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The Daily
The Year in TV & Movies
Dec 26, 2024
James Poniewozik, Chief television critic for The New York Times, and Manola Dargis, Chief film critic for The New York Times, dive into the state of entertainment in 2024. They discuss the pervasive 'mid-TV' phenomenon, criticizing the mediocrity of recent shows. Sequels dominate the film landscape, with Dargis highlighting both beloved and divisive films of the year. Throughout, they emphasize innovative storytelling, urging a move away from formulaic content in both television and cinema. Recommendations for standout productions also shine through.
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Quick takeaways
- 2024's television landscape is marked by 'mid-TV,' where high production fails to inspire due to formulaic storytelling.
- The film industry is similarly affected by 'sequelitis,' limiting opportunities for original narratives amidst a focus on familiar franchises.
Deep dives
The Rise of Mid-TV
In 2024, television content has been characterized as 'mid-TV,' representing shows that, while well-produced and featuring star-studded casts, lack memorable storytelling qualities. This trend suggests a focus on safe, formulaic programming over innovative narratives, with shows like 'Palm Royale' exemplifying how high production values do not guarantee engagement. The fall from the heights of prestige television, where groundbreaking series like 'The Sopranos' emerged, can be attributed to the influence of streaming platforms and algorithms that prioritize viewer retention through familiar content. This over-reliance on known formulas results in a lack of original ideas, creating a viewing landscape that feels stale and uninspired.
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