertising and programing is based on an appeal to adolescent girls. And we know what they're like. Imagine... their sensibilities lead American media.
By the way, if anyone asks, my favorite show of all time was and will always be Northern Exposure 8^)
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Name: Jack Mercer
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Miriam Webster defines Snipe as: to aim a carping or snide attack, or: to shoot at exposed individuals (as of an enemy's forces) from a usually concealed point of vantage.
Miriam Webster defines Snippet as: : a small part, piece, or thing; especially : a brief quotable passage.
In short, "Snipets" are brief, snide shots at exposed situations from a concealed vantage point.
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I'll second that. If you can't hold my attention, you're certainly not going to teach me any lesson.