The journalistic discourse and the elements of message transmission in the podcast and the audiovisual docuseries of true crime. The case of El asesino de la baraja
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Montserrat Vidal-Mestre
mvidalm@uic.es
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Alfonso Freire-Sánchez
freire3@uao.es
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Maria Fitó-Carreras
mfito@uic.es
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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56754/0718-4867.2024.3681Abstract
Introduction: This paper reflects on the boundaries of journalistic discourse, the spectacle of the message, and factual entertainment in two productions within the true crime subgenre. Aims/Objectives: To analyze the elements comprising true crime podcasts and the treatment of journalistic messaging, comparing them with a docuseries that has addressed the same real-life case to establish contrasts and similarities. Methodology: By analyzing content based on variables of audiovisual narrative, sound language, and journalistic messaging, the characteristics and transmission elements of the message between the podcast El asesino de la baraja and the docuseries Baraja: la firma del asesino are juxtaposed. Results: The analysis demonstrates a narrative disparity between both formats beyond the noticeable differences due to the medium/format. Discussion: The visual aspect proposes a higher level of rawness compared to the auditory medium, reopening the debate between the reproduction of reality and the overexposure of victims and affected individuals. Conclusions: The docuseries tend toward dramatization and spectacularized reality through cinematic resources, a more scripted narrative, and fictitious scene recreations. In contrast, the podcast focuses on the objective reconstruction of events through testimonials, sound resources, and the narration of a host who reflects upon and contrasts sources.
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