The Collegian
Friday, April 26, 2024

Some ideas to make television more interesting

Nowadays too many programs focus on the same cliche topics. You have your run-of-the-mill comedy about dysfunctional families. You have all too realistic sci-fi shows. Come on, the point is to make an unbelievable world, that is the intriguing part of the genre. Then there is the simplistic drama which has one simple goal that almost never comes to a quick resolution. "Lost," anyone? The producers milked a couple of seasons out of a show that could have been resolved in one. I am not indicting these shows because frankly some of them are my favorites; however, I do want to see some more variety occasionally.

That is why I have come up with ideas for shows in these genres: comedy, drama and sci-fi.

In comedy, I propose another show with more intelligent humor, something along the lines of "The Big Bang Theory." The show should focus on an unlikely hero or heroes. Not another family comedy, please. I feel like the show should be set in a place no one would expect. This will add to the hilarity of the already outlandish main character I have proposed. Taking dramatic swings such as these will provide freshness to a genre that has grown monotonous in modern times.

There are plenty of good dramas, do not get me wrong. Even so, a lot of these shows focus on crime and social tension. I want a drama that completely redevelops the genre. Do not have a singular goal from the outset. Let each episode be new ground with which there is no general plot line. In shows like "Person of Interest," although the show is great, each episode focuses on preventing a crime. I want to be a little confused because this also lures me into the story. I want to learn more, and, as a result, I am willing to watch more. I am okay if the series are shorter because the plot resolution means an end to the show.

Finally, I have an idea for the sci-fi genre. As I previously mentioned, most sci-fi today is too realistic. Take the focus off Earth and set the show in another world. Nothing screams sci-fi quite like a good alien. Furthermore, technology of this planet of planets should consist of things that seem incomprehensible or amazing compared to Earth standards. This genre is meant to amaze and provide relief from the harsh realities of normal life. A completely unique world will offer an escape and allow the viewer to immerse him or herself into a fascinating realm of enjoyment.

All I ask is that television considers taking drastic swings to try to produce a few more shows with flare and originality. I believe a large majority of television programs still follow the same template and do not try to be wholly unique.

Now this is only my opinion, but I really do believe some of my suggestions could help bring new passion to a television world that struggles at time to find feasible and entertaining show to produce.

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