Coming into this class, I knew almost nothing about British TV. Now, in response to this final blog post assignment, an initial thought immediately came to mind in terms of programming: British TV is so much more real and more honest than American TV. This is the most surprising/admirable thing I have learned that has allowed me to appreciate British television.
A number of shows come to mind that embody this realism. Him and Her on BBC Three, for example, exemplifies real-life love in its everyday glory. The inactivity is so intriguing and different than anything I have ever seen before, as it displays exactly how real couples actually interact with one another.
Being Human, a supernatural sci-fi show, places emphasis on the relationships between the three supernatural beings. The show investigates their real life struggles and friendship amidst the turmoil that surrounds their lives. There is no Edward/Bella-esque love infatuation or typical, supernatural plot lines. There are three characters, three friends, whose dynamic makes the show.
Even Skins, is my opinion, is much more honest in the British version as opposed to the American version. The U.S. version is apt to portray violence over sex and portrays teens literally going crazy! The British version focuses more on individual struggles that modern teens are realistically going through, and is not as sensationalistic.
In terms of comedy, there is Miranda. The self-conscious style is entirely real. Miranda is not a skinny, gorgeous, 20-something model/actress. She is intentionally clumsy and awkward. There is a greater sense of failure with UK protagonists, and they also feature less attractive people, which is admirable.
British TV examines realist, social issues without shame. Even One Day, which we have watched recently, is slower-paced and tackles societal challenges involving class and violence. Whether viewers take to it or not, British television is not afraid to be real, thought-provoking, offensive, messy, honest, etc. It breaks barriers that U.S. television is often too afraid to cross.