I’m a big TV guy. But I’m not a fan of comedies. I watch dramas. And only two crime shows because they’re all so fake and illogical. I feel the need tonight to talk to you about American Crime. I can’t remember if I’ve written about it on here before or not, but it is extraordinary. The season 2 finale aired tonight. I won’t get into specific details about the story or the cases involved. But I do want to tell you the kinds of things the show makes a point to address.
American criminal justice system.
Homophobia.
Racism.
Rape.
Gun violence.
Victim shaming.
Right to privacy.
Class system.
Drug use.
Bullying & cyberbullying.
Suicide.
High school.
Entitlement.
Public and private education.
I’m sure there are themes that are directly addressed I’m just not thinking of at the moment. But this show is so much more than just about crime. I tweeted immediately after I finished watching the finale.
There was no exaggeration when I wrote that. This is the kind of show that gives you an idea as to how someone like Donald Trump could become a front runner to be President of the United States. It’s because of the ideas and ideologies not much different from the show’s characters. But what the show really does well is it (in my opinion) gives great insight into different perspectives from different groups of people. People in power. Minorities. Victims of crimes. Teens. There are so many different perspectives on things that most people only pretend to understand. And there are so many perspectives that are completely ignored. To me, THAT’S what the show is all about. Perspectives.
Look. There are plenty out there who refuse to believe in reality. There are plenty of people who blatantly deny reality. But American Crime is as real as any thing you can see or feel for yourself. There are A LOT of bad shows on TV right now. There are A LOT of mediocre shows on TV right now. There are some good ones. But there are very few truly remarkable shows on the air right now. American Crime is one of those shows that is simply more than a TV show. It’s a message to every viewer in every episode. It’s a portrayal of American life. It’s real.
I only see the two seasons available for purchase from Amazon. They may be available from other retailers like Google or Apple, but Amazon has both seasons available to be purchased for $19.99. But most of the second season can be streamed through ABC.com, the Watch ABC app, or ABC on Demand. I’m not going to sit here and tell you how you should spend your money. The first season was nominated for awards every which way. And I imagine season 2 will be no different.
Have you watched American Crime?
Johnny Reads 
Doesn’t seem to be available here, John, though as the first series did so well, one of our broadcasters may well pick it up eventually. Sounds extraordinary and painful to watch. But worth the discomfort?
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Oh no. I wouldn’t say it’s painful. I’d probably say it’s eye opening. Because it’s much too easy for people to live in their perfect little worlds without realizing or caring what other groups of people are experiencing. But the show puts it right in your face. And doesn’t (in my opinion) give anything but reality. It’s a story of American character, and how flawed it can quickly become.
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I’m sure it’s relevant to most western societies, too – there’s hidden deprivation and prejudice everywhere. Sounds like a programme with a message.
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It definitely is.
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Not on Netflix. But I’ll keep it in mind for when it is.
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I know. I checked. I’m not sure if it will be or not. I haven’t seen it available to stream anywhere.
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