Commercial TV:

Information for profit

Media English 2Fall 2011

Ryukyu Daigaku

History

• First televisions were developed in the 1930s.

• Popularity grew in late 1940s, after the war.

• Early programs mimicked live radio.

• “Golden era” in 1960s and 1970s. • In America, huge audiences for three networks.

• By mid-1980s, cable TV arrived.

• More choices = smaller audiences. • Definition of “mass” media begins to change.

Economics

• Radio began in U.S. as a commercial enterprise.

• Not operated by government but regulated.

• Private companies insist on profit system.

• Advertising is foundation of private media.

• Now in digital world, advertisers are worried about TV’s ability to reach customers.

Early programs

• They were produced live in studios.

• More like theater (plays) than movies.

• Evolved to focus more on social realities during Golden era but sought largest audiences possible.

• Today, that has changed.

• Emphasis is on cinematic productions. • High quality lighting, cameras, sound.• Complicated stories. • Tight formulas.

Vitameatavegimen

I Love LucyYear

U.S. vs. Japan TV

U.S.• Huge markets allow

expensive productions.

• Reality TV series now highly popular: American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, Survivor.

• Limited public broadcasting on PBS.

• Comedy: Mostly satire for younger audiences.

Japan• Fewer expensive

dramas.

• More music and variety.

• Much more comedy for all ages.

• NHK sets standards with serious programming.

Most watched

in USA50.15 million

M*A*S*H, last episodeFeb. 28, 1983

BEIJING OLYMPICS

OPENING

CEREMONIES

984 MILLION +

842 MILLION ON CCTVCHINA

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Cable & Satellite TV

• Result of technological improvements.

• Created new emphasis on capturing smaller, tighter markets – driven by demographics.

• Age, gender, ethnicity, nationalism.

• Allowed advertisers to target audiences more carefully. Aimed ads specifically at viewers.

• Created big new demand for content (shows).

TV’s Effects

• How we decide

• How we socialize

• How we live at home

• How we see ourselves and others

TV’s Doubtful future

• Advertisers fear the web and DVRs.

• Tablets and other screens

• Apple into the market – new challenge?

• Mobile TV

• What happens to traditional TV?

The End

•Turn off the TV!