timed essay question 4

 

Multiple narrative strands are the key convention of long form television dramas. Discuss how far you agree with this statement in relation to the set episode of the long form television drama you have studied.

Long form television dramas have many conventions that make an effective product. When looking at Stranger Things, multiple narrative strands are a key convention throughout the show, but there are also others which can be considered vital to create an enjoyable experience for audiences.

The classic Hollywood narrative involves moving through an initial equilibrium, a disruption to the harmony, a recognition of the disruption, working through a resolution, and a new equilibrium at the end. Long form television dramas work through these stages in a slower pace than films, usually reaching the first few stages in the opening episodes and remaining in the resolution stage for the majority of the show. In Stranger Things, there are 3 primary narrative strands that stand out in the opening episode, being the disappearance of Will Byers, the escape of Eleven, and the escape of the alien. All three of these main strands reach the recognition stage in the opening episode, with the police knowing Will is missing, and the government aware that both Eleven and the alien have escaped. The recognition aspect is not reached by all characters in the episode though, only to some, to a certain degree. As an audience, we are at the recognition stage. There are also a series of smaller narrative strands throughout the episode, such as Nancy and Steve’s relationship, the treatment of the boys at school, or the personal lives of Joyce and the sheriff. These narratives are sent on their way and do not all remain at the same stage throughout the pilot. Though the narrative strands are a key convention, they are not used alone, and are interspersed with minor narrative strands that add excitement to the show.

The genre of Stranger Things is a blend of horror and sci-fi, taking conventions from both and appeal to a primary audience that take an interest in these genre markers. In terms of genre, there is a clear use of intertextuality in the show, referencing 1980s shows and films, such as Knight Rider being on the tv, Stephen King fonts being emulated in the title card, and ET shots being replicated for the opening and closing scenes. The text is evidently postmodern, creating a new and enriched piece of media that draws from a large array of past creations of the same genre. Although multiple narrative strands are a key convention of long form television dramas, genre is also a very important aspect, allowing the audience to decide whether they want to watch the show. With narratives alone, the show would not be as popular in its appeal. The conventions of a genre are often recognisable at a first glance, through the postmodern approach allowing for a mix of new yet familiar concepts to be used that create a large viewership.

In Long form television dramas, there have to be characters. Each character has to have their own story, and their own individual personality. Through having a larger cast that do not all instantly share screen time, the audience are allowed to imagine the possible interactions that may occur. The characters of a drama are also meant to be relatable, giving the audience uses and gratifications they gain from the show. As they watch, they are entertained, but also are given opportunity to form personal identities that may align with what they see on the show. In stranger things, the cast of characters all have their own different aspects; some people may want to identify with the mystery of Eleven, or the sex appeal of Steve, or the motherly love of Joyce. Being faced with options means that members of the audience would all take different readings of the show and allow themselves to have different levels of enjoyment. As well as the people depicted, the show itself needs an individual character – often achievable through technical aspects such as sound design, lighting, or the framing of shots. Character is a key convention of long form television dramas, and work in tandem with narrative strands and genre.

In conclusion, though multiple narrative strands are a key convention in long form television dramas, they are not the only necessary feature. It is possible to utilise all of the important features that create an effective long form tv drama, and it is a powerful tool to combine these aspects and make a show that will be beloved by many. I believe that the most important aspect of a long form television drama is the characterisations of the show, and the individuals that are depicted. A show needs to know what its about, and where it is going. When a show has countless minor Easter Eggs that foreshadow the upcoming events, then it is clear that the show knew what it was about. These small details are what makes a show great in my opinion.