Between Habit and Thought in New TV Serial Drama: Serial Connections

Serial Connections explores the aesthetics, technology, and capitalism that shape serial television drama, presenting it as a finely engineered cultural production. It critically investigates the strategies deployed by producers to navigate the dynamic shaped by the new spirit of capitalism, offering meaningful insights into the experience of being in this world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Serial Connections is a comprehensive exploration of notable examples of serial television drama accessible through transnational streaming platforms in recent times. Through the in-depth examination of individual works, the book showcases the intricate interplay between aesthetics, technology, and capitalism in the production of these television series, presenting them as meticulously crafted cultural productions. Drawing upon Bernard Stieglers notion of image warfare, the author critically examines the strategies employed by the showrunners to navigate this dynamic, shaped by the new spirit of capitalism. This analysis encompasses a harmonious blend of creativity, driven by a profound desire to captivate and hold attention, and a highly efficient drive propelled by algorithms and economic logic. By mapping the processes at play in the creation of high-value serial drama, the author delves into how these tensions are managed, yet still provide meaningful insights into the human experience. A world marked by trauma, a yearning for justice, and a quest for belief systems that can guide us through the complexities of contemporary life, forms the backdrop for this exploration.

A detailed analysis of the various processes that shape these works is complemented by a sustained examination of popular serials such as Mr. Robot, Billions, The Leftovers, Rectify, and Westworld. Through this analysis, the reader is invited to witness the profound dynamics of despair and hope that ripple through these narratives. Serial Connections appeals to a wide range of readers, including those engaged in film and television studies, cultural theory, and those seeking to develop a critical aesthetics for our time. By delving into the intricate connections between habit and thought in serial television drama, this book offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of media production and consumption.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032156644