Reflection 1: What's on Telly?—International Televison in America
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 most American television outlets. Traditionally, Americans prefer English-language television produced in our own country—even
shows from other English-speaking countries have a difficult time
finding an audience here, as viewers are often confounded by
non-American English accents. Thus, risk-adverse broadcast and basic cable networks
(e.g. NBC, AMC) 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 shows* on either
Netflix, Prime Video, or Hulu.** You may focus on at least one English-speaking program so long as it is non-American in origin. 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.
**Of the three major streaming services, only Hulu offers a free
trial. If none of these is available to you, YouTube is another viable option. Contact
me if you cannot access any platforms or shows.
***Remember to watch a series, not a film.
- MLA Style
- Approximately 375 words
- Works cited
Submission Window: Thu 9.1-Tue 9.6 (via Canvas)