TV on DVD in Japan

American TV can be found around the globe and recently the transition to DVD has made it even easier to find American television everywhere. In Japan, along with a considerable number of Korean dramas, American television is found in abundance.

Many people here have been avid fans of 24, Prison Break and Lost. Even more popular for younger generations there are massive quantities of DVDs of Supernatural, The OC and Sex and the City. Stereotypes are often reinforced in these dramas. It's funny to hear what people imagine about America after watching our TV. Many students have believed that all Americans live in massive homes like the OC stars. And visions of American law enforcement must appears grim after the Fox thrillers.

Sometimes you have to question the shows that arrive in Japan. At a video rental shop yesterday I saw Pepper Dennis, Rebbecca Romain's short-lived sitcom. One time I even rented a rather dreadful Canadian sci-fi show called Charlie Jade about three dimensions all colored different tones of blue, green and red. It seems that action, dramas, and romantic sitcoms can make the cut, but comedies seldom do. I've yet to see The Office, Arrested Development or Seinfield anywhere in Japan. I hope someday we'll see more international TV make its way into America rental shops.