The O.C., A Critical Understanding, by Lori Bindig and Andrea M. Bergstrom, is a feminist cultural studies analysis of FOX's hit teen television drama The O.C. (2003-2007). Episodes of The O.C. are analyzed as a set of media texts that blur the boundaries between hegemonic and counter-hegemonic content. This analysis utilizes ancillary media such as director commentary in conjunction with content in order to understand how ideological content, in regards to gender, race, class, sexuality, and consumerism, is presented throughout the show. The O.C. is also examined in terms of audience analysis, auteur theory, aesthetics, and reality television spin-offs. Bindig and Bergstrom place The O.C. in a larger social context and explore the potential ramifications of popular media texts, as well as the series' cultural legacy which continues to resonate in media and culture.

About the Author
Lori Bindig is assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Media Studies at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut. Andrea M. Bergstrom is assistant professor of media studies in the Department of Mass Communication at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, New Hampshire.

Reviews
This engaging book fascinates with its detailed reading of The O.C., its well-grounded theory, and its numerous insights into the multiple spaces of television programming. The authors trace the program's historical trajectory, and understand that the medium shapes and is shaped by the youth culture it speaks to. -- Robin Andersen, Fordham University



Book Information
ISBN 9780739133163
Author Lori B. Bindig
Format Hardback
Page Count 242
Imprint Lexington Books
Publisher Lexington Books
Weight(grams) 503g
Dimensions(mm) 236mm * 159mm * 24mm