When analyzing a program’s approach, looking at composite criticism can help put the show in an accurate and realistic perspective for both critics and audiences.
Within intrinsic evaluation we can see that Modern Family has evolved the sitcom genre as a whole. The family dynamic was progressive as they were blended, wealthy and extremely diverse. The show was the first of its kind to publicly display recurring trends like marriage equality when they showed Cam and his partner Michtell getting married in season 5 and Latino stereotypes. The show took on a mockumentary style, like “The Office”, and normalized unusual happenings as comedic relief, paving the way for newer sitcoms like “Two Broke Girls” that test boundaries of contemporary storylines.
Although the finale episode of the series aired recently on April 8th, the series was extremely successful throughout its 11 seasons, winning 22 Emmys. Some of the jokes, stereotypes and values portrayed in the series may not have always aligned with the audience’s morals but intrinsic appreciation is clear when recognizing the huge success that the show achieved.
Extrinsic appreciation was achieved as the creators and producers adapted to difficulties and major events in real-life society. The show stayed up to date with the social, technological and societal trends that changed over the 11 years. Even down to the small elements like upgrading the characters phones as society switched from flip phones to smartphones. For example, in season 6, episode 16, Claire relies on Facetime as she waits for her flight to get the rest of the family to look for Haley. Most of the episode is filmed as if the family is on Facetime with each other. With this episode, Modern Family adhered to social trends as they normalized texting and facetiming as adequate forms of communication with family.
Modern Family’s effect on its audience generates a contemporary resonance as extrinsic evaluation should. The consistent emphasis of irregular stereotypes and dynamics created a long-term exposure that inturn resulted in changes in social reality. It stayed timely and exposed some of America’s most overlooked faults.
Theresa Tumminello 