Tuesday, 24 September 2013

David Attenborough: The Open Ocean


David Attenborough narrates many different episodes about the planet earth. This one in particular is about the open ocean. I think the target audience for this is quite broad - it targets both males and females around 18 upwards. This is because both genders may have an interest in the planet and the ocean and are interested specifically in the species found underwater, however it targets those more consciously who do.

There are two uses and gratifications this episode meets - information and entertainment. It meets the information use and gratification because those who watch it are being educated about certain species, their habitat and their certain characteristics. However, they are also being entertained because watching this programme may allow them to escape from reality and be engrossed in the nature that allows that escapism.

This episode has been specifically constructed because there would have been a lot of footage taken and they've most likely chosen the most beautiful, or the footage that allows the best view of what David Attenborough is explaining. It has been mediated so that the impression the audience gets is of the wonders of the ocean and an intrigue into what else there is. For those who have an avid interest in the subject, it may want them to visit under the ocean and see for themselves what's there rather than through a television screen. Another reason why the programme has been mediated like this is because I think there's an intention there for those who maybe aren't as interested in the subject, to develop an appreciation for it.

I think the values of the media producer are good - from the way David Attenborough narrates the episode and the way the footage has been shot, it shows he has an interest in the open ocean himself and I think he's just trying to educate others and show an insight into what's under there. I think his admiration of the ocean is clearly projected in this media piece.

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