Posting on Tuesdays, with observations and reflections on newsy things going on in the world from a Godly perspective, plus occasional personal and funny stuff
Thursday, September 23, 2010
TV's Glee—Good Entertainment, or Not?
"Glee"is a TV show about a bunch of kids with dysfunctional problems, their married (now divorcing) chorus director who can't seem to get his head on straight, his flaky wife who faked a pregnancy so she could hang on to him (and who lately seems to have suddenly disappeared), a sinister teacher/cheerleading coach whose behavior is so outrageous she wouldn't be allowed to teach in any school I know of, a nice girl who got accidentally (?) knocked up, a teen hero guy who isn't sure which of the glee club girls is really "his girl," a school principal who is easily manipulated into going along with the sinister teacher, and more. The show is a hit. But is it truly "good entertainment?"
The music is outstanding, and so are many individual voices in the choral group. The show gets high marks--due to the music, we are told. But it stands on sappy dramatic plots that portray mean, twisted, and often silly behavior by adults who are educated and experienced enough in life to know better.The teen plots in the show often strain credibility. Even the male heroes in the show come up lacking somewhat in character. True, almost all high school kids struggle some with personal relationships and make mistakes. And let's be honest—nobody's perfect. But if this show is supposed to represent how most kids really are or, heaven help us, show them how to handle life's problems better, most of the time it fails miserably.
Overall, does it still make for "good entertainment?" Good question. What do you think? Does the good outweigh the bad? I worry that many vulnerable pre-teens and teens are watching it because the music is so good. Do they believe the plots are depicting "normal teen and adult behavior"? I sure hope not. Do they have any idea that real life can be much better? I hope so. Mostly, I wonder how good the show could be, if its writers came up with neat teachers and good, helpful answers to ordinary teen problems alongside the outstanding music.
Loving and wishing the best for our country's teens,
Margaret
I am an award-winning nonfictioninspirational writerand follower of God in Christ. Also Mom to Cindy, Debbie, Sue, and Ken with six grandchildren, two greats, and lots of step-s. I love Bible studies, reading, singing, gardening, some travel, and all things natural. My nickname is Peggy, but I use it only in my personal life for ease in financial transactions.
My writing mission: Bringing God closer
Margaret Houk
Hi! family, friends, and followers. I'm loving what I'm doing here and I hope to be posting twice a week, at least at first. My goal is to be brief, focused, fun, and relevant. My objective is that every post have some take-home value; if it doesn't, I haven't done my job. A tall order? You bethcha! But doing God's work is never easy. It takes prayer and dedicated effort. I promise to do my best. My hope is to be someday on your list of favorite writers.
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When You Have a Chronic Illness
A guidebook to help the chronically ill cope physically, emotionally, and spiritually for the chronically ill. $5.99. By Augsburg Books. Click on book cover, then Augsburg's store search to order.
Lighten Up and Enjoy Life Well
Practical suggestions to decrease stress without making major life changes. $14.00. Order from Margaret via e-mail.
That Very Special Person--Me!
For teens and pre-teens, to teach them how to develop healthy Christ-centered self-esteem and constructive ways of thinking and living. $7.00. Order from Margaret via e-mail.
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