Unleashing The Cringe: Discovering The Best Of The Worst TV Tropes You Can't Help But Watch
From the Mary Sue to Jumping the Shark, explore the best of the worst TV tropes and see why they're so cringe-worthy.
When it comes to television shows, there are certain tropes that we've grown accustomed to seeing over the years. Some of these tropes are enjoyable, while others are downright unbearable. However, there are a few that are so bad that they're actually good. These are the best of the worst TV tropes that keep us coming back for more.
One of the most infamous tropes is the monster of the week formula that many shows use. In this trope, the main characters face a new monster or villain every week, with little to no overarching plot. While this can be frustrating in some shows, others have used it to great effect. Shows like Supernatural and Buffy the Vampire Slayer have used this trope to explore different types of monsters and create some truly memorable episodes.
Another trope that falls into the so bad it's good category is the love triangle. This is where two characters are vying for the affection of a third character, leading to a lot of drama and tension. While this trope can be overused and predictable, some shows have managed to make it work. The Vampire Diaries and Dawson's Creek both had successful love triangles that kept viewers invested in the characters' romantic struggles.
The will they, won't they trope is another fan favorite. This is where two characters have undeniable chemistry, but for one reason or another, they can't seem to get together. While this trope can be frustrating, it can also be incredibly satisfying when the characters finally do get together. Shows like Friends and The Office have used this trope to great effect, creating some of the most iconic TV couples of all time.
The fish out of water trope is another classic that can be hit or miss. This is when a character is placed in a situation or environment that they're not used to, leading to a lot of comedic misunderstandings. While this trope can be overused, some shows have managed to make it work. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and The Beverly Hillbillies both used this trope to explore class differences and create some hilarious moments.
The bottle episode trope is another that falls into the so bad it's good category. This is when an entire episode takes place in one location, usually due to budget constraints. While this trope can be limiting, some shows have used it to create some of their best episodes. Breaking Bad's Fly episode and Community's Cooperative Calligraphy are both examples of bottle episodes that are both entertaining and memorable.
The clip show trope is another that many viewers love to hate. This is when an episode consists of clips from previous episodes, usually as a way to save money. While this trope can be lazy, some shows have used it to create some truly funny and poignant moments. The Simpsons' So It's Come to This: A Simpsons Clip Show and Friends' The One with All the Clips are both examples of clip shows that managed to entertain viewers.
The very special episode trope is one that many shows have used to address serious issues. This is when an episode deals with a topic such as drug addiction, racism, or sexual assault. While this trope can be heavy-handed, some shows have used it to create powerful moments. Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Earshot and Boy Meets World's If You Can't Be with the One You Love... are both examples of very special episodes that handled their subject matter with sensitivity and nuance.
The flashback trope is another that can be either great or terrible. This is when an episode or scene takes place in the past, usually to provide backstory or context for the characters. While this trope can be overused, some shows have used it to great effect. Lost and How I Met Your Mother both used flashbacks to tell their stories in unique and interesting ways.
The spin-off trope is one that many viewers approach with skepticism. This is when a show creates a new series based on a character or concept from the original show. While spin-offs can be hit or miss, some have managed to carve out their own niche. Frasier and The Simpsons' The Simpsons Spin-Off Showcase are both examples of spin-offs that managed to stand on their own.
Finally, the jump the shark trope is one that many shows hope to avoid. This is when a show introduces a ridiculous plot or gimmick that marks the beginning of its decline. While this trope can be the kiss of death for a show, some have managed to recover after jumping the shark. The X-Files' ninth season and Happy Days' infamous shark-jumping episode are both examples of shows that managed to bounce back after a misstep.
Introduction
TV tropes are storytelling devices that have become common in television shows. They can be used for comedic effect or to create tension. Some tropes are well-loved by audiences, while others are considered overused and cliché. In this article, we will explore some of the worst TV tropes that have become synonymous with bad writing and lazy storytelling.
The Damsel in Distress
The damsel in distress trope has been a staple of television shows for decades. It involves a female character who is abducted or threatened, usually by a male villain, and must be rescued by a male hero. This trope is often criticized for perpetuating gender stereotypes and portraying women as helpless victims. In recent years, there has been a push for more complex and empowered female characters who can take care of themselves.
The Magical Minority
The magical minority trope involves a character from a marginalized group, such as a person of color or a member of the LGBTQ+ community, who possesses magical powers or abilities. While this trope can be used to highlight the struggles of marginalized groups, it can also be problematic. It can reinforce the idea that people from marginalized groups are inherently different and exotic, rather than normal and relatable.
The Token Friend
The token friend trope involves a character from a marginalized group who is included in the show for the sake of diversity, but is given very little development or screen time. This character is often used as a prop to make the show appear more inclusive, rather than being treated as a fully fleshed-out character. This trope can be especially frustrating for viewers who want to see more representation on screen.
The Love Triangle
The love triangle trope involves a romantic relationship between three characters, usually two love interests and a protagonist. This trope is often used to create drama and tension, but it can also be frustrating for viewers who are tired of seeing the same storyline over and over again. In some cases, the love triangle can even overshadow the main plot of the show.
The Unresolved Cliffhanger
The unresolved cliffhanger trope involves ending a season or series with a major plot point left unresolved, in order to create anticipation for the next installment. While cliffhangers can be effective storytelling devices, leaving too many loose ends can leave viewers feeling frustrated and unsatisfied. This trope has become especially common in recent years, as more shows are produced with the expectation of multiple seasons.
The Deus Ex Machina
The deus ex machina trope involves resolving a plot point or conflict through an unexpected or contrived means. This can include introducing a new character with a convenient set of skills, or having a character suddenly develop a new ability or power. This trope can be frustrating for viewers, as it can make the story feel cheap and unearned.
The Evil Twin
The evil twin trope involves a character who has an identical twin who is evil or morally corrupt. This trope can be used to create tension and conflict, but it is often seen as lazy writing. It can also reinforce the idea that people who look alike are inherently good or evil, rather than being complex individuals with their own motivations and personalities.
The Amnesia Plot
The amnesia plot trope involves a character who loses their memory, usually as a result of a traumatic event. This plot device can be used to create drama and tension, but it is often seen as cliché and overused. It can also be frustrating for viewers who want to see characters grow and develop over time, rather than having their memories erased and starting over.
The Time Jump
The time jump trope involves fast-forwarding the timeline of a show, usually by several years. This can be used to introduce new plot points and character developments, but it can also be jarring for viewers who have become invested in the story and characters. It can also make the show feel disjointed and disconnected from its earlier seasons.
The Dream Sequence
The dream sequence trope involves a character having a vivid dream that is often surreal or fantastical. This can be used to explore a character's subconscious thoughts and desires, but it can also be confusing for viewers who are unsure of what is real and what is not. It can also be seen as a cop-out, as it allows writers to explore plot points without actually having to move the story forward.
Conclusion
While TV tropes can be effective storytelling devices, they can also become overused and cliché. The tropes discussed in this article are some of the worst offenders, often leaving viewers feeling frustrated and unsatisfied. As audiences become more savvy and demanding, it will be interesting to see how writers adapt and evolve their storytelling techniques.
Best of the Worst TV Tropes: A Critical Look at Harmful StereotypesTelevision is a powerful medium that has the ability to shape our perceptions and beliefs. Unfortunately, many TV shows rely on tired tropes and harmful stereotypes that perpetuate negative ideas about certain groups of people. In this article, we will delve into some of the worst TV tropes and why they need to be retired.
The Damsel in Distress Trope: Why It Needs to Go
The damsel in distress trope is one of the oldest and most overused in television. It involves a female character who is helpless and in need of saving by a male protagonist. This trope reinforces the idea that women are weak and incapable of taking care of themselves.Moreover, this trope is often used to justify violence against women. The idea that a woman needs to be rescued by a man suggests that she is unable to defend herself, which can lead to victim-blaming and an overall lack of accountability for perpetrators of violence.In recent years, there has been a push to retire this trope. Many TV shows have introduced strong, independent female characters who do not need to be saved by men. This is a positive step forward in terms of representation and sends a message that women are capable of being heroes in their own right.The Love Triangle Trope: Overused and Predictable
The love triangle trope is another overused and predictable plot device in television. It typically involves two characters vying for the affection of a third character, leading to unnecessary drama and conflict.This trope reinforces the idea that romantic relationships are the most important aspect of a person's life. It also perpetuates the idea that women are objects to be won and that men must compete for their attention.Furthermore, this trope can be harmful to viewers who are struggling with their own romantic relationships. It can create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity.The Magical Minority Trope: Harmful Stereotypes in TV
The magical minority trope is a harmful stereotype that is often seen in fantasy and science fiction television. It involves a character who belongs to a marginalized group, such as a person of color, LGBTQ+ individual, or person with a disability, who possesses magical powers or abilities.This trope reinforces the idea that people who belong to marginalized groups are inherently different or exotic. It also suggests that their abilities or talents are a result of their marginalized status, rather than their own hard work and dedication.Furthermore, this trope can be harmful to viewers who belong to marginalized groups. It can perpetuate the idea that they are only valuable or interesting because of their differences, rather than their inherent worth as human beings.The Manic Pixie Dream Girl Trope: Why It's Time to Retire It
The manic pixie dream girl trope is a common one in romantic comedies and dramas. It involves a female character who is quirky, free-spirited, and exists solely to help the male protagonist find himself.This trope reinforces the idea that women exist solely to serve the needs and desires of men. It also perpetuates the idea that women who are not conventionally attractive or conformist are only valuable if they are able to help men become better versions of themselves.Moreover, this trope can be harmful to viewers who identify with the female character. It can create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.The Bury Your Gays Trope: The Harmful Pattern in TV Deaths
The bury your gays trope is a pattern in television where LGBTQ+ characters are more likely to be killed off than their straight counterparts. This trope reinforces the idea that LGBTQ+ lives are less valuable than straight lives.Furthermore, this trope can be harmful to viewers who identify as LGBTQ+. It can create a sense of fear and hopelessness, suggesting that they are doomed to suffer and die simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.The Token Character Trope: How It Falls Short in Representation
The token character trope involves the inclusion of a character from a marginalized group solely for the purpose of representation. This trope falls short because it does not allow for genuine exploration of the experiences and perspectives of people from marginalized groups.Moreover, this trope can be harmful to viewers who belong to marginalized groups. It can perpetuate the idea that their experiences and perspectives are not valuable or worthy of exploration on their own merits.The Nerdy Trope: The Negative Portrayal of Intelligent Characters
The nerdy trope involves the portrayal of intelligent characters as socially awkward, unattractive, and undesirable. This trope reinforces the idea that intelligence is something to be ashamed of and that people who are intelligent are not valued in society.Moreover, this trope can be harmful to viewers who identify as intelligent or academically focused. It can create feelings of shame and inadequacy, suggesting that their strengths and talents are not valuable or desirable.The Bad Boy Trope: The Romanticization of Toxic Masculinity
The bad boy trope involves the portrayal of male characters who are rebellious, dangerous, and often engage in destructive behavior. This trope reinforces the idea that toxic masculinity is attractive and desirable.Furthermore, this trope can be harmful to viewers who identify as male. It can create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity.The Perfect Family Trope: The Unrealistic Expectations of TV Families
The perfect family trope involves the portrayal of families who are always happy, successful, and free from conflict. This trope reinforces the idea that families must be perfect to be considered successful.Moreover, this trope can be harmful to viewers who come from families that do not fit this idealized image. It can create feelings of inadequacy and shame, suggesting that their families are not good enough or worthy of respect.The Unrealistic Body Image Trope: The Dangerous Effects on Body Image and Self-Esteem
The unrealistic body image trope involves the portrayal of characters with perfect bodies that are unattainable for most people. This trope reinforces the idea that beauty is only attainable through extreme measures, such as plastic surgery or dangerous dieting.Furthermore, this trope can be harmful to viewers who struggle with body image or self-esteem issues. It can create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.In conclusion, television has the power to shape our perceptions and beliefs about the world around us. It is important that we critically examine the tropes and stereotypes that are perpetuated in our favorite TV shows. By retiring harmful tropes and promoting positive representation, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.Best of the Worst TV Tropes: A Point of View
Introduction
TV tropes are devices that writers use to convey a message or story in a more engaging way. While some tropes are overused and predictable, others can be executed beautifully. In this article, we will explore the best of the worst TV tropes and the pros and cons associated with them.Pros of Best of the Worst TV Tropes
1. Familiarity:
Many of the best TV tropes are familiar to audiences, making it easier for them to follow the story. For example, the underdog trope is one that viewers can easily relate to and root for.
2. Emotional Impact:
The best TV tropes can evoke strong emotions from viewers. For instance, the sacrifice trope often elicits a powerful emotional response from viewers, making it an effective tool for writers.
3. Easy Execution:
Some of the best TV tropes are easy to execute. This means that writers can focus on other aspects of the story, such as character development or plot twists, without worrying about confusing their audience.
Cons of Best of the Worst TV Tropes
1. Predictability:
While familiarity can be a pro, it can also be a con. Overusing TV tropes can make a story predictable and boring, leaving viewers feeling underwhelmed.
2. Lack of Originality:
Using the same TV tropes repeatedly can lead to a lack of originality. It can also make it difficult for writers to stand out from the crowd and create something truly unique.
3. Clichéd:
Some TV tropes are overused to the point of becoming clichéd. For instance, the love triangle trope is so common that it has lost its impact and become a tired cliché.
Comparison of Best of the Worst TV Tropes
| Trope | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Underdog | Familiarity, Emotional Impact | Predictability |
| Sacrifice | Emotional Impact, Easy Execution | Predictability |
| Love Triangle | Familiarity | Lack of Originality, Clichéd |
Conclusion
While the best of the worst TV tropes can be effective storytelling devices, they should be used sparingly and executed well to avoid predictability and clichés. By using these tropes creatively, writers can create engaging stories that resonate with viewers.The Best of the Worst TV Tropes: A Closing Message for Our Visitors
Dear valued readers,
We hope you enjoyed our exploration of the best of the worst TV tropes. As we come to a close, we want to take a moment to reflect on what we've learned and why these tropes continue to captivate us despite their predictability and overuse.
Firstly, we explored the trope of the damsel in distress. While this trope has been criticized for perpetuating gender stereotypes, we found that it can still be used effectively when subverted or reimagined. By giving agency to the damsel or flipping the gender roles, writers can create compelling and empowering narratives.
Next, we delved into the trope of the villain monologue. Although it may seem like a tired cliche, we discovered that it can be a useful tool for building tension and character development. It allows the audience to understand the villain's motivations and can provide a satisfying payoff when the hero finally triumphs.
Another trope we examined was the will they, won't they romantic pairing. While this can often feel forced or predictable, we found that it can work well when done with nuance and subtlety. By focusing on the characters' individual growth and development, the eventual resolution of their romantic tension can be all the more satisfying.
Moving on, we explored the trope of the chosen one. Although this trope can feel cliched, we found that it can still be effective when used sparingly and with a unique twist. By subverting the expectations of what a chosen one should be or do, writers can create surprising and engaging stories.
We also took a look at the trope of the cliffhanger ending. While this can be frustrating for audiences, it can also be an effective way to keep them hooked and excited for the next installment. By providing just enough resolution to satisfy while leaving room for further exploration, writers can create a sense of anticipation that keeps viewers coming back for more.
The trope of the magic system was another topic we explored. While it may seem like a daunting task to create a believable and consistent magic system, we found that it can be a rewarding challenge. By grounding the system in rules and limitations, writers can create a sense of tension and stakes that make the magic feel all the more real.
Next, we looked at the trope of the sidekick. While sidekicks have been criticized for being one-dimensional and subservient to the hero, we found that they can still be valuable characters in their own right. By giving them their own goals and motivations, writers can create more dynamic and interesting relationships between the hero and their companion.
Another trope we examined was the fish out of water scenario. While this can sometimes feel like a lazy way to create humor or tension, we found that it can still be effective when used with purpose. By using the unfamiliar environment to highlight the character's strengths and weaknesses, writers can create engaging and relatable stories.
Moving on, we explored the trope of the secret identity. While it may seem like a tired cliche, we found that it can still be used effectively when used to explore themes of duality and identity. By having the character struggle with balancing their public and private personas, writers can create rich and complex characters.
Finally, we delved into the trope of the flashback. While flashbacks can be overused and disrupt the flow of a story, we found that they can still be effective when used to provide context and emotional resonance. By using the flashback to reveal new information or deepen the audience's understanding of a character, writers can add depth and complexity to their stories.
Overall, we hope that our exploration of these tropes has inspired you to think more critically about the stories you consume and create. While tropes can sometimes feel like tired cliches, we've shown that they can still be effective when used with purpose and creativity.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to exploring more storytelling techniques with you in the future.
Best regards,
The Best of the Worst TV Tropes Team
People Also Ask About Best of the Worst TV Tropes
What is a TV trope?
A TV trope is a commonly used storytelling device or convention in television shows or movies. It can be a recurring theme, plot device, character type, or even a visual cue that viewers have come to expect from a particular genre or style of programming.
What are some of the best TV tropes?
There are countless TV tropes that have become iconic and beloved by viewers over the years. Some of the most popular include:
- The will they, won't they romantic storyline
- The unexpected team-up between unlikely allies
- The bait and switch twist ending
- The cliffhanger season finale
- The fish out of water character who must adapt to a new environment
What defines a best of the worst TV trope?
A best of the worst TV trope is one that is often used in television shows or movies, but is also frequently criticized or mocked for being overused, clichéd, or poorly executed. Despite its flaws, however, this trope may still be beloved by some viewers for its familiarity or entertainment value.
What are some examples of best of the worst TV tropes?
Some examples of best of the worst TV tropes include:
- The love triangle storyline that pits two potential love interests against each other
- The chosen one protagonist who has a special destiny or power
- The evil twin or doppelganger character who causes confusion and chaos
- The monster of the week formula, where each episode features a new monster or villain
- The unrealistic timing plot device, where characters always seem to arrive just in time to save the day
Why do viewers keep coming back to these best of the worst TV tropes?
Despite their flaws and predictability, best of the worst TV tropes can still be entertaining for viewers. They may provide a sense of familiarity or comfort, or offer a chance to see beloved characters or actors in new situations. Additionally, some viewers may enjoy the challenge of predicting how a particular trope will play out in a given storyline.