Is Law & Order becoming exploitative and monotonous?

Question

I still think it's a good show, but I am annoyed by how often they "rip from the headlines," which they admit to in their promotionals, their next story and episode. Are you also annoyed by it? They exploited the Jon Benet Ramsey story on Criminal Intent. They're going to exploit the Gibson screwup, and they'll probably exploit Steve Irwin's death. If you disagree, please tell me why.

Answer 1

I don't find "ripping from the headlines" so annoying (they've done it plenty in the past), but I can understand if you do. What I don't like is that investigation dramas (L&Os, CSIs, others) are competing with each other by bringing out interpersonal drama to drum up interest (the oohs and ahs of who is hooked up with whom). I loved to watch L&O for McCoy's summations. Now, we're often short changed on the "procedures" of this "procedural" show.

Answer 2

I'm an SVU fan. I used to be into the original when I was a kid but I get a bit bored with it now. I never really looked at the "ripped from the headlines" thing as being exploitative. Sometimes I enjoy watching something I know is based on a reality. For the most part it helps keep the series fresh.

I do wonder if it's really fair to represent the real life victims and criminals the way they do. What if I was was sent to jail for committing a gruesome crime and Law & Order used my story for an episode? Say I was actually innocent but the world saw that Law & Order episode and they remember me as being guilty. It would just make everything a bit worse for me. Even without trying, they're helping to sway the public opinion and I think that can be a little dangerous.

Answer 3

I agree with you. The problem is they've been on about 15 (or more) years, have how many spin offs? So in literal terms, it really has all been done before so that leaves them with only headliner stories. Unfortunatly some of it is pretty tacky. And just for the record i'd say the CSI franchise is heading that way too, you can only extend so far.

Answer 4

im not sure but the show is great and the exploitation of things that have really happen is what making the story even better. TV today is about reality not make believe.

Answer 5

I agree, but I also think that there is good reason. There are only so many twisted things they can think up before it becomes ridiculous, and I think bringing in current events makes people understand it a bit more. I also think it makes people think a bit and appreciate what is happening in society more than something they don't believe would be possible.

Answer 6

Yes.

Answer 7

not sure