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taiyou_to_tsuki October 3 2012, 18:05:29 UTC
I think that depends a lot on the story itself; if it doesn't force the characterisation out of shape and manages to stand on its own legs, instead of being a patchwork of tropes and gimmicks, then it's usually passable.

The Daemons is probably the most notable example or worst offender depending on how you look at it, with the Master appearing in the village from The Village, dressed up as an existentialist priest trying to summon the Devil in his basement. On one hand, I find most aspects of that serial a lot of fun - including evil Morris dancers, the Doctor tied to a maypole to be burnt as a witch and UNIT opening fire on a living gargoyle - except that by the time the Master whips out a virginal white dress for poor Jo to be sacrificed in he's definitely been Eaten By Trope with hook, line and sinker. So it's a fine line between campy fun and cringeworthy, I suppose.

(Should perhaps be noted that Doctor Who actually does this to itself from time to time; Horror of Glam Rock, anyone?)

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fannishliss October 3 2012, 22:29:04 UTC
I love fannish tropes. Brain of Morbius was a big favorite for that reason. It was campy and awesome. Otherwise I think you would tire of the swaying sisters and the stitched together monster. But within the whole piece they are excellent fun.

I guess that's probably one reason why I love my other Show, Supernatural, so very much. It is very aware of fannish tropes and makes a great deal of hay with them. Fantastic!!

What I don't like is stereotypical behavior. I was watching a show on DVD that was rec'd to me by a friend, where a bunch of guys egg on their friend to hit on an inebriated woman, follow her into the restroom, and then catcall her when she turns the guy down. I was outraged!! Give me fannish tropes any day. It would have been awesome if she had suddenly sprouted fangs and ripped his throat out or something. No such luck.

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