Saturday Night

1: Media being reviewed

Saturday Night Live

2: How I encountered the media

I first encountered Saturday Night Live while I was in high school.  I, like many others, became engaged by this series.  Now, I try not to miss an episode.

3: My general impression

Saturday Night Live is a tour de force.  The series is one of the longest running in television history and has launched many blockbuster careers.  There is always a biting social commentary included in the comedy and often issues of the day that are frustrating are lightened and given focus by this amazing television show.

4: Who is communicating, and why?

The show was originally created by Lorne Michaels and he is still involved.  The comedians get to do a lot of the writing but at the end of the day, NBC is responsible for the programming that makes it on screen.  The show is designed as an entertainment but it also has a definite focus on current events and the US government.  Common characters appearing on the show often are the current president, vice president, congressmen and any other public official who makes it into the news.  The prevalence of public officials in the lineup of characters allows the show to examine and play with current social policies and the motivations of our political leaders.

5: What type of text (or medium) is it?

This is a “live” TV show.  On the east coast, the show is broadcast live.  There is a broadcast delay for other time zones.

6: How is it produced?

The show is filmed in front of a live studio audience.  There are sets and costumes similar to a live theatre performance but the show is being filmed and broadcast on television.

7: How do we know what it means?

Given the conventions of the comedic form, the viewer can interpret the meaning of the different sketches.  Some of the sketches are simply for entertainment.  Others have a statement about society, our election process, or the integrity of politicians.  Understanding of the meaning beyond the comedy requires the viewer to be familiar with the comedic form and its conventions.

8: Who receives it and what sense do they make of it?

This show is received by millions of Americans, Canadians, and people all over the world.  Most people who view the show are able to grasp the comedy involved in making light of social conventions unique to the United States.  Most are also able to grasp the political satires that are broadcast.

9: How does it present its subject?

The subject is presented in a short skit format.  There are numerous skits in one episode and each can have its own meaning.  The skits are short, funny, and often repetitive helping the viewer to interpret and understand the intent.

10: Links/images

http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live//
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturday_Night_Live