Concept TV: An Aesthetics of Television Series

Television series are conceptual narratives that manifest through episodes and seasons, similar to works of conceptual art. They are evaluated differently than films, with some apparent flaws being aesthetic merits when considered from a conceptual perspective. To maximize their aesthetic value, television series should be assessed in a distinct conceptual framework.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

A television series is a captivating form of storytelling that unfolds through a series of episodes and seasons, creating a rich and immersive narrative experience. While this definition is widely accepted, Luca Bandirali and Enrico Terrone challenge it in their book "Concept TV: An Aesthetics of Television Series." They argue that television series are not merely a collection of episodes but are conceptual entities that manifest themselves through the episodes and seasons, much like works of conceptual art can be experienced through installations or performances. In essence, a television series is a conceptual narrative, a framework for constructing similar narratives. While film viewers engage with narratives primarily through images and sounds, television viewers rely on a combination of images and sounds to grasp the conceptual narrative being expressed. This fundamental difference between television and film sets the stage for a unique aesthetics of television series that embraces its alleged prolixity, repetition, and lack of narrative closure.

Bandirali and Terrone delve into the evaluation of television series, highlighting that certain perceived flaws can be viewed as aesthetic merits when considered from a conceptual perspective. They argue that television series offer a distinct form of storytelling that challenges traditional narrative structures and encourages viewers to engage with the material on multiple levels. By adopting a conceptual framework for assessing television series, one can unlock their full aesthetic value and appreciate the intricate ways in which they engage with audiences.

In conclusion, a television series is more than just a collection of episodes; it is a conceptual narrative that manifests itself through episodes and seasons. By understanding the unique aesthetics of television series and adopting a conceptual framework for evaluation, one can appreciate the depth and complexity of these narratives and the ways in which they engage with audiences.

Weight: 222g
Dimension: 229 x 153 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498597586