My Journey with Television: From Laughter to Solace
Television has been a constant companion through the trials and tribulations of life. From shows that relentlessly entertain to those that offer solace during challenging times, the experience of watching television is deeply personal and varied. This article explores my journey with television, detailing the shows that have brought me joy and comfort, as well as those that left me skeptical about the medium's value.
Entertainment Through Laughter
One of the joys of television is its ability to provide laughter, especially during tough days. Marry with Children holds a special place in my heart. Its humor is sharp and relatable, making me laugh and uplift my spirits. Similarly, Mike Molly and Mama's Family reruns have always been a comfort to me. They provide a sense of comfort through their comedic brilliance, allowing me to forget about my workday stresses and indulge in pure entertainment.
The Magic of Looney Tunes and SpongeBob
For those moments when I need to turn off my brain and just laugh, Looney Tunes is a must-watch. This cartoon classic requires no effort to enjoy; it's purely about moments of laughter that can last for hours. SpongeBob SquarePants also gets an honorable mention. It's a show that never ceases to amuse me, making it a perfect choice for a moment of relaxation.
Pandemic's Impact on Television Viewing
During the pandemic, television seemed to lose its comforting value. The shows that had once brought joy and solace started feeling inauthentic and superficial. The portrayal of real-life struggles, especially those of working people, seemed to be a form of ridicule. Shows that I once enjoyed grew distant, leaving me feeling emotionally disconnected. Television, for the first time, seemed to have lost its charm as a source of comfort and enjoyment.
Favorite Shows of All Time
When it comes to shows that resonate with me, Parks and Recreation stands out. The ensemble cast and the sheer humor make it a favorite. Another show that holds a special place is Ted Lasso. This show is a perfect blend of humor and heart, making it both entertaining and emotionally satisfying. While it takes some time to get into the rhythm of the show, the payoff is immense. Sitcoms, while initially challenging to immerse in, eventually offer great rewards.
Police Procedurals: A Balance of Reality and Surrealism
Police procedural shows like NCIS, CSI, NYPD Blue, The Rookie, Blue Bloods, etc., are a mix of reality and surrealism. They present a slice of life within the law enforcement community, where a bad thing happens and is resolved within an hour. Though this isn't representative of real life, it does offer an entertaining glimpse into a world that is both fascinating and challenging. Shows like Ghost Stories, Positive, US of a Neighbor, Bob Hearts Abishol offer similar experiences but require a bit more time to connect with the characters and the plot.
Favorite Shows That Require Multiple Watches
Some shows are best savored through multiple watches. I enjoy rewatching because I can pick up on subtle nuances that I may have missed the first time around. 3 Idiots, for instance, I have watched 20 times, and I still remember every dialogue and background music. It's a deeply emotional and thought-provoking Indian film that captures the essence of brotherhood and ambition. A Silent Voice is another film that holds a special place in my heart, having watched it 3 times. It's a deeply emotional and well-crafted Japanese anime that delves into themes of friendship and redemption. Doctor John is a Korean medical drama that has touched my heart, having watched it 3 times. It captures the essence of medical ethics and emotional struggles, making it both informative and emotionally engaging. Gustakh Ishq, a Pakistani drama, and Deep Jale Jaya, a Bengali film, are also favorites that offer a mix of drama, love, and emotional depth.
Television has been a constant companion through my life, offering laughter, comfort, and introspection. While some shows have left me skeptical, others have brought me joy and deep reflections. Each show has its own charm and place in my heart, making television a diverse and enriching experience.