Entertaining Illusions: How Indonesian Élites Imagine Reality TV Affects the Masses

Abstract

Among the new genres of Indonesian television broadcasting, real-life crime and supernatural reality TV are of particular interest, because they were exceptionally popular for a time and aroused grave concern among intellectuals and the political e´lite. A close examination of both kinds of programming, however, suggests that their narrative structure is largely conservative and about reaffirming the social order against threat. In which case, why are e´lites so worried about such programmes? An analysis of broadsheet commentary reveals some remarkable preconceptions among the e´lite about the masses in Indonesia. Finally, a consideration of how Indonesians understand and engage with theatre*and so potentially television*indicates previously unconsidered radical possibilities.