Review of "Cue the Sun!: The Invention of Reality TV" by Emily Nussbaum

 Review of "Cue the Sun!: The Invention of Reality TV" by Emily Nussbaum (Pics: Goodreads.com)

BOOKS.BIZ.ID - Emily Nussbaum’s "Cue the Sun!: The Invention of Reality TV" is a meticulously researched and thought-provoking exploration of a genre that has become a defining aspect of modern pop culture. As a Pulitzer Prize-winning television critic, Nussbaum delves deep into the origins and evolution of reality television, uncovering its roots, its impact, and the ethical questions it raises. This book is not just a history; it’s a cultural analysis that reveals how reality TV has shaped—and been shaped by—society.

The Origins of Reality TV

Nussbaum begins her journey by tracing the unexpected origins of reality TV, a genre often dismissed as lowbrow or sensationalist. She highlights how various television formats like game shows, prank shows, soap operas, and clip shows gradually converged to create what we now recognize as reality TV. 

One of the most fascinating aspects of Nussbaum's narrative is her examination of early innovators such as Allen Funt, the creator of "Candid Camera," whose "reveal" technique set the stage for future reality formats. She also discusses the chaotic genius of Chuck Barris, known for "The Gong Show," and how his blend of unpredictability and audience participation became a blueprint for reality TV’s success.

The Rise of the Reality TV Revolution

The book takes readers through the seismic shift that occurred with the advent of "Survivor," a show that Nussbaum argues was the true catalyst for the reality TV explosion. She paints a vivid picture of the Hollywood gold rush that followed, as producers and networks scrambled to replicate the success of "Survivor." Nussbaum introduces us to key figures in this revolution, including Jon Murray, the co-creator of "The Real World," which she describes as the progenitor of the “docu-soap” format that would dominate the airwaves.

Nussbaum doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of reality TV's rise. She addresses the manipulative editing techniques—like the notorious "Frankenbite"—that create drama where none exists, and the moral outrage that many reality shows provoke. Yet, she also celebrates the genre’s ability to tap into authentic emotions, making viewers care deeply about people they’ve never met. This duality, she suggests, is what makes reality TV both compelling and controversial.

The Cultural Impact of Reality TV

As Nussbaum moves into the modern era, she explores the broader cultural implications of reality TV. She examines the "celebreality" boom of the early 2000s, where the lines between celebrity and reality star blurred, giving rise to a new breed of fame-seekers. Shows like "The Osbournes" and "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" are dissected to show how reality TV began to shape societal norms and expectations, especially regarding fame, wealth, and personal branding.

One of the most striking sections of the book is Nussbaum’s analysis of reality TV as a labor strike-breaker, where networks turned to unscripted content during the Writers Guild of America strike in 2007-2008. This period, she argues, solidified reality TV’s dominance in American entertainment, as it proved to be a cost-effective and endlessly renewable resource for networks.

Nussbaum also delves into the queer roots of Bravo, a network that became synonymous with reality TV through shows like "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" and the "Real Housewives" franchise. She argues that these shows played a significant role in mainstreaming LGBTQ+ culture, even as they perpetuated certain stereotypes.

The Dark Side of Reality TV

The book doesn’t ignore the more troubling aspects of reality TV’s influence. Nussbaum discusses "The Apprentice" and its role in the rise of Donald Trump, examining how the show’s portrayal of Trump as a decisive and successful businessman contributed to his political image. She argues that reality TV has a unique power to shape public perception, often blurring the lines between entertainment and reality in ways that can have real-world consequences.

Conclusion: A Genre That Defines an Era

In "Cue the Sun!," Emily Nussbaum presents a balanced, insightful, and deeply engaging account of reality TV. She neither condemns nor glorifies the genre; instead, she offers a nuanced exploration of its complexities. The book is filled with anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that bring the history of reality TV to life, making it a must-read for anyone interested in television, pop culture, or the ways in which media shapes our world.

Nussbaum’s writing is sharp and witty, making "Cue the Sun!" as entertaining as the shows it dissects. But more than that, it’s a critical examination of a genre that, for better or worse, has come to define much of contemporary culture. Whether you’re a reality TV aficionado or a skeptic, this book will leave you with a deeper understanding of how reality TV became a cultural phenomenon—and why it’s not going away anytime soon.

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