14 Things About Modern TV That Are Just Plain Annoying
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In the era of streaming services and prestige television, there’s no denying we have access to some of the best shows and performances in history. However, even with all this incredible content, some aspects of modern TV can still be frustrating and annoying. From how shows are released to the recurring tropes, here are 14 things about modern TV that can really get under your skin.
Binge-Watching Culture
While the ability to watch an entire season of a show in one sitting can be incredibly satisfying, it can also be overwhelming and exhausting. Binge-watching culture has created a sense of pressure to consume shows as quickly as possible, which can lead to burnout and a lack of appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each episode. Additionally, the constant need to “keep up” with the latest releases can make watching TV feel more like a chore than a leisure activity.
Cliffhangers and Unresolved Plotlines
In the age of serialized storytelling, cliffhangers have become a staple of modern TV. While a well-executed cliffhanger can be thrilling and leave viewers eager for more, too often they feel like cheap attempts to create artificial suspense. Even worse is when a show is cancelled before it has a chance to resolve its plotlines, leaving viewers frustrated and unsatisfied. It’s understandable that not every show can tie up every loose end, but it’s still annoying when a series ends without providing any sense of closure.
Product Placement
Product placement has been a part of TV for decades, but in recent years it seems to have become more blatant and intrusive than ever before. From characters conspicuously using name-brand technology to entire plotlines revolving around a particular product or service, it can be incredibly distracting and take viewers out of the story. While it’s understandable that shows need to find ways to generate revenue, there’s a fine line between subtle integration and outright shilling.
Unlikeable Characters
In the era of prestige TV, there has been a trend towards creating complex, morally ambiguous characters who are often difficult to root for. While this can lead to some fascinating storytelling, it can also be frustrating when a show’s protagonist is so unlikeable that it’s hard to care about their journey. It’s one thing to create a flawed character who still has redeeming qualities, but when a show expects viewers to invest in someone who is consistently selfish, cruel, or just plain annoying, it can be a tough sell.
Inconsistent Pacing
Pacing is one of the most important elements of storytelling, and when it’s off, it can make even the most promising show feel like a slog. Unfortunately, many modern TV shows struggle with inconsistent pacing, often due to the pressure to stretch out storylines over multiple seasons. This can lead to episodes that feel like filler, with little to no plot progression or character development. On the flip side, some shows try to cram too much into each episode, resulting in a breakneck pace that leaves little room for nuance or depth.
Predictable Twists
In the age of social media and online speculation, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for shows to truly surprise their audiences. As a result, many modern TV shows rely on predictable twists and turns that feel more like checking off boxes than genuine storytelling. Whether it’s the “surprise” death of a major character or a last-minute reveal that anyone could see coming, these moments often fall flat and leave viewers feeling like they’ve seen it all before.
Overuse of Tropes and Clichรฉs
Tropes and clichรฉs are an inevitable part of storytelling, but when they’re overused or relied upon too heavily, they can make a show feel stale and unoriginal. From the “will they/won’t they” romantic subplot to the “bad guy who’s not really bad” twist, there are certain tropes that seem to pop up in every other show these days. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with using familiar story elements, it’s important for shows to find ways to subvert or reinvent these tropes in order to keep things fresh and engaging.
Excessively Dark and Gritty Tone
In the wake of shows like “The Sopranos” and “Breaking Bad,” there has been a trend towards increasingly dark and gritty storytelling in modern TV. While this can lead to some powerful and thought-provoking moments, it can also become exhausting and depressing when every show feels like a relentless slog through misery and despair. Sometimes, viewers just want to watch something that makes them feel good, and the constant barrage of bleakness can be a real turnoff.
Lack of Diversity and Representation
Despite some progress in recent years, modern TV still has a long way to go when it comes to diversity and representation. Too often, shows center around the same types of characters and stories, leaving entire communities and experiences underrepresented or ignored entirely. This not only does a disservice to viewers who crave more diverse and inclusive storytelling, but it also limits the creative potential of the medium as a whole.
Endless Reboots and Revivals
In the age of nostalgia-driven content, it seems like every beloved show from the past is getting a reboot or revival. While some of these projects can be fun and engaging, others feel like little more than cynical cash grabs designed to capitalize on viewers’ fond memories. Even worse is when a reboot or revival fails to capture the magic of the original, leaving fans disappointed and disillusioned.
Overly Complex Mythologies
In the era of serialized storytelling, many shows have become increasingly reliant on complex mythologies and sprawling universes. While this can create a rich and immersive viewing experience, it can also be incredibly confusing and alienating for casual viewers. When a show requires a detailed understanding of its lore and backstory in order to follow along, it can be frustrating for those who just want to tune in and enjoy a good story.
Cancelations and Unfinished Stories
One of the most frustrating things about modern TV is the constant threat of cancellation. With so many shows competing for viewers’ attention, even critically acclaimed series can struggle to find an audience and get renewed for additional seasons. This can leave fans devastated when a show they love is cancelled before its time, often with unresolved storylines and unanswered questions. While it’s understandable that not every show can run forever, it’s still a bitter pill to swallow when a series ends prematurely.
Lack of Originality and Risk-Taking
In an increasingly crowded and competitive landscape, many TV networks and streaming services seem hesitant to take risks on truly original and innovative content. Instead, they often rely on proven formulas and familiar ideas, resulting in a sea of shows that all feel a bit too similar. While there are certainly exceptions to this rule, it can be frustrating for viewers who crave something new and different.
Poor Streaming Quality and Buffering Issues
Finally, in the age of streaming, there’s nothing more annoying than settling in to watch your favorite show only to be met with poor video quality, constant buffering, or other technical issues. While these problems are often outside of a show’s control, they can still have a major impact on the viewing experience and make it difficult to fully engage with the story.
15 Annoying Trends Everyone Secretly Hates
15 Annoying Trends Everyone Secretly Hates