One of the most critically-acclaimed television series of all time, Arrested Development is widely hailed as a cutting-edge comedy that broke the traditional sitcom mold. The winner of six Emmys, the series was cancelled by Fox in 2006, only to be revived in 2013 via Netflix's streaming service. Beyond its innovative approach to storytelling, the series lampooned contemporary American culture, holding up an unflattering mirror to modern society. This collection of new essays explores how the show addressed issues like wealth and poverty, race, environmentalism and family relationships. Focusing on the show's iconic characters, the essays also consider Arrested Development as it stands next such works of fiction as Hamlet, The Godfather and the writings of Kafka. Also covered is the show's reinvention the sitcom genre, and what its revival on Netflix means for the future of television.

Fan CULTure explores how present-day fans interact with the films, television shows, books, and pop culture artifacts they love. From creating original works of fanfiction to influencing the content of major primetime series through social media, fans are no longer passive consumers. They have evolved into active participants in creating and shaping these works. The all-new essays in this collection provide in-depth analyses of how fans interact with such popular franchises as Harry Potter, Supernatural, Lost, Lord of the Rings, Joss Whedon's Serenity, and examines as well non-media based topics like fans of the LEGO building blocks, Disneyland, and NFL quarterback Tim Tebow.

The Big Damn Firefly & Serenity Trivia Book is the ultimate fan's guide to Joss Whedon's critically acclaimed series Firefly and film sequel Serenity. Inside you will find over 1,000 questions that delve into the detailed elements that have made Firefly and Serenity beloved by millions, including the characters, actors, episodes, and behind-the-scenes moments. The questions highlight aspects of the show that casual viewers may have missed and the die-hard Browncoats will relish. And with an introduction from "Jaynestown" director Marita Grabiak, everyone is sure to learn something new. In addition, each chapter features a short biography on members of the cast and production team who were instrumental in bringing the adventures of Serenity's crew to life.This book will test your knowledge and rekindle the excitement you felt the first time you saw our Big Damn Heroes on the screen. Perfect for enjoying on your own or challenging friends at parties, shindigs, and convention gatherings, The Big Damn Firefly & Serenity Trivia Book will answer the most important question of all: who is the biggest Firefly and Serenity fan in the 'verse?

In recent years, reality-based television programming has invaded and overrun the ecology of the television landscape, and one would be hard pressed to find a single network or cable channel without some sort of reality-based programming. But how has this sudden and overwhelming influx of reality television impacted viewers? This study examines the impact that one specific type of reality program, those based on competition, have had on the viewers who watch them. Using a cultivation approach to media effects, this study looks at how heavy consumption of competition-based reality programming effects viewers' perceptions of the real world, as compared to those who watch little or no reality television. Does the prevalence of lying, manipulation, and untrustworthiness that appear on shows like Survivor, The Apprentice, and The Bachelor cause avid watchers of reality shows to be more likely see these antisocial traits as larger societal problems? The book is intended for media effects scholars and professionals in mass communication, including those involved in programming and development. It is also intended as a foundation for those studying reality television in general.