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Style Crisis and Authority in American Television: Unraveling the Power Dynamics of Media

Voltaire

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Published in Televisuality: Style Crisis And Authority In American Television (Communications Media And Culture Series)

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In the ever-evolving landscape of American television, style has emerged as a formidable force, shaping narratives, defining characters, and influencing viewers' perceptions. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, style also serves as a potent tool for negotiating authority within the media landscape. This article delves into the intricate relationship between style, crisis, and authority in American television, illuminating the ways in which these elements intersect to construct and challenge power structures.

Style as a Rhetorical Device

Style, in the context of television, encompasses a wide array of visual and narrative elements, including camera work, lighting, editing, music, costuming, and dialogue. Each of these components contributes to the overall tone, mood, and meaning of a television program. By manipulating these elements, creators can subtly influence viewers' emotions and shape their interpretations of the characters and storylines.

Televisuality: Style, Crisis, and Authority in American Television (Communications, Media, and Culture Series)

by Tim Delaney

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For example, in the groundbreaking drama series "The Wire," creator David Simon employs a gritty, naturalistic visual style to immerse viewers in the crime-ridden streets of Baltimore. The handheld camerawork, shaky editing, and muted color palette create a sense of realism that heightens the emotional impact of the show's stories.

Style and Crisis

Crises, whether personal, social, or political, often serve as catalysts for style innovations in television. When traditional norms and conventions are challenged or disrupted, creators seek new and unconventional ways to express their ideas and captivate audiences.

One such example can be found in the post-9/11 era of television. In the wake of the terrorist attacks, shows such as "24" and "The West Wing" introduced a heightened style that reflected the heightened anxiety and uncertainty of the time. Rapid-fire editing, intense lighting, and a fast-paced narrative tempo created a sense of urgency and immediacy that resonated with viewers.

Style and Authority

Style also plays a pivotal role in constructing and challenging authority within the television landscape. Through their choices in style, creators can either reinforce existing power structures or subvert them, opening up new avenues for critique and social commentary.

Consider the popular sitcom "The Office," which uses a mockumentary style to both satirize and legitimize the authority figures within the workplace. By presenting the characters as flawed and mundane, the show undermines the traditional authority of management while also humanizing them, creating a more relatable and accessible narrative.

In contrast, the dystopian drama "The Handmaid's Tale" employs a stylized aesthetic that evokes both historical and futuristic elements to critique the authoritarian regime depicted in the show. The muted color palette, lavish costumes, and haunting cinematography create a visually striking world that serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked power.

Style and Cultural Identity

Style in television not only shapes narratives and constructs authority but also serves as a vehicle for expressing cultural identity. By incorporating elements of specific cultures, such as music, language, or fashion, creators can create narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

The rise of streaming services has accelerated this trend, fostering the production of shows that explore a wider range of cultural perspectives. For example, the comedy-drama "Never Have I Ever" features an Indian-American protagonist, introducing viewers to her unique cultural experiences and challenges.

The intricate relationship between style, crisis, and authority in American television is a testament to the medium's power to both reflect and shape society. Through their stylistic choices, creators have the ability to disrupt traditional norms, challenge power structures, and give voice to diverse cultural perspectives. By understanding the multifaceted nature of style, we gain a deeper appreciation for the role it plays in the ever-evolving tapestry of American television.