Tuesday, 10 January 2012

A Reality Show Where Islam Is The Biggest Star (NYT)

After reading the article, I did not really like it, as I thought it could have been better written.

At the beginning, I had no major problems with the article. This is because the article initially seemed to be cohorently written and easily understandable. The author, in my opinion, had also managed to keep the article interesting, by reporting interesting facts about the show and adding meaningful quotes from contestants or producers.

On closer analysis however, I noticed what I thought were several gaps, contradictions and unnecessary information within the article. A consequence of this was that the article fell short of meeting my expectation in convincing me how Islam could be the biggest star on Imam Muda.

7 comments:

  1. Hey Pei En!!! I had the same initial impression of the article as well. But what kind of "gaps, contradictions and unnecessary information" are you referring to?

    Feel free to correct me if I am wrong and add on to what I've said. For me, the gap is be between expectation and reality. Not just for Islam being the main focus of the show, but rather the difference between reel and real. How a TV-made star can truly embody the many many ideals of leadership it portrays and the extent to which it can do it too.

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  2. Wow ! It sparked me when I read your response to which the article sort of failed to show that Islam is the biggest star in this reality show. However, as I re-read the article, I think the author is trying to imply that, instead of focusing on the participants, the focus is on promoting Islam (more specifically, being an Imam) among young Muslims, at least this is what the producers hope of. So, the author is somehow right in saying that Islam is no doubt the biggest star in this reality show. In addition, there is no public voting system to vote out any contestant and the judge, is the one to decide. Thus, as much as we can say that in the public eyes, the limelight is shone upon the contestants, but the fact that the Muslim judge holds the final decision makes it clear to us that the focus is really on shaping a Muslim leader. Not sure if you understand what I said haha !

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    Replies
    1. Hey Joo Fei, just thought your comments were spot on, nice analysis =)

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  3. Doryfish asks the question that came to me too: what are the contradictions, gaps, etc that you noted? I think these are valid observations and certainly worthy of further discussion. I also like the reel/real distinction. Joo Fei, a very nice interpretation of the title. Pei En, your final comment draws attention to what you assume the intention of the author was, and how he has failed. Good.

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  4. Maybe one of the gaps you were referring to is how effective an imam made through this show? The article could have commented and analyzed how traditional imam and the newly selected imam through the tv show display different qualities and character. To me, the new imam born through this show is more like a figurehead than a true leader. Of course he will attract many youths towards Islam, but spiritually (which is essential for a religion to impart to believers) would he be competent enough?

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  5. Hello everyone,

    Thank you for the insightful comments and questions! Really appreciate the feedback received.

    I have begun crafting my answer to the highest trending topic!: why I thought there were gaps, contradictions etc in the article. Once I am done with establishing my own point of view first, then will I try to give my comments on your insights!

    I'm currently only halfway through though, so thank you for being patient with me!

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  6. Looking forward to reading your analysis, Pei En.

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