Pop Culture Yay

You know that expression, “the greatest thing since sliced bread”? Well what’s so great about sliced bread? Have we learned nothing from Hollywood? Carbs=Satan. I think the new standard in excellence is the creation of television series on dvd. Hours of endless fun in one little box. Not sold on the life changing effects of the boxed set? Let me introduce you to my family.

“Imagine if you had to wait before watching the next episode?!” my mom exclaimed after our 6th episode of Veronica Mars. ”You mean the way normal people do?” I responded. 

Three days prior, my sister mailed season 1 to my mother and me. I was sure I wouldn’t like the show. Well, ok, maybe I would like it. I like all television. But, I wouldn’t become addicted.  I’ve already had my fill of WB/CW/UPN series. 

Um, yeah right.  Who was I kidding? Not only is it Nancy Drew meets the OC (moment of silence for the recent cancellation announcement), but it was the entire season at my fingertips.  If it hadn’t been for the immediate accessibility of the next episode, I would’ve quit after the guest star appearance of Paris Hilton. The wonderful relationship I have created with the residents of Neptune would’ve prematurely ended.

But it didn’t. Thanks to disc 2.  

My fate as a Veronica Mars addict was sealed when my mother got on board. No one is better at TV marathons then my mom. 12:30am? We still have time for one more, right?

“Mom, I have work at 9.”

“I know sweetie we shouldn’t….but if we skip the opening credits, its not that long”

For that very reason, I have no idea what comes after “A long time ago, we used to be friends…”

As a person writing on a pop culture website, I recognize that the tv dvds may hinder my ability to tackle up-to-the-minute pop culture issues. I will always be a few seasons behind. (Anyone heard of this great new show called 24? Apparently there is an impending nuclear attack and this guy Jack Bauer has to stop it! Sounds like a winner…) Also, tv dvds have seriously impaired my social life. Wanna go to an early movie tonight? I’d love to, but I can’t. I have to watch 8 hours of television with my mom. It seem Logan kissed Veronica, and well, it’s imperative that I’m there to learn what happens. The benefit of dvds, such as the fact that it means I can watch it any time, goes out the window. Because it’s on dvd means I must watch it. And I must watch it now.

In a way, tv dvds have helped my productivity as a student, because I have avoided addiction to several shows. I know my television viewing habits. It I watch one episode, especially a pilot, then I am hooked (Studio 60 being the exception). Therefore, I allow myself to watch no episodes, knowing that I can simply rent the entire series at a later date. This is the way I have been able to avoid severe addiction to the potent series Grey’s Anatomy and 24. However, such delayed gratification can indeed be dangerous to someone of my condition. For example, you help a heroin addict quit cold turkey. No more drugs. Then, summer rolls around and you say, “Here are lots of drugs. All for you. Whenever you want. Now, I know you love heroin, so here is some marijuana and cocaine for your enjoyment as well. I think you will like them.” 

Hi, my name is addict. The Office is my heroin. Veronica Mars and 24 are my experimental drugs.

Experiment successful.

After pondering my revelations on boxed sets, I have found that there is probably only one answer. It is going to be a big change, not only for me, but for my whole family. In fact, we may even need outside help in setting up this plan of action. But, something must be done. And, you have to know when to ask for help.  

The answer?

 

 

TiVo.  

 

 

 

Posted on January 4th, 2007 by Lindsay
Filed under: Uncategorized