In praise of Below Deck: TV's ideal mental vacation

The Washington Post

The Bravo reality show and its spinoff, Below Deck Mediterranean, exist "in a world free of those ceaseless reminders from the Human Resource department about how we’re supposed to speak to one another on the job; the show can seem almost recklessly combative when two employees go at it. Underlings mouthing off to superiors; tearful meltdowns in the galley, right in the middle of dinner service," says Hank Stuever. "It also deliciously deals with the consequences of underperforming or slacking off or talking back, as conflicts and mistakes work their way up to the captain, who is never pleased. People get fired all the time on the show, not for what they do but what they fail to do." Stuever adds: "Salaciously, Below Deck operates in a world that has mostly missed or has license to ignore the #MeToo movement, another way in which reality TV provides a conduit to some vicarious other place. Crew members hop into bed with one another (tiny twin beds in a warren of tight berths, way below deck, every move watched by cameras) for quick sexual relief or a desire for a serious relationship. The captains on both shows caution them not to do this at the start of each season. Those of who have watched three decades of reality TV know — and expect — they will anyhow." ALSO: Below Deck alum Caroline Bedol arrested for larceny.