Final Posting :) I did not complete weeks 3&4


Why is reality TV so popular for both programme makers and TV viewers?
Hill (2005) states, that most Reality shows “Draw on a variety of genres to create ratings winners.” Reality TV has the unique ability to combine a multitude of genres and known popular elements into one program. This is the prime reason for its success; its ability to satisfy the wants of a huge cross section of society. Hill (2005)-“Reality TV is a Catch all category,” Personally, although I used to be disgusted with the concept and entertainment value of Docu-soap American Style Reality TV; in recent years I have found there are many Reality TV shows I do enjoy (such as Hells Kitchen), perhaps for other reasons besides the melodrama that can turn some people off.  This is a great example of the power reality TV holds in winning over a huge amount of viewers. I enjoy Hells Kitchen, mainly because I enjoy cooking and am interested to hear the various techniques, chefs and experts use to create better dishes. Another viewer- of a totally different mindset- may watch because they enjoy the drama and tension of the kitchen, and the constant over the top insults dished out by Gordon Ramsey. People from vastly different backgrounds and value systems, can easily find entertainment value from the same show. “There is something for everyone in the reality genre.”- Hill (2005)


How does new-media (the internet, cell-phone technology, etc) play a significant role in the success of reality TV, as well as cult TV series such as Buffy?
In my opinion, the internet is simply an aider and empowerer of certain forms of Reality and Cult TV. These shows usually owe their success to word of mouth promotion by individuals, the Internet gives individuals the capacity and power to spread word of mouth promotion of a program; far more than any traditional medium could offer. This allows shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer or Reality TV like Survivor, to quickly be taken up by its audience. Perhaps this is the main way in which New media plays a role in the success of certain TV programs. Although, im sure shows like Buffy would have been successful before the days of the internet; this modern exposure maybe gives the show near instant success, perhaps allowing for series renewal, whereas in the past it may have been eventually cancelled because of poor profits. The other forms of instant communication (such as Cellphones) work in much the same way as the internet; but on a more local level. Friends will often text message eachother, to tell them about their favorite new show etc.

The Internet and Cellphones can also promote TV programs, by creating a new interactive level in which the audience can participate. This gets people more involved and creates passion and a sense of realism surrounding that particular show. Any activity including competitions, forums, extended narrative, games, memorabilia of the show and online viewing of the series, can be used to hook people in; even if when the series is not showing on TV. Online continuation of a series, will also result in increased profit margins through advertising and sales etc

Advertising for Reality TV and Cult shows, is very prominent on the internet; especially utilized on social networking sites such as Facebook. This may be one of the most successful forms of modern advertising; since sometimes social networking sites allow companies to pull peoples private data, and essentially bullseye their advertising at the intended audience



References


Hill, A. (2005) The rise of reality TV. In A. Hill, Reality TV: Audiences and Popular Factual Television. (pp. 15 – 40). Oxon: Routledge.