2022 TalkPretty 

Inspired by David Sedaris's satirical observations in the short story "I Talk Pretty One Day," the "TalkPretty" series critically examines the concept of 'Broken Language' and the conflicts arising from cultural differences and miscommunication, drawing on Jürgen Habermas's theories of communicative action and the public sphere.

Habermas argues that language is a medium for mutual understanding and that societal interactions should ideally be rooted in communicative rationality, where individuals aim for consensus. However, "TalkPretty" exposes the stark disjunction between this ideal and the harsh reality of divergent cultural norms and different value systems. It scrutinizes how these cultural differences can perpetuate confusion, alienation, and discord, undermining the very fabric of human interaction.

This confrontational series examines our inherent complications and failures. It critically reflects our flawed interactions' humor, absurdity, and often painful realities. It highlights the messiness of human connections and questions the resilience of the human spirit in the face of persistent cultural misunderstandings. It encourages viewers to engage more thoughtfully and empathetically with those from diverse backgrounds, fostering a deeper, if not always perfect, mutual understanding.