Some of us love it, some of us hate it, but either way The Big Bang Theory has a thing or two to say about twentysomething sci-fi fans. Eight episodes into season three, SFX blogger Laura McConnell is still loving it - today, she looks at geek stereotypes in the show and why she enjoys them:
The Big Bang Theory - A Lighter Look at Fandom
It seems that in sci-fi circles, The Big Bang Theory evokes strong opinions. People either love this show or can’t stand it. While I freely admit that I’m one of the former crowd, but I understand the latter opinion.
I get it. I really do. The Big Bang Theory isn’t science fiction. It’s not fantasy or horror, either. So I understand those folks who say that SFX shouldn’t cover the show (and it’s not mentioned in the magazine) or those that simply aren’t interested in it because it is a sitcom and not the next big thing in sci-fi. Then again, it’s not supposed to be the next big thing. Big Bang isn’t about being dark or gritty. It’s not trying to portray serious drama involving flawed heroes or any of the other currently fashionable trends in science fiction. No, The Big Bang Theory has the gall to be light and silly. It’s supposed to make us laugh. And apparently, it does so well. Enough of us sci-fi types find it funny enough to talk about it on the SFX forum and thus I’ve been allowed to discuss it here on the SFX site.
I know that some will argue this. They will say that Big Bang is not funny and in fact does nothing but poke fun at every geek cliché out there and thus is actually insulting to its supposed fan base. While I can understand that opinion, I do not agree with it.
Yes, Big Bang furthers some geek stereotypes. Sheldon Cooper, who is by far the best character on the show, thanks in large part to the comedic genius that is Jim Parsons, is socially inept and seems to only wear tee-shirts of a scientific or superhero nature. This does not resemble the typical real-world sci-fi fan, I know. We are so much more than that. But other things do resemble real life.
Sheldon gets upset when he has to go without internet. Who among us can’t relate to that?
He bemoans the fact that he missed Comic Con and the new Star Trek movie. Wouldn’t that upset you?
He and his friends ponder such mysteries as how Superman can catch Lois Lane in midair and not transect her with his arms as she falls at high velocity if he truly is the man of steel. You can’t tell me you’ve never had this conversation. Or go ahead and claim you haven’t if you must. Just rest assured I won’t believe you. Want to know why?
Because I love the internet. And I would’ve been really bummed if I’d had to back out of Dragon*Con or miss Star Trek on the big screen. I’ve had some fine conversations about physics in comics. I see more than a bit of myself in Sheldon (and the other characters), and I can’t help but laugh at the ridiculousness of their actions because it is the same insanity that mine sometimes display.
I’m no world-class scientist. I wear plain-colored scrubs to work. I’m pretty sure I can hold my own in social situations. I would never throw out perfectly good French toast just because it was oatmeal day, like Sheldon did in a recent episode, but you can bet your last pound that I go by my local comic shop on Wednesdays, just like the Big Bang gang, to pick up new issues.
I enjoy seeing that part of my life made extreme on television. I am completely comfortable with that aspect of my personality being gently made fun of. It makes me laugh at my TV and at myself. The quality acting, especially by Parsons, that makes the characters not seem like the caricatures they could so easily be and the roughly millions of references to other shows and comics don’t hurt my enjoyment of this show, either.
And when Wil Wheaton guest starred a few weeks ago in a true parody of all things Trek fan and Star Trek II, well, it just doesn’t get any better than that.
So who’s with me? Who can handle a little light fluff being thrown into this current universe of darker is better? Who among us is brave enough to handle the intentionally ridiculous? I know I am. Bring it on.
What's next? Humorous sitcoms about people in wheelchairs, making fun of the fact that they can't get up stairs? Or how about a comedy show about the BNP? That should get a few chuckles, especially from the types who like to flush peoples' heads down the bog...
Posted by PJ Bottoms (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 04:46 PM GMT #
BTW, PJ I understand that you don't like it. Humour that works for some people can be like scratching a chalk board to others. But wheelchair vs. stairs was pretty funny when they did it on The Office.
Posted by Henrik's (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 04:52 PM GMT #
Posted by Tim (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 05:09 PM GMT #
Which brings me to Henrik. You are quite right. Humor is something that is very individual. And the line about "Trials and Tribblations" was absolutely classic! Who in their right mind would turn off that episode?
I must admit that the last few episodes haven't been quite as good for me, but they are still funny enough (to me) to warrant watching.
Posted by Laura Mc (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 06:07 PM GMT #
Posted by richard (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 06:53 PM GMT #
Posted by Colin Cooper (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 07:02 PM GMT #
I genuinely don't believe it's poking fun at us. There are so many nods, wink and in-jokes that I personally feel it's laughing with us, not at us. I feel like it gets us (even if the nature of comedy means it has to exaggerate some of the geek stereotypes). Whilst some of us don't necessarily fit into the 'geek stereotype', how many of us don't know someone who does?? Hey, maybe it's soaring popularity in the US (I understand it's now the number 1 sitcom?) might raise geek awareness and help the geek cause? After all, most of the characters in the show are pretty likeable.
Posted by Chrismk (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 08:02 PM GMT #
I certainly understand the vast differences in taste and humour out there, so I'm not trying to convert anyone. I would like to say, however, that comedy often is about taking quirks and exaggerating them, so we can feel comfortable at recognizing pieces of ourselves and relating to characters, but still laugh at them. I wouldn't equate nerdish tendencies to handicaps, either. For one thing, many of our geeky affectations are a result of choices we've actively made, not situations forced upon us by circumstance. For those portions of some of the characters that seem less under their control, like Sheldon's OCD ways, this show is hardly the first to make light of the problems those rigid rules can add to someone's life and social extroversion. Michael J Fox's character on "Scrubs", and to my undestanding, all of "Monk" for two.
While I agree it's not a "sci-fi" show, per-se, I equate it to "Spaced" somewhat in that it's a comedy about somewhat outrageous people, going about their lives, with some hilarious in-jokes and pop culture references that I find very rewarding to see.
And I really do get glazed over and miserable when my Internet goes down!
Posted by Beck (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 08:37 PM GMT #
Posted by GOZ (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 08:54 PM GMT #
Posted by Morf (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 09:26 PM GMT #
As a fan since season one I agree that there are some hit and miss moments but overall take it for the fun it is.
Where else could I enjoy a comedy that involves discussion about Kandorian drycleaners and have the entire history of Superma Comics explained in 15 seconds.
Posted by Jazz (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 09:36 PM GMT #
Posted by Joyous (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 09:49 PM GMT #
PJ, of course it's poking fun at geek culture, it's a comedy. The Office poked fun at Office Managers, and Fawlty Towers poked fun at hotel staff. Part of a healthy culture is being able to laugh at ourselves.
Personally, I'll take the jokes about not getting girls, if I can keep the joke about beating both Green Lanterns with a 2B pencil.
Also, if you don't think true geeks came up with Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard, Spock, you don't get down to the basement enough.
Posted by Tom Clarke (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 10:07 PM GMT #
As for your blind person analogy. Did you ever watch Mr. Magoo? Actually bad choice. It wasn't that funny.
Posted by Henrik's (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 10:15 PM GMT #
In the US there's Scrubs, which spends a great deal of its time laughing at the sick and the stressed. And Frasier, a show that never lets a multiple-personality joke pass by.
And lest we forget, Friends had that early episode with Phoebe's psychoanalyst boyfriend, where he analyses Ross, Monica and Chandler to the point where they all want him dead.
Why exactly should we exempt Sheldon's potential autism from being the butt of the joke, especially if he's successful despite it? That would be like saying we can't make jokes about David Brent because of the fact that he clearly has a paralysing need for the approval of others, or Barney Stimson because of everything that's wrong with him.
Actually, assuming that your diagnosis is accurate, Sheldon shows that you can have a productive and apparently happy life despite being autistic. He's got a good job, friends who care about him, and hobbies that allow him to manage his social interaction in a way he can handle.
Posted by Tom Clarke (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 10:31 PM GMT #
Posted by FreakyBeanz (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 10:31 PM GMT #
I think it is too easy to heap all the praise on Jim Parsons (he is fantastic as Sheldon, don't get me wrong), as the joy of the show for me is watching the guys together. The friendships between Sheldon, Leonard, Howard and Raj are endearing to say the least.
Yes, there are various stereotypes used in this show, but hey, that's what good comedy is based on. To the folks taking this point WAY too seriously - lighten up. I say, Thank God that this show exists. Ever since Friends finished, I can't honestly say that there has been much in the way of quality comedy to replace it, so this is just perfect.
I never thought for a second that Sheldon's "quirks" or characteristics had anything to do any kind of condition - some people are just very precise and controlled. All that has happened is that this aspect has been exaggerated in the writing. It's sad to think that there are people taking this point so seriously.
Long live BBT - always make me giggle.
BTW, Richard, your post needs a sarcasm sign.
Posted by Rose (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 10:51 PM GMT #
Posted by Dominic (127.0.0.1) on November 24, 2009 at 11:04 PM GMT #
Posted by Fabricatus (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 01:35 AM GMT #
Let's see...I think I'll respond from the bottom up. It's easier!
Fabricatus-I understand. It's getting late in my time zone now, come to think of it.
Dominic-good point. No preaching.
Rose-I concede your point on the others, but for me, Sheldon just rocks my world.
Tom Clarke-oh, you hit another nail on the head. Scrubs is one of my all time favorite shows. And I'm in medicine, so...yeah...
Henrick's-that's awesome to know. I had not idea that the AS community had embraced Sheldon like that. But Tom made a valid point about him. They should. He's an example of an AS person making it work for them.
Tom again-oh, laughing my butt off! So true about the Green Lantern joke, and RockScissorsPaperLizardSpock! Come to the basement, my friend!
Jazz/Beck/chrismk/Colin-exactly. And Colin? Long live The Guild! Greatness squared.
Posted by 127.0.0.1 on November 25, 2009 at 04:01 AM GMT #
Posted by Laura Mc (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 04:01 AM GMT #
Posted by Rob Cox (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 07:59 AM GMT #
I agree with Chrismk - I think there are too many in-jokes for the show to be poking fun at us. It's a well-written, tight show, with an excellent cast who are obviously having a ball.
And as a teacher, I have to say, the term 'geek' is no longer the huge insult it used to be. I hope shows like this are helping.
Posted by Angela Jade (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 08:19 AM GMT
Website: http://starwarschick.com #
I for one think this show is great. Catch it as much as I can and don't mind the little bit of poking fun at us geeks.
I hope this show carries on for as long as it can.
Take care,
Matty-lad
Posted by Matty-lad (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 10:30 AM GMT #
BTW Henrik you're right, the UK office did disabled people on the stairs in a totally hilarious way. The US Office is even better actually. Pant-wettingly funny. Unlike BBT. Sorry.
Posted by PJ Bottoms (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 11:19 AM GMT #
The only problem is Leonard's haircut. No one has hair that bad.
Posted by Freddie (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 11:27 AM GMT #
Posted by Henrik's (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 01:10 PM GMT #
I caught the odd episode on Channel 4 and initially did find it a bit patronising, but actually if you sit down and give it a chance the humour of it and the affection shown to all the characters is pretty sweet. And I loved the episode where Penny got addicted to the Warcrack equivalent - who couldn't relate to that? ;)
Posted by Narin (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 01:27 PM GMT #
Sheldon Cooper has to be one of my all time favourite characters on TV (and in a list that consists of Willow, Kara Thrace, Faith and Donna Noble) I think you see that its a hard list to break into for anyone with a pesky Y chromosome (but seeing as Sheldon is more likely to procreate through Osmosis I think thats okay) and Jim Parsons is a revelation in the role; at the same time arrogant, yet oddly innocent and childlike...
...sometimes the jokes miss the mark, and sometimes the stereotypes are a little 'old school' but The Big Bang Theory isn't (in my opinion) written/acted by people who are maliciously taking the proverbial out of Sci-fi, instead there are embracing it and giving it a little respect...which is more than can be said for a lot of current 'mainstream' sci-fi shows.
May The Big Bang Theory live long and....oh dear god kill me now...
Posted by 127.0.0.1 on November 25, 2009 at 02:37 PM GMT #
And, for the record, I find it very funny indeed.
Posted by Mentalist (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 02:39 PM GMT #
Posted by PJ Bottoms (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 03:09 PM GMT #
Posted by Greg Cox (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 03:12 PM GMT
Website: http://www.gregcox-author.com #
Fair play to you for explaining why you don't like the show, without referring to the usual 'it just sucks' that I see on the website all to often! (even if you are wrong) ;)
Posted by Chrismk (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 04:44 PM GMT #
Posted by mostmagicalcat (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 05:42 PM GMT #
Oh, and Mentalist, I used to do biochem research, and you are SO right. Universities are very odd places indeed.
Narin-I overheard a group of boys playing Rock/Paper/Scissors/Lizard/Spock a few months ago. They were about ten or eleven. I was so happy to see geeklings in action! (In fact, their little story is in my "to write" list...one day I'll get that done!)
Angela Jade-very cool about your son!
Rob Cox and Greg Cox-thanks! I agree!
Posted by Laura Mc (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 07:11 PM GMT #
Posted by Henrik's (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 07:32 PM GMT #
Posted by Chrismk (127.0.0.1) on November 25, 2009 at 07:58 PM GMT #
And Chrismk-you're right, though this trend has been happening for a long time. It's geek chic. Everyone knows it's cool to be a geek now. So much so that we have to deal with poseurs, like the "cool" kids did before. Honestly, the roles are totally reversed now. I think that athletes are now treated badly in the popular media. (Dumb jock needs nerd to do his homework for him, etc - the athletes I grew up with all did their own, thanks!) Funny how life goes like that. Cycles.
Posted by Laura Mc (127.0.0.1) on November 26, 2009 at 12:28 AM GMT #
You know, I hadn't actually made that connection about the way jocks are often portrayed, but you're right! Do you think this is because Hollywood writers/producers were picked on by jocks as kids and are now getting their revenge? ;)
Posted by Chrismk (127.0.0.1) on November 26, 2009 at 09:34 AM GMT #
Posted by Rob Cox (127.0.0.1) on November 26, 2009 at 10:27 AM GMT #
Incidentally, I answered this comment earlier today (and if I recall correctly, my answer was much wittier/I know I'm forgetting something), but it looks like it never posted. Perhaps I got the math wrong. I did play sports, you know, that's entirely possible. ;)
Posted by Laura Mc (127.0.0.1) on November 26, 2009 at 10:39 PM GMT #
Posted by Laura Mc (127.0.0.1) on November 27, 2009 at 03:48 AM GMT #
Posted by David (127.0.0.1) on November 27, 2009 at 04:17 PM GMT #