2. Definition
A scripted reality is a television series which includes real
people who talk naturally but are put in situations which are
pre-planned by the producers for our entertainment.
These people are not professional actors and actresses.
Examples of scripted realities include The Only Way is Essex
and Made in Chelsea.
Made in Chelsea example:
http://www.e4.com/chelsea/series4/videos/trailers.html
The Only Way is Essex example:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZltCVxfroA&feature=rel
ated
3. London Bridge, one of the most iconic
structures in the city is featured in the
Carousel: Only ever seen in fairs
trailer so the audience knows exactly
or circuses, which connotes that
where the show is set. Audience can
MIC Annotations the characters lives are wild and
identify it is a Made in Chelsea trailer.
exciting.
Male cast are all wearing smart shirts
Sponsored by Rimmel Skateboard: Characters are rich, have and trousers, connotes affluence.
London, expensive but also nothing to do so take up hobbies such Whilst the females are wearing
based in London where the as skateboarding. Also suggests that expensive frocks, creating a feel of
show is set, creating a this character in particular is not to be escapism for the female viewer, in
connection between the two. taken too seriously. awe of the expensive clothes on set.
4. TOWIE Annotations
Designer clothes: Connotes that
the women have a rich lifestyle.
ALL characters are extremely
well groomed, care about their
appearance more than they
usually would in real life. This is
a common convention in
scripted realities.
Carrying dogs: Breed of dog
suggests characters are quite
well off and live a life of
extravagance.
Pub setting contrasts the idea
that the characters are very well
off, and shows they can do
normal stuff like everyone else.
5. Cast Stereotypes
Female: Lots of make-up, expensive
dresses and accessories, long dark or
blonde hair, normally attractive.
Stereotypically quite bitchy, which
creates most of the drama on the
show via fall outs and confrontations.
Male: Usually well groomed, fit into
the chiselled, aesthetically pleasing
look. Normally competes with other
guys to get the girl; with dramatic
effect.
6. Typical storylines
• Stereotypical storylines of scripted realities usually focus on
matters which the audience find themselves in too, this is
why viewers can gain a strong affiliation to certain cast, as
they understand their situation. Common conventions of
scripted realities in terms of storyline are usually as followed;
affairs, break ups, jealousy, sex, family problems, fights and
love.
7. Mise En Scene
Location – Generally set in big cities with renowned
nightlife, this sets the scene. For example; London, Newcastle
and the county Essex. The houses express the characters
affluence and status. Bars and clubs are often the set to a lot
of scenes in scripted realities.
Clothes – Expensive designer clothes which allows the feel of
need for material goods from the viewer. Also allows for
escapism for the audience to enjoy, looking at the clothes
they cant necessarily afford.
Props – Props shown in reality TV shows are generally of
expensive nature. For example flash and expensive cars are
typical in TOWIE.
8. Lighting
Lighting in scripted realities is used to set the scene. For
example, if there is a break up or argument, the lighting will
be dark to connote sadness. In contrast, if there is a scene
where a pair get together for example, the lighting will be
bright and vibrant giving off a positive up beat feel.
High key lighting is often shown too. This insinuates riches
and glamour. Special effects are not used for realism.
The introduction to The Only Way is Essex sees the lighting
create a diamond effect. This further connotes the status and
wealth the characters possess, as diamonds are associated
with the rich and powerful.
9. Sound
Non-diegetic sound tends to be in the background
throughout. Up to date, modern, relative music is usually
played. Music which the target audience listen to should be
heard. For example Nicki Minaj is played a lot in The Only
Way is Essex.
The non-diegetic sound matches the scene. For example;
Adele was played during a break up scene in TOWIE last
series.
Diegetic sound is also used throughout to create a feel of
realism. Sounds such as the radio and traffic are obvious
examples of background sound not edited out.
10. Camera Work
Close up’s are a regular convention of scripted realities. These
are not only used to show the characters facial expression but
also show their beauty close up. Especially for the female
cast, as showing their make-up and beauty close up is a key
code of scripted realities.
Overall though, the camera work is simple yet effective, as
they attempt to create a genuine real scene for the viewer.
The cast never look into the camera as this is supposed to be
real life.
11. Product Placement
Synergy between the scripted reality and a product is often
shown, this is known as product placement. Companies pay to
have their product included in the show.
An example of this was BlackBerry’s product placement in
Made in Chelsea last series.
This product placement implies Made in Chelsea’s target at
young, sociable people; who feel the need for material goods
and keeping up with the latest crazes.
12. Target Audience
The general profile of the target viewer is young people.
Overall women are more likely to watch than men, however
men are still known to enjoy them. The average age of most
viewers will be from around 14-30. This is around the ages of
the cast, the viewers can relate to the situations characters
find themselves in, therefore tune in each week. Below is a
mood board of the typical viewer. (Female/Male)
