Attack of the killer soap operas

It is amazing to me how many countries all over the world endeavor to make their own soap operas. I suppose it is a statement on human psychology, how popular these shows are, despite the lack of intelligent writing, the insensible plotlines, and the horrible acting.

Not only does Greece have their own soap operas, but they import them from everywhere. There is Prisionera, from Mexico; Juana La Virgin, from Venezuala; The Young and the Restless and Days of Our Lives from the U.S., and a host of brand new Turkish soap operas that seem to be all the rage. Some of them are dubbed horribly in Greek, others with subtitles. You can spend your entire day and night watching soap operas here, if you choose to do so.

Aside from a stint of DOOL watching in high school and early college, I don't like soap operas. I don't really understand adults who like soap operas. On occasion, I might turn to one for 5 minutes to laugh at the melodrama and freaky plotline, but for the most part, they annoy me.

The most spectacular thing is that all soap operas, from all countries, are basically the same. The soft lighting, the dramatic faces, the patriarchal families, the young kids who are up to no good. Murder, mischief, adultery, dual personalities - its all there.

Is it satisfying to know that human beings from all over the world are so similar, or is it distressing? Perhaps a little of both. Still, I suppose I shouldn't begrudge anyone their favorite form of entertainment. Even if it is disguised as a soap opera.