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The following is the first in a series of essays written in response to the media analysis assignment described in the January 28, 2000 article on this topic page. Colorado State University student A.O.Carson examines the role of the Drew Carey Show in a culture of "constant deadlines and pressures from the corporate hierarchy."
In the middle of Cleveland, Ohio the scene is perfect to show the stereotypical corporate businessman. He enjoys his cubical located amongst a multitude of desks, chairs, and artificial walls. While apparently working on the same thing as always, this corporate employee seems to be having fun at work, he is even laughing, is that possible? Then in comes something out of the ordinary, a little different than what would normally appear in the everyday workplace. Her name is Mimi, a monstrosity who sports bright colorful clothing, and noticeable purple eye shadow. From across the room the sound echoes, "Domino's doesn't deliver where you are going, pig." One of the many friendly greetings between Mimi and her adversary the corporate employee. Her enemy is the everyday businessman, Drew Carey, a man who fights the status quo, employs a great sense of humor, and who is nver willing to back down from the threats of a fellow employee. In an age where corporations are taking over the business world, the American workforce is becoming increasingly unhappy with their lifestyle. Employees complain of being over-worked and under paid in addition to having very little time at home with the family. In addition to salary complaints, the current trend of relocating and possible downsizing only adds to workers' disenchantment with their jobs and with their lives. The poor attitude at work filters its way into the household arena, where it is most certainly not welcomed by the spouse and kids. While people are striving to be successful they are losing sight of the fact that fun and relaxation are important as well. While people are striving to be successful they are losing sight of the fact that fun and relaxation are important as well. While resisting the modern cultural condition of unhappiness at work and in life. The Drew Carey Show, illustrates that enjoying one's job and lifestyle is still possible. Constant deadlines and pressures from the corporate hierarchy assist in perpetuating unhappiness found amongst modern Americans. In addition to a high pressure job market, the requirement to raise children in a healthy manner can also promote a negative attitude toward life. Single moms and dads can find themselves stuck between both worlds. While working two jobs, usually low-paying, they must also support and provide for their children. Pressure and negativity can often stem from a difficult childhood and college career as well. As a student I am aware that many scholars must work part or full-time in order to pay for their education, being involved in clubs or sports only adds to the level of strain placed on a collegiate. Basically, life for all sorts of people is busy and full of responsibilities, and many Americans believe this is an excuse to be dissatisfied with life.
The copyright of the article A Critical Media Analysis of the Drew Carey Show in Media Literacy is owned by . Permission to republish A Critical Media Analysis of the Drew Carey Show in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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