2. Definition:
● Based on unrealistic storylines highlighting the dreams of
American society such as: wealth, fame and romance
● It contains extravagant costumes, hair and makeup
● This differs from British Soap Operas because storylines are
based on average people who the British audience can relate to
such as: Jobs, Family life, wealth
3. Examples:
Dallas One Tree Hill
Desperate Housewives 90210
4. Mise-En-Scene:
● Costume – Generally over exaggerated on wealth, with bright
colours and smart looking high brands worn
● Location – Usually set in major cities (LA) also houses and
buildings are set out as mansions expressing their wealth
● Props – Normally shown as flash cars and expensive
accessories
● Makeup – Natural but classy
5. Lighting:
The lighting in American Fantasy soaps tend to be very saturated and
the lighting is mainly bright with an orange tint due to using artificial
lighting but also used to set the mood (Darkness = Death)
This contrasts with British soaps as they do not vary the
lighting and colour as much. There tends to be very little
contrast and colour.
American British
6. Sounds:
The sound in American Fantasy soaps tends to have a lot of
non-diegetic sounds (E.g. Background music, sometimes
very dramatic) It is used to fit in with the scene
Also, diegetic sound is used in these soaps to set the scene
and give subliminal messages (E.g. Dialogue, Sirens,
Gunshots, Screaming, Door knocks)
