On Tele"V"ision

04Nov09
Just when you thought the mainstream media was hopelessly in the tank for the left, ABC's satirical remake of the 1984 miniseries "V", takes aim at Obama mania.

Satire (sat-ire) n. - The use of irony, sarcasm, or ridicule in exposing or denouncing vice, folly, etc. Caricature, parody.

Satire has always been at the leading edge of political commentary. In its general usage, it refers to forms of speech in which vice or folly are ridiculed. It emphasizes the weakness of character more than the weak person, and is corrective in its purpose. It holds up a mirror to us, so that we can see just how silly we look.

The premise is that a race of aliens that call themselves "Visitors" come to earth, lead by a charismatic leader that captures the affection of all but a vocal minority of humanity, by controlling media coverage and refusing to be interviewed unless she is portrayed in a positive light.

The aliens profess to come in peace, bearing cultural change, technological advancement and universal health care. All the aliens wish in return is a few unnamed resources that we probably won't miss anyway, and the trust of humanity. The result is an instant cult of personality, a state of worship the main characters refer to as "devotion".

"We're all so quick to jump on the bandwagon," One character aptly puts it "A ride on the bandwagon, it sounds like fun. But before we get on, let us at least make sure it is sturdy."

Thinly veiled though it may be, the commentary rings true. It is like bread to the famished for an ever increasing segment of the population that's waking up to the reality of the socialist euphoria gripping America.

It may be my new favorite show. Watch "V" Tuesdays at 7 central on ABC.