What role does Hills (2004) suggest the fans play in the construction of cult TV?
Within the given extract, the concept of cult TV is constantly defined by the level of engagement reflected by the fans. As Hill (2004) points out, a cult show generally becomes successful when "the fantastic takes on a quality of everydayness by virtue of its repetition, familiarity and narritive iteration" (Hills, 2004). This means that the idea of vampires/demons and the like become commonplace and the archetypes explored are developed as the series itself develops, becoming less of a stereotypical vampire/demon and more of a character that expresses traits that can be justified by the previous episodes viewed. The character can also face problems that occur in the real world, and thus fans can relate to a greater degree. This relationship between character and fan can act as an indirect fuel to the construction of cult tv. The idea that fans create an intertextual network help to establish links with other similar programs; a link which is not established by the producers of said program (created by the fans themselves). Secondly, fans freely use the word cult to help explain their relationship to the show and may infact develop appreciation groups dedicated to the program of their choice. These groups may create a market for memorabilia related to their given show, and indirectly help to establish the cult behind their program even further.
How is new media central to this?
New media (primarily the internet) is central to the formation of cult tv, as it allows fans from all across the world to voice their opinions on certain programs (as well as much more). In addition to sharing opinions, it allows for file sharing - fans can share their favourite programs with like minded individuals to further develop their 'cult'. The intertextual network can also help get fans of one program into other programs, using the shared interest as a gateway into many different programs enjoyed by a similar audience. For example, a modern day cult tv program might include the Big Bang Theory - a program that has a global fanbase and is relatively different other tv programs, yet shares a similar audience. The internet has allowed a greater degree of fan interaction than any program 20 years ago. The format is also similar to that of Buffy the Vampire Slayer - as each episode can stand alone, yet story lines are developed and characters evolve over the different seasons.
Hills, M. (2004). Defining Cult TV; Texts, Inter-texts and Fan Audiences, The Television Studies Reader, in R.C. Allen & A. Hill. London and New York: Routledge.
A sound theoretical discussion Tristan - but particularly in response to the second question - it would've good to provide some explicit examples in support- here a brief discussion of the type of fan sites related to the series the Big bang theory would have been interesting. Also only a minor detail but don't forget to cite the page numbers of any direct references.
ReplyDelete