Reflection 03: What's on Telly?—Televison Around the World

Just as American music dominates the world, so, too, does American television. This is particularly true for our English-speaking cousins in the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In fact, American shows, ranging from Mad Men to How I Met Your Mother have found huge audiences in those countries. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of their shows in the United States. The American preference for television produced in this country means that programs even from other English-speaking countries have a difficult time finding an audience here. It doesn't help that Americans are often confused by English accents and idioms from other parts of the world. And while some Canadian and British shows have achieved US success (e.g. Degrassi, Downton Abbey), most of the television from these countries is largely unknown to American viewers. For this reflection, watch, then write about three programs (one from the UK, one from Canada, and one from Australia/New Zealand). In your analysis, examine the differences and similarities between our countries, such as tone, language, subject matter, and humor. As you did with international music, consider if the shows you watched have any potential for mainstream success in America. Why or why not?

Look for an email on February 20th with links to the shows.

Note: Broadcasting standards in these countries are different than those in the United States, so you may find more profanity, violence, even nudity, in these shows.

Requirements:

• Be in MLA Style
• Be two full pages in length
• No works cited page necessary for this reflection

Due: Th 02.28