For many of us, the only way we meet "dangerous" dogs is through news reports about vicious attacks, and films and TV shows that feature out-of-control versions of man's best friend. But there's more to the Bad Dog's story than sensational headlines and movie beasts. A deeper look at these representations reveals a villain much closer to home. This book takes the reader on a rich journey through depictions of violent dogs in popular media. It explores how press accounts and screen stories transform canines into bloodthirsty hunters, rabies-infested strays, ferocious fighters, rogue law enforcement partners and diabolical pets, all adding up to a frightening picture of our usually beloved companions. But, when media tell the dangerous dog's story, it is often with a deep connection to the person on the other end of the leash.

Jackie Gleason once said, ""Television critics are men who report traffic accidents to eyewitnesses."" But aren't we all TV critics? It's a question that overlooks the importance of professional critics whose print and online columns reach large audiences. Their work helps viewers engage with programming and shapes the conversations that arise. This book covers more than five decades of American criticism, from the early days to the present. Whether praising or condemning programming trends, evaluating production and ratings, analyzing storylines or weighing in on policy decisions, a television critic's work is more than a consumer guide - it is part of a rich history that offers an insightful view of American culture.

Before the unprecedented televised presidential debates of 1960, most Americans were able to relate to their leaders in little more than an historical context. In the era of televised elections, however, the media have allowed Americans to witness the paternal, moral and intellectual qualities of their president up close. Television has been so critical to this process of political socialization that, for many Americans, the televised image of the president is the president. As the acclaimed television drama ""The West Wing"" demonstrates, fictional representations of the presidency can also be significant civic forces. This book examines how film and television drama contribute to shaping the presidency and the way most Americans understand it, and particularly the processes of political education. The text discusses ""The West Wing's"" didactic potential, its representation of White House politics, and its depiction of race and gender, with commentary on how fictional representations of the presidency become important elements of American political consciousness.