introduction to TV drama

 INTRODUCTION TO TV DRAMA:


1) What is serial television drama? Write your own definition.

Serial television drama is a type of TV show where the story continues from episode to episode, often with cliffhangers, creating a continuous narrative arc. Examples include "Breaking Bad" and "Game of Thrones."

2) List five of the TV dramas discussed in the history of the genre on page 1 of the factsheet. How has the genre evolved over time?

The evolution of TV dramas has seen a shift from storytelling to more narratives, with shows like "The Sopranos," "Breaking Bad," "Game of Thrones," "The Wire," and "Mad Men" leading the way. This change has brought character development, darker themes, and change to genre.

3) List the sub-genres of TV drama featured in the factsheet. Come up with your own example of an existing TV drama to fit each category.
  • Crime Drama: "True Detective" - Investigates complex crimes with interesting narratives.
  • Medical Drama: "Grey's Anatomy" - Explores the lives of doctors and patients in a hospital setting.
  • Legal Drama: "Suits" - Follows the world of corporate law and lawyer dynamics.
  • Period Drama: "Downton Abbey" - Documents life in early 20th century England.
  • Political Drama: "House of Cards" - Unveils political manipulation.
  • Family Drama: "This Is Us" - Explores themes of love, loss, and happiness in a family.
  • Thriller/Suspense Drama: "Homeland" - Follows a CIA officer dealing with a potential terrorist threat.
  • Fantasy/Sci-Fi Drama: "Stranger Things" - Combines supernatural elements with 1980s nostalgia.

4) Why is setting so important for TV drama?

Setting is important for TV drama because it establishes the atmosphere and influences characters change, proceeds with the plot, and reflects themes and issues explored within the show.

5) How do TV dramas typically use character? What audience pleasures can be linked to character in TV drama? (Hint: Uses & Gratifications theory!)

TV dramas use characters to engage audiences emotionally, physically, offer comparison, and encourage learning. This links with Gratifications theory, where viewers seek entertainment, emotional connection, identification, and reflection through character experiences.

6) What is a multi-strand narrative? Give an example of a TV drama that features a multi-strand narrative.

A multi-strand narrative is a storytelling technique used in TV dramas where multiple characters story lines unfold simultaneously, often involving different sets of characters and locations. These story lines may influence one another as the plot progresses.

7) What is a cold opening?

A cold opening is a TV show's beginning scene before the opening credits, often starting abruptly to grab viewers' attention.

8) How can Todorov's theory of equilibrium be applied to TV drama serials?

Todorov's theory of equilibrium in TV drama serials can be applied by looking at how story lines typically begin with a stable situation, introduce a conflict, undergo a series of complications, and ultimately resolve the conflict to restore a new equilibrium by the end of the episode or season. This structure helps to maintain audience engagement and satisfaction as they follow the characters' journeys through various challenges and resolutions.

9) What is the typical form for TV dramas and how are the programmes typically distributed to an audience?

TV dramas typically follow a serialised format, with interconnected story lines unfolding over multiple episodes or seasons. They are distributed to audiences through television or streaming platforms, where viewers can watch episodes either on scheduled broadcast times or on-demand at their convenience.

10) How have subscription channels (such as HBO) and streaming services (such as Netflix and Amazon Prime) changed the form and content of TV dramas?

Subscription channels like HBO and streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime have changed TV dramas by offering more creative freedom, allowing for varied content, shorter or longer episode lengths, and releasing entire seasons at once for binge-watching.

11) Choose a TV drama and do your own analysis of it using the SETTING / CHARACTERS / NARRATIVE / FORM headings as featured on page 3 of the factsheet.

  • Setting: "Breaking Bad" is set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, showcasing both urban and desert landscapes, reflecting the contrast between everyday life and the illicit drug trade.
  • Characters: The series centers on Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, and his partner, Jesse Pinkman. Supporting characters like Walter's wife Skyler and DEA agent brother-in-law Hank add depth to the ensemble cast.
  • Narrative: "Breaking Bad" follows Walter's transformation into a drug lord and the consequences of his actions, driven by tension-filled plot twists and moral dilemmas.
  • Form: The show utilises cinematic visuals, occasional flashbacks, and symbolism to enhance storytelling, creating a gripping viewing experience.

12) How might the TV drama genre evolve in future?

The TV drama genre may continue to change by embracing new technologies and diverse perspectives, while also exploring new themes and societal issues relevant to modern audiences.

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