Iraq's dark sense of humor

Ashton Kutcher. Sex: Male. DOB: 2/7/1978. Occupation: Actor, producer, full-time Tweeter, inspiration for Iraqi show that horrifies celebrities by accusing them of terrorism?

According to the New York Times, “Put Him in (Camp) Bucca” is Iraq’s new “Punk’d”-style reality television show. The idea is to place fake explosive devices in various celebrities’ vehicles, drive them to security checkpoints, and lead them to believe they are going to be shipped off to a high-profile prison.

Predictably, my initial reaction to this story was that of shock and disgust. My jaw dropped and my eyes bulged, gasp clearly audible even in the midst of the bustling Indiana Memorial Union. But I found that after re-reading it, my stance shifted to the other end of the spectrum.

Though many Iraqi viewers argue the show’s premise hits too close to home, I would argue that that is exactly what allows the show to raise the morale of its viewers. More often than not, good comedy comes from a place of truth, even if it is controversial.

And although the situation in Iraq is far more troublesome than the issues that plague the United States, the concept of turning negativity into comedy is essentially the same. Stephen Colbert is a prime example of this; he somehow manages to transform reports about unemployment, the oil spill and the predicted apocalypse into the most uplifting half-hour of my day.

The day-to-day life of Iraqi civilians appears to be so dismal there is almost nowhere to go but up. Tackling the fear that grips the nation head-on is an effective way to recapture a sense of a humor in a bleak situation.

The crucial difference between “Put Him in Bucca” and what could be a seriously offensive TV program is the presence of celebrities.

I would imagine seeing actors and singers who create work that allow the average Joes to escape their own lives — experiencing the same strong emotions that Iraqi civilians feel — is comforting.

Actually seeing that the rich and famous share their same fear unites the people of Iraq in a way that transcends socio-economic status.

Celebrities are often seen as an aspirational brand, the embodiment of a lavish, carefree lifestyle that is envied by many. That being said, I believe it is somewhat beneficial for Iraqis to see their role models experiencing the same trials and tribulations and having it conclude in laughter.

The panic and subsequent relief and indignation of the celebrities, is likely to shed light on a particularly dark series of events.  

If nothing else, at least there is one reality TV show that’s somewhat anchored in real life (MTV and E!, I’m talking to you).

E-mail: pkansal@indiana.edu