TV Review Guidelines

We're looking for reviews/articles about TV shows, ads, or whole networks.

Generally, pieces shouldn't run longer than 600 words.

A piece can be about a singular televised event (like a premier episde), can discuss the impact or trends of a long-lasting program, or can discuss numerous shows, ads or networks that are linked by a common thread.

We encourage writers to be inspired — and to subsequently discuss subjects that engage them personally in interesting ways. However, we are not looking for reviews that filter this experience through the first-person.

(If a show hits you on a personal level, and you feel inspired to express how it relates to or misunderstands your own life, the resulting article might be an Opinion piece. Contact the editor if you aren't sure where your idea fits.)

TV reviews on Flak strive to alert readers to interesting complexities and compelling performances — not regurgitate stories as-seen-on TV.

Consequently, show reviews should highlight the notable failings and successes, as illustrated by examples from the plot and story. (While a good review can have almost no concrete examples, it can never be comprised exclusively of concrete plot/character points.)

A review should put shows, networks and ads in context and alert readers to ways in which the subjects differ from others in their genre.

If you can present the subject in the context of another aspect of pop culture, politics, media, etc., that's always fun. If not, the fact that much of what's on TV kinda sucks usually provides enough grist for the mill, either by allowing for humor (if the show's bad), or relieved surprise in the face of badness (if the show's good).

Finally, please pitch your ideas to Joey before submitting (you wouldn't want to force him to decide between two already-written ass-kicking "Deadwood" reviews, would you?).