I really don't like historic docudramas [I Love History]

It seems to have monopolized the history documentary genre entirely. Shots of actors in costume dress, historical footage, and clips of historians being interviewed.

I guess this must get the ratings but I don't like it. I actually find it harder to access because I need maps and dates to develop an understanding. These dramas heavily emphasise personal stories for me the history is the story.

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splishsplash

I agree with you. I LOVE documentaries but I seldom see docudramas done well (especially in the states).

Burnley123 · 41-45, M

@splishsplash It's the same in Britain, probably everywhere.

splishsplash

@Burnley123 I think the UK tends not to (how to say this nicely 🤔) dumb down their audience? I have seen some really good (independent) documentaries on Channel 4. The US also attempts to make documentaries into mini movies with loud elaborate music -- which I find annoying. It's like they think the audience is too stupid to pay attention to historical facts without a huge production? Considering the amount of people who voted for Trump they may have a point 😏

Burnley123 · 41-45, M

@splishsplash Oh we do dumb things down plenty. It's just that the stuff you have heard of is the 'smart' stuff. Channel 4 is kind of like the most hipster channel.

The US has actually been through a golden period of intelligent dramas. From the Sopranos, through the Wire and True Detective etc. Much better and deeper stuff than you get on TV here. Line of Duty is the exception.

The docudrama thing obviously works with the ratings or they wouldn't make these shows but I just don't like it.

splishsplash

@Burnley123

Line of Duty was so good!

The other shows are good too (I agree) but they are all HBO. You wouldn't see anything of that caliber on our regular networks (snooze).

I also admire the UKs ability to promote women writers. I am a big fan of Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Sharon Horgan 🙂

Burnley123 · 41-45, M

@splishsplash Fleabag was great. Brutally honest and hard to watch but impossible not to! I only saw a small amount of All About Eve. Is it worth the time to binge?

splishsplash

@Burnley123 Most people think Killing Eve is dark and difficult to watch but I found it amusing. I have no idea what that says about me?? 🤣😂

I really appreciate how the UK is not obsessed with perfect female roles. Motherland is another series that shows the imperfection of women (which I enjoy). In the US we are obsessed with Botox and boob jobs. The UK shows women (Of all ages) wrinkles and all. I was watching Before We Die (with Lesley Sharp) and I was thinking how refreshing it was to see a middle aged women look her age.