Reflection 3: What's on Telly?—Exploring International Television

Just as American movies and music dominate the world, so too, does our television. In fact, American shows, ranging from The Walking Dead to The Simpsons to Grey's Anatomy often enjoy large audiences globally. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of international shows on US television. Generally, Americans prefer English-language television produced in their own country. Even shows from other English-speaking countries often have a difficult time finding an audience here, as US viewers are often confounded by non-American English accents. Thus, risk-adverse broadcast networks (e.g. NBC, Fox) rarely offer non-English, non-American programs in their schedules. Streaming services, on the other hand, have tapped into a growing American appetite for foreign television. Now, most major services feature a plethora of international programing options, including frothy Mexican telenovelas and gritty Scandinavian procedurals. For this reflection, watch at least one episode from two different internationally-produced shows on a major American streaming service or website. (Though these shows can technically include television from other English-speaking countries, such as the UK and Canada, you are highly encouraged to watch something from a non-English-speaking country.) In your analysis, examine the differences and similarities between our countries’ entertainment, 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?

Notes:

1. Broadcasting standards in many countries differ from those in the US. Thus, you may find more profanity, violence, even nudity, in these programs.
2.  Most major streaming services—Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, etc.—require paid subscriptions. You are not expected to spend any money for this assignment. In addition to Hulu, which offers a free tier, YouTube has a number of free international television options. Contact me if you have difficulty accessing content.
   

Required:

• MLA Style, plus works cited page
• 2 pages
  

Submission Window: Thu 3.3 - Thu 3.10 (via Canvas)