It's time for one of our infrequent forays into covering the abyss known as American television. Everything has been dumbed down to the point that you might be tempted to think Pamela Anderson is running the news divisions. Once reputable networks like The History Channel now cater to the wing-nut fringe with endless specials that cater to folks who believe they are routinely being abducted by UFOs or encountering literal manifestations of angels or vampires. Don't think you can find much solace in the political spectrum, either. Some very highly-rated talk show hosts have been violating any sense of ethics by doing "news reports" about the soaring value of gold and why consumers should invest. "Coincidentally" these programs are sponsored by firms that sell gold investments to suckers at home at rates that consumer advocates say is over 200% of the actual value. All of this is sandwiched in between seemingly endless ads for pills that improve sexual performance, but at the risk of enduing a 30-year erection or projectile vomiting as minor side-effects. The audience has become so undemanding that there is a hit show about a man who literally bakes extravagant wedding cakes. However, instead of hearing me rant about the sorry state of
the medium, it's best to read the words of Variety critic Brian Lowry
who poignantly takes on what he calls the "Wackadoodle" state of
America's cable networks.As Lowry points out, the insane media world personified by Network's raving anchor man Howard Beale is now upon us. Some of us may be mad as hell but it looks like we'll have take it for many years to come. Click here to read (This article links to Variety and you may have to register as a reader in order to have access.)