Before this lesson all I really knew about 'breaking the status quo' was wrapped up into a song from High School Musical. It seemed as if it was all about being yourself and shining through the stereotypes.
But as we've discussed the topics futher in this class, I've realized that it's not just about being yourself; it's about breaking the "norm" for a better, more effective out come that in the end makes people feel more empowered and generally more happy.
As we all know, MLK was the atomic bomb of breaking down the walls of the status quo. He pushed things to the limit and then some. He IS the most important person in the war against segregation and has impacted the lives of every single person on this earth.
But as we continued to talk, I realized that breaking the status quo didn't have to be something as monumental as equal rights; it just has to be different.
That's why I think that the show Portlandia is a perfect example of this. Portlandia, which was created by Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein is changing the way people view sketch comedy.
When you hear the term 'sketch comedy' your mind immediately wanders to the Dick Van Dyke show or SNL, but Portlandia has taken everything that those shows have, and twists it into a weird, interesting, unique new outcome. This show has little quirks that make it what it is. They take current things, and completely distort and change it into something that is bizzare and hilarious in a way that you never thought existed.
When I think something is funny on television, I usually enternalize it. But when I'm watching Portlandia, there is always a guaranteed burst of laughter from me. I LOVE this show. It has shown me a new side to creativity, but also a new side to breaking the status quo.
Seasons 1 & 2 are on Netflix. Watch them.
