Letter: Glossy graphics, sets, sensation stories turns-off viewers to broadcast news

Published: Friday, June 22 2012 12:13 a.m. MDT

This undated file photo released by CBS shows "CBS Evening News" anchor Scott Pelley. Pelley marks one year on the job Wednesday as anchor of the "CBS Evening News." And he's already got his eye on the top of the mountain. Pelley says he's confident his broadcast will get to No. 1 in the ratings.

CBS, John Filo, File

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Summary

News is now as sensational as a Hollywood tabloid.

I miss watching the local news of the past: a couple of anchors, to-the-point graphics and unembellished footage. Now every broadcast is visually annoying. Multiple anchors are randomly placed in front of windows, on platforms, in work rooms and next to giant screens. Segues are punctuated with gimmicky sound effects, cheesy tag lines and unnecessary claims to exclusivity. Graphics are overwrought, there are multi-layered movements and cameras zoom nauseatingly.

News is now as sensational as a Hollywood tabloid. Is all of this trying to appeal to the demographics that are addicted to video games and reality TV? Don't bother — they're not watching the local news. And now, neither am I.

Trish Mercer

Hyrum

Featured Comments

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KDave

Moab, UT

If you really pay attention, you may even get a snipitt of news twixt the commercials.

7:06 a.m. June 22, 2012
Top comment

one old man

Ogden, UT

Want a real newscast? The News Hour on Channel 7. PBS is the answer. And that's exactly why the Republicans are trying to kill it.