smh.com.au
King of the Hill" Returns with a Bittersweet Reboot
King of the Hill", a 15th season reboot streaming on Disney+, follows Hank and Peggy Hill's return to Arlen, Texas, after eight years in Saudi Arabia, dealing with contemporary issues and the loss of several original cast members during production.
- How does the show's handling of contemporary social issues, such as cultural appropriation and the gig economy, contribute to its overall message?
- The show's humor remains grounded in the everyday lives of its characters, navigating contemporary issues like gender-neutral bathrooms and the gig economy. The reboot cleverly uses the Hills' time abroad as a way to incorporate fifteen years' worth of societal changes without making it the central focus. The passing of several cast members, including Johnny Hardwick and Jonathan Joss, gives the revival a bittersweet quality.
- What is the significance of "King of the Hill"'s return after a long hiatus, particularly in the context of the current television landscape dominated by reboots?
- King of the Hill", a beloved animated sitcom, returns with a 15th season on Disney+. The reboot features the original creators and most of the cast, picking up with the Hills after eight years in Saudi Arabia. However, the passing of several cast members adds a somber note.
- What are the long-term implications of the reboot's success or failure, particularly given the passing of several key cast members, for the future of animated sitcoms and their ability to engage with current events?
- The reboot's success lies in its ability to blend familiar humor with relevant social commentary. The show's enduring appeal stems from its portrayal of ordinary people facing ordinary challenges, and it manages to maintain a consistent moral compass throughout. While some topical storylines might initially seem forced, they eventually feel organically integrated. The decision to replace Kahn's voice actor with an Asian actor demonstrates a commitment to representation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The review frames the reboot positively, emphasizing the return of the original creators and voice actors, and highlighting the show's enduring appeal and "compassionate conservatism." The initial mention of reboots as "varying quality" is quickly dismissed in favor of the positive portrayal of King of the Hill's revival. The negative aspects are presented as minor or easily overcome.
Language Bias
The language used is generally positive and enthusiastic towards the show. However, terms like "blatant cash grabs" and "sad sack" carry negative connotations. The descriptions of Bobby Hill could be considered slightly loaded, even if ultimately positive. Neutral alternatives could include replacing "sad sack" with "unsuccessful" and refining the description of Bobby to emphasize his unique personality rather than potentially stereotypical traits.
Bias by Omission
The review focuses heavily on the reboot and its connection to the original series, potentially overlooking critical reviews or audience reception outside the author's perspective. The deaths of several actors are mentioned, impacting the show's production, but the impact on the show's quality or reception isn't deeply analyzed. There is no mention of the show's ratings or critical response upon its initial release on Disney+.
False Dichotomy
The review sets up a false dichotomy between "substantive additions" and "blatant cash grabs" in reboots, implying that all reboots fall into one of these categories. This oversimplifies the diverse motivations and outcomes of reboots.
Gender Bias
The review describes Bobby Hill as "brash, effeminate and wonderfully bizarre," which, while descriptive, might perpetuate stereotypes. Although the review ultimately celebrates Bobby's individuality, this initial description could reinforce gendered expectations. The gender of other characters is not discussed in a way that could reveal bias.
Sustainable Development Goals
The show addresses issues of cultural diversity and inclusion, featuring characters from various backgrounds and exploring themes of acceptance and understanding, which contributes to reducing inequality and promoting inclusivity. The casting of an Asian actor to voice Kahn reflects a commitment to better representation.