Dallas

Definition

Dallas is a pivotal television series that originally aired from 1978 to 1991, centering around the wealthy Ewing family and their oil business in Texas. It became a landmark show in the soap opera genre, influencing how serialized dramas were produced and received by audiences, especially in terms of character development and complex storylines. Its blend of melodrama and intrigue set the stage for future primetime soaps, showcasing the cultural significance of wealth and power dynamics in American society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dallas is famous for its iconic opening theme song and memorable catchphrase, 'Who shot J.R.?' which became a cultural phenomenon after a pivotal episode in the series.
2. The series introduced a new level of production value for soap operas, incorporating high-profile actors and cinematic techniques that appealed to a wider audience.
3. Dallas tackled social issues such as family loyalty, betrayal, and corporate greed while maintaining its roots in traditional soap opera elements.
4. The show's success led to the emergence of other primetime soaps in the 1980s, changing the landscape of television drama and influencing future productions.
5. In 2012, a revival of Dallas aired, continuing the story of the Ewing family and reflecting on modern themes while drawing on the nostalgia of the original series.

Review Questions

• How did Dallas influence the development of other television shows in the soap opera genre?
  • Dallas set a high standard for production quality and storytelling in the soap opera genre, blending complex characters with intricate plots. Its success paved the way for other primetime soaps like Knots Landing and Falcon Crest, which adopted similar formats. By incorporating more relatable characters and real-world issues into its narrative, Dallas helped redefine audience expectations for serialized dramas, leading to a shift in how television stories were crafted.
• Discuss the role of cliffhangers in Dallas and how they contributed to viewer engagement.
  • Cliffhangers were a signature element of Dallas, particularly with plot twists such as 'Who shot J.R.?' These suspenseful moments left audiences eager to tune in for the next episode, creating intense discussions among viewers and elevating the show's popularity. The effective use of cliffhangers not only maintained high ratings but also created a cultural impact as fans speculated about character fates, showing how vital suspense is in maintaining viewer interest in serialized storytelling.
• Evaluate how Dallas reflects societal values and issues prevalent during its original airing period.
  • Dallas reflected and shaped societal values regarding wealth, power, and family dynamics during its run from 1978 to 1991. The portrayal of the Ewing family emphasized themes of corporate greed and familial loyalty, mirroring real-life economic conditions and attitudes toward wealth in America at that time. The show's dramatic conflicts often illustrated broader societal tensions around class struggles and ethical dilemmas within business practices, making it a significant cultural artifact that resonated with contemporary audiences while influencing future television narratives.

Related terms

Primetime Soap Opera: A genre of television drama characterized by serialized storytelling, melodramatic plots, and a focus on interpersonal relationships, typically airing during prime time.

Cliffhanger: A dramatic and suspenseful ending to an episode or season that leaves viewers eager to know what happens next, often used effectively in series like Dallas.

Spin-off: A television program derived from an existing series that focuses on a specific character or storyline, which can further expand the universe established by the original show.