Sunday, April 20, 2008

Northern Exposure Fans Only...

I found the final scene from the final episode of my favorite TV show of all time. If you're not a Northern Exposure fan, just skip this post because it won't have any real meaning for you.

After watching this tonight, it came to mind that this show probably wouldn't fly on network TV these days. If you've ever watched the likes of today's network TV dribble...a popular show like CSI:Miami... and, like me, found yourself wondering how such overly-stylized, outlandish, and cheezy entertainment made its way on the airwaves, you are not alone. Compare it to the subtle, textured, and allegorical story lines of Northern Exposure, and you just find yourself wondering...when did entertainment become soooo mediocre and unimaginative; so removed from the unpretentious beauty of day-to-day life?

The first time I watched this episode, I had just met my husband...so everything about this clip makes me smile. Such a happy, hopeful time. When Maggie dances with Chris, you really believe that she's finally, finally found the one. There was hope for me yet...

2 comments:

Adam H. said...

LEIGH,
I love this program. It is my favorite show of all time. I recorded every episode and have them on tape but some have been lost. They will eventually come out with all 6 seasons in 1 package and when they do I will buy it. Thanks for the reminder of how TV used to be! I was always impressed with how intelligently and culturally diverse they talked especially Chris In The Morning. And the natural beauty of their surroundings helped me a lot. When I first discovered I was an alcoholic this show really helped me with my anxiety attacks. I began watching this program while stationed in Germany for the US Army. I miss shows like this.

Leigh said...

Adam,

When I saw your name I smiled because as you know, Adam was a popular guest character on the very show we (and so many others) love so much. In fact, I would argue that Adam's character is one of the most imaginative and well written on the show. Given how creative the show is, that's really saying something!

It is true...NE really does have a calming effect. Joel, fraught with big city neurosis and chronic cynicism, eventually experiences an epiphany which results in his total rejection of the urban, professional ideal. High strung Joel becomes laid back mountain man. It seems certain that the mystical influences of Cicely, Alaska had a hand in his radical transformation from an insecure, ivy league doctor to a self actualized, hardscrabble hermit.

I hope you found sobriety and the peace that accompanies it. And by the way, thank you for your service!