That's an interesting question. I started watching Buffy when I also wasn't very TV-literate, but I think its fantastic component charmed me enough to pull me in sufficiently to acquire the vocabulary. And I have to say, its first season is a little shaky in parts - it definitely develops as it goes on. If I go back to watch Season 1 again it always feels clunky. So maybe you could give it another chance? I think it may need a few episodes to really work, and for you to feel its potential.
And as to VM, I'm actually not sure how far you need to be TV-literate. There are nuances and levels you won't appreciate unless you have a bit of a background in noir, but that's more film and book oriented. It's very teen, but very well done, and its issues and concerns feel very real - I think it might pull you in faster than Buffy. And its verbal play and wit is wonderful.
But it's nothing like Doctor Who. DrW is almost fable, its science fictional component drawn with such broad strokes that it's more fantastic than rational. VM's scripting is infinitely better, but it's a micro-level show where DrW is macro, if that makes any sense. If you want broad brush strokes and fable, try The Middleman.
My English teacher's soul is happy to think it might be assisting in matters of style and vocab :>. I hope my horrible polysyllabitude doesn't drive you to the dictionary too often.
no subject
And as to VM, I'm actually not sure how far you need to be TV-literate. There are nuances and levels you won't appreciate unless you have a bit of a background in noir, but that's more film and book oriented. It's very teen, but very well done, and its issues and concerns feel very real - I think it might pull you in faster than Buffy. And its verbal play and wit is wonderful.
But it's nothing like Doctor Who. DrW is almost fable, its science fictional component drawn with such broad strokes that it's more fantastic than rational. VM's scripting is infinitely better, but it's a micro-level show where DrW is macro, if that makes any sense. If you want broad brush strokes and fable, try The Middleman.
My English teacher's soul is happy to think it might be assisting in matters of style and vocab :>. I hope my horrible polysyllabitude doesn't drive you to the dictionary too often.