Has the over sexualization of teenage characters in tv shows gone to far? The argument of whether it's glamorizing unacceptable behaviour and provocative themes for the young fans? Or trying to show the reality of what the lives could be for children at such a young age?
As the tag you have used Riverdale, which is an interesting choice, as it is not necessarily on the top of the list I would consider for sexualisation of teenagers. I would have perhaps put something like Gossip Girl, Skins, or The OC, etc.
I think, however, that this is an interesting topic and would require a good discussion of what is sexualisation and what is sexual-representation of teenage behaviour. I think a good part of this discussion is in the look at the relevant viewer ages of such shows, the target demographic, etc. But also then a necessary part of the conversation needs to be that now with internet streaming and Netflixs, why does it matter if teenagers are presented in a sexualised manner when it seems most teens are actually watching shows such as Game of Thrones? – SaraiMW7 years ago
It might be a completely different ball-park at this point, but you should check out some of the controversy surrounding the currently airing anime: "My Hero Academia" and it's representing of it's central teenage characters. Here is a good brief write-up of one person's frustrations:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ke1YKF3tNCE I know Japan is an entirely different culture and it may not be exactly what you're looking for, but considering how often the 15-year-olds on the show end up being top-less or in swimsuits it is troubling and could serve as an interesting alternate example for you to present. It's definitely an interesting topic though, as Riverdale does have some troubling tendencies as a series. I can't wait to see whatever you come up with! – BioLizard7 years ago
The new revival of nostalgic television has taken a darker path. The success of 'Stranger Things' has been a catalyst for encouraging the development of nostalgia projects, however, at its heart it is a dark and disturbing tale. The recent release of the 'Riverdale' series based on the 'Archie' comics has been an interesting progression down this darker road. Utilising the same characters, the television interpretation has developed a show full of murder, death, drugs, gangs and violence all obviously in vast contrast to the actuality of the comic series. Yet this series is resonating with the viewers. It seems that the rose-coloured lens of viewing the early American Dream as a reality is truly dead, yet because of it this is becoming a must view series. Have we as viewers now completely lost our innocence?
Analyze the ways in which this TV series has successfully managed to go from an innocent and fun graphic novel to a dark TV series covering some graphic themes. Many people thought it would fail- what made it succeed?
I think this is a great topic, though it may be hard since the show only has one season under its belt. With the second season being recently released, you could also analyze reactions to the initial episodes and trailers, and how that feedback might compare or contrast with its success from the first season. – Noelle McNeill7 years ago
It certainly plays on the old school American high school characters, which appeals to a wide audience, but is made unique with it's dark and mysterious themes running through, perfect for a millennial audience that has the best of both. The cast certainly helped the success also. – rebeverett7 years ago