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Writer's pictureLouisa Robertson

Long Form TV Dramas

Updated: Jan 12

Long form = complex, continuous narrative that runs throughout the entirety of a show.


Deutschland 83 (S1, ep1) and Stranger Things (S1, ep1)

-both set in 1983

-multi-strand narrative

-'beyond the binary' characters who develop with each dilemma

-narratives based on systemic change and explores social issues

-cinematic - high quality writing, acting, directing and production design


Deutschland 83 micro-genres = thriller, teen, historical, coming of age, action, political, unexpected etc.


Stranger Things micro-genres = horror, thriller, science fiction, conspiracy, coming of age, family, drama etc.


What makes long forms unique?

-provides escapism

-less traditional storytelling

-unexpected twists

-creates culture

-encourages audiences to interact with the media (Shirky)


Why are long forms beneficial to creatives?

-creative freedom

-commitment to the story and audience loyalty

-lack of regulation and censorship

-complexity is encouraged

-mass audience with mainstream media


Audience pleasures:

-humour

-identifying with a character or situation

-gaining pleasure from others pain

-viewer reward

-superiority over the characters





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