I'm a casual TW fan--not part of online DW or TW fandom. I didn't watch CoE when it came out due to not wanting to see such intense drama at a time I was going tough rough times in real life. I'm sure I will eventually, but I'm in no rush. I also don't like TW as much as DW in general, relating to various ways I relate to the characterizations. I've always felt that RTD was like Whedon in his tendency to see popular characters as dramatic fodder without really understanding (or maybe being impatient with) just how deeply some fans identify with them.
The thing is, I've followed RTD's work with interest since QAF, and he's frequently come across as uneasy with his female, presumably straight (by him) audience. Glossing over lesbian and bisexual fans is typical, as is seeing reactions as sorting neatly into gay male vs. straight female camps. He's often been blunt and reactionary in his interview comments. No surprise to me that he was wanky under criticism, based on past performance. He can come across as enjoying being controversial, until he gets too irritated with the debate. Despite being a fanboy in the past, he has at times been dismissive of fans. I tend to put these traits and habits in the category of personality; I don't think it affects my enjoyment of his media.
I also don't think that one should get a pass for ignoring the historical sensitivities around using the word "hysterical" with the "didn't really mean it/didn't know/also an oppressed group so therefore others should be understanding" excuses. Because of the historical (in GLBT relations as well as gay-straight history and in the feminist movement) issues over sexism, racism, anti-female, anti-bi and anti-transgender sentiment, in my opinion, no one can escape scrutiny over statements that offend. Intentional or not, it's necessary for all parties to check one's privilege when called out--and think about the words that come out in the heat of the moment.
Writers/show creators get defensive about their work, and I do get that things could get heated and ugly given the incidents you describe and attitudes of some people.
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Date: 2010-01-16 03:01 pm (UTC)The thing is, I've followed RTD's work with interest since QAF, and he's frequently come across as uneasy with his female, presumably straight (by him) audience. Glossing over lesbian and bisexual fans is typical, as is seeing reactions as sorting neatly into gay male vs. straight female camps. He's often been blunt and reactionary in his interview comments. No surprise to me that he was wanky under criticism, based on past performance. He can come across as enjoying being controversial, until he gets too irritated with the debate. Despite being a fanboy in the past, he has at times been dismissive of fans. I tend to put these traits and habits in the category of personality; I don't think it affects my enjoyment of his media.
I also don't think that one should get a pass for ignoring the historical sensitivities around using the word "hysterical" with the "didn't really mean it/didn't know/also an oppressed group so therefore others should be understanding" excuses. Because of the historical (in GLBT relations as well as gay-straight history and in the feminist movement) issues over sexism, racism, anti-female, anti-bi and anti-transgender sentiment, in my opinion, no one can escape scrutiny over statements that offend. Intentional or not, it's necessary for all parties to check one's privilege when called out--and think about the words that come out in the heat of the moment.
Writers/show creators get defensive about their work, and I do get that things could get heated and ugly given the incidents you describe and attitudes of some people.