***Student Writing Thesis On Reality TV! How do we define the genre!?***

Hi,

I'm currently writing my thesis on Reality TV and the challenges of defining the genre.

With programs like Joe Schmo, The Osbournes and The Newlyweds defying previously held notions of Reality TV - as a term used for television shows that are based on real people (not actors) in real situations, presented as entertainment - how would you currently define the genre of Reality TV?

there are no right or wrong answers here and it is not a trick question... i'm just looking for a discussion on my favorite form of television, Reality TV!

Thanks!
Rory

• RE: Student Writing Thesis On Reality TV! How do fans define the genre!?,Jpod5, 01:50 PM, 10-27-03
• Stop posting this on different forums,Bebo, 02:57 PM, 10-27-03
  • RE: Stop posting this on different forums,Guppin1234, 04:09 PM, 10-27-03
• RE: Student Writing Thesis On Reality TV! How do fans define the genre!?,Guppin1234, 04:06 PM, 10-27-03
  • RE: Student Writing Thesis On Reality TV! How do fans define the genre!?,Tiger Lily, 04:16 PM, 10-27-03

Interesting question.

My first impulse is to define it as any program with a significant element being unscripted. I realize, however, this would include something like “Who’s Line is it…”, but not shows with potentially unscripted elements, such as SNL. I think I stand by that definition, and that something like “Who’s Line…” fits since it is the unscripted spontaneity that makes it interesting. Although if that’s the case, would game shows fit into the reality genre? In the strictest sense I’d say they should, but I don’t know if you’re going for a more focused definition of the Survivor-inspired phenomenon.

My two cents…

This is the third forum you've posted this message too, in clear violation of the guidelines.

We really do have guidelines here. Believe it or not, the Guidelines make things more fun. Really.

What if you incorporate the question into your signature but post according to the topic at hand in each forum? Just asking.

The mindset of the Producers, crew and TV networks is skewed because they live in a Hollywood/Broadway bubble. They are out of touch with what it's like to be an Average Joe/Joan so their translation of reality TV make the contestants look contrived so matter how real the contestants believe themselves to be.

Good observation, Guppin. I mean, just look at the guys from "Average Joe". Some of them look like they came straight out of Revenge of the Nerds. It seems like they overshot it a bit- whether on purpose or not I don't know.