La crisi del padre nelle serie cable statunitensi: i casi di "Mad Men", "Breaking Bad" e "In Treatment"

The article analyzes some screenwriting techniques used in the critically acclaimed U.S. cable Tv series Mad Men, Breaking Bad and In Treatment. It highlights the means by which viewers are induced to empathize with the protagonists of these series, who are all antiheroes, fathers in a middle age crisis. Firstly, the story is conceived around a clear thematic inspiration. The drama explores deeply and specifically a conflict between different set of values, which are at stake in every event and plot twist, making the audience feel that what happens to the character is relevant for them. Secondly, the story uses adversities to make the viewers feel pity for the protagonist. Thirdly, the story stresses a few positive traits of the character, arousing the admiration of the audience. It is especially effective the subtle underlining of the moral conscience which is still alive in the antihero, his tension towards being a decent person. This element arouses the hope for redemption, which never completely fails in the viewing experience. The article concludes observing that cable series like the ones taken into account, even though through negative cases, admit the importance of the value of family. On the other hand, it argues that, by giving a prolonged and unanimous depiction of the weakness of this value in contemporary society, they exercise a problematic cultural influence.