Understanding Mexican Television: The Role of Telenovelas and Beyond

I love México. I hate its television. Nothing good has come out of it in the last 30 years except maybe some Eugenio Derbez sit-coms. I live here and I am glad I have Netflix and I can get all the major channels from the US as well as HBO, CNN, and SyFy. However, I can't deny the impact of traditional Mexican television, particularly Telenovelas.

The Value of Mexican Television

TV in México is more than just entertainment; it's an incredible tool for understanding Mexican culture, society, and values. Many peoplearg that it's terrible, but that's often a matter of perspective. Just as how the The Simpsons might not appeal to everyone in Japan, Mexican television shouldn't be judged through the lens of one's own values and tastes.

Context and Audience

People who critique Mexican TV often do so from a western perspective, which isn't entirely fair. The shows are designed with the conditions, needs, and tastes of the audience in mind. For example, one of the complaints about telenovelas is that they are overacted, repetitive, and predictable. This makes perfect sense. People who watch them are often extremely tired and busy or prepared to do something at any time. If you are in a stand that sells food, you’ll have to be serving, preparing tortillas, and charging customers constantly. You can't afford to give 100% of your attention to the TV. Thus, the shows have to be crafted in a way that allows viewers to stop paying attention and still be able to pick up on the story easily when they return home.

Another criticism is that women in morning shows wear short skirts and high heels. This complaint is tied to another common criticism: Mexican TV is too sensationalist. Unlike in the US, where people have the time and energy to sit down and enjoy a story that builds up to a rewarding payoff over an hour, many Mexicans don't have the luxury of that. They need immediate payoffs. Titillation and shock are used to provide this payoff without requiring the audience to invest too much time. Unlike the US, women do not mind these shows. They laugh it off because they realize how silly it is for a low-class working man to think he can get such women.

Entertainment in Entertainment

At its core, Mexican television still serves as a form of entertainment for people who work in dull, repetitive jobs. If you spend nine hours making tortillas by hand, you’d also want some fun in the background. Entertainment is a necessary part of life, and Mexican TV provides that, especially for those who spend long hours doing mundane tasks.

Some Good Shows

There are some hidden gems within the sea of telenovelas. While I don't watch much Mexican TV, I can recommend a few shows that stand out:

El Chavo del Ocho: A classic and beloved sitcom that captures the heart and humor of Mexican culture. Maria de Todos los Angeles: If you want a clever parody of Mexican society, this show is it. The Family P. Luche is a mixed bag. While I can't stand the main actor, the rest of the cast really lifts the show. I recommend only the first two seasons.

Mexican television might not be everyone's cup of tea, but it offers a unique window into the lives, values, and culture of Mexico. Regardless of one's opinion, it's worth exploring to gain a deeper understanding of this vibrant and dynamic country.