The Idiot Box
It curious how one’s viewing habits change over time. I increasingly find myself watching and enjoying TV shows today, that I would have balked at 25 years ago. I also find that a lot of the so-called premium shows that are critically acclaimed and discussed at great length in subreddits and blog posts, hold no interest for me. This is not because they’re bad because they’re patently not. I am just overly familiar with television, the same way I am with cinema. I often spot plot devices and twists before they are revealed. I also find that many of the tropes and conceits common to TV have become boring. For example, I enjoy Reacher but the stories never place him in genuine jeopardy. It’s not as if his character is going to be killed off. So his adventures become fun but arbitrary. I also find the way stories are stretched over too many episodes and the obligatory cliffhanger ending predictable. Hence, I watch far less TV than I used to and I look for shows that engage with me in new ways.
The Celebrity Traitors
Whenever certain TV shows gain popularity and become internet talking points, it simultaneously piques my interest while also invoking my scepticism. Popularity is not always indicative of quality. I can think of numerous UK TV shows that attract big audiences that do not appeal to me whatsoever. However, sometimes it can be enjoyable to watch something that is in the public eye and to participate in the “buzz” associated with that show. I watch Strictly Come Dancing each year for this reason and because watching people learn a skill is entertaining. However, this post is about another show. Namely The Celebrity Traitors which has just begun its second season on the BBC.