Emily Nussbaum's new book, "Cue the Sun!: The Invention of Reality TV," goes into great detail about reality TV, which is often made fun of but has much power. This Pulitzer Prize-winning reviewer's work is a masterpiece that shows how the genre grew and changed society, culture, and even politics.
At the start of her story, Nussbaum talks about the history of reality TV, from the first radio show to today's huge hits like "Survivor" and "The Bachelor." Allen Funt of "Candid Camera" and Chuck Barris of "The Gong Show" are just two of the genre's pioneers, and she brings them to life through her thorough study and exciting writing. These early creators paved the way for a genre that would eventually capture millions of people worldwide.
The New York Times said that one of the best things about the book is how deeply it looks at how reality TV mixes high and low art. Nussbaum uses the term "dirty documentary" to describe this mix. She says these shows have a powerful blend of real human feelings and made-up drama. This idea is clearly shown by her story of the premiere of "Survivor," which was a turning point for reality TV. Nussbaum talks about how these shows use real-life events to get real reactions, making a unique kind of honest and fake entertainment.
Nussbaum does not shy away from reality TV's darker sides. She discusses how the genre exploits people and creates moral problems, giving examples of abuse and manipulation. For instance, she talks about how "The Bachelor" takes advantage of contestants' emotional weakness and how Harvey Weinstein used "Project Runway" as a place to act predatorily. These revelations paint a dark picture of a business world ready to give up honesty for scores.
Nussbaum harshly talks about how reality TV can change reality when she discusses "The Apprentice." She shows how the show changed the public's view of Donald Trump, turning him from a failed investor to a serious presidential candidate. This section is especially interesting because it shows how reality TV affects people in real life. Trump's rise through "The Apprentice" shows how reality TV can change people's thoughts. Nussbaum calls it a "coup" with a "sinister outcome.
This book also honors the genre's pioneers, such as Jon Murray and Mary-Ellis Bunim, who wrote "The Real World." She talks about how they saw reality TV as a social experiment and how it brought problems like AIDS and LGBTQ+ rights into the public eye. This part of her story shows how the genre can affect society, even though it often falls for drama.
The issue of race in reality TV is one place where Nussbaum's analysis could go into more depth. Even though she talks about the problems non-White cast members have had, it is less in-depth or detailed than other parts of the book. Since the genre greatly impacts how people think and feel, looking at racial relations in more depth would have been helpful.
Even so, Kirkus Reviews said the book is a complete and informative look at how reality TV has changed over the years. The book is a must-read for fans and critics of the genre because Nussbaum can mix critical analysis with interesting storytelling. She shows how reality TV shows reflect and change our society and how reality TV shows mix reality and fiction.
Nussbaum's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand a form that has had a lasting impact on modern media. Through her sharp and caring lens, Nussbaum shines a light on the good and bad of reality TV, giving a complex, critical, and positive view. Whether one loves reality TV or hates it, this book is a great way to learn more about something that continues to interest and puzzle people.
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