I came across an article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel yesterday about a new show on the Sundance Channel called "Nimrod Nation." The show is a documentary about the people of Watersmeet, MI, a small town in the U.P.
The show is called "Nimrod Nation" because the town's high school basketball team is nicknamed the "Nimrods." (The name Nimrod is derived from the legendary hunter in the Old Testament.) The show centers much of the story around the town and the basketball team.
After watching the show, here's a few comments:
Depiction: One could argue that this show reaffirms the stereotype of the U.P. Whether or not that's good or bad, I'm not sure.
A. Language: Everyone speaks in a northern accent. This a documentary, so it's probably pretty hard to change that factor. However, I think there is something to be said that the media often stereotypes people with southern/northern accents in negative lights.
B. Weather: The first episode was stereotypical winter, lots of snow, etc. Maybe there will be change of seasons in future episodes.
C. Class: The show follows characters who are, overall, middle-lower class.
D. Lifestyle: There is very much a family-centered theme throughout this show. Drastically different than many mainstream shows that focus on careers and relationships. I'm not saying the show is family-friendly to watch, however.
In closing, "Nimrod Nation" was a relatively entertaining and interesting show. I question, however, what the residents think of it. Does it accurately portray Watersmeet?
Here's a clip from the first episode:
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