MEDS 286 - Cult TV and Its Audiences

Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)

(Same as FILM 286) The course examines the historical and cultural development of “cult” television in the US and the UK, and the ways in which cult television shows become celebrated cultural touchstones. We pay particular attention to the ways in which cult television shows transform audiences into communities as well as what it means to be a part of such a community. Building on the idea of fan communities, we consider the implications of audience-championed cult narratives as they are reshaped into fan-fiction and other performances of identity and community. We also examine how cult shows blur the line between “cult” and “camp”, impact programming strategies, spawn fan movements, and influence media convergence. We further explore the recognition and cooptation of cult programs and the mainstreaming of cult audience behavior. Screenings include Doctor Who, The X-Files, The Simpsons, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Arrested Development, and Star Trek. Alex Kupfer.

Prerequisite(s): FILM 175 or FILM 210 or MEDS 160.

Two 75-minute periods plus outside screenings.