Norman Vincent Peale should have lived to see it. In the midst of a potential depression, optimism is bustin’ out all over. First Pepsi. Now primetime TV.

In an article titled “The Think-Positive Gambit”, the WSJ describes the shows in development as ‘feel good’ shows designed to showcase uplifting themes and laughter. The article features a thoughtful reflection by Michael Wright, head of programming for Time-Warner:

“…in dark times, people want bright TV. Mr. Wright believes viewers this year will turn to prime time television for comfort and joy and to renew their belief in the essential goodness of their fellow man. ‘To the extent that there might be a growing sense of hope in the midst of all the gloom and doom we’re looking at every day, I think television ought to reflect that.'”

Well, I certainly look to prime time TV to renew my faith in my fellow man, doesn’t everyone?

The optimistic marketers may be on to something. In this the season of serious movies, “Yes Man” starring Jim Carrey as the ‘guy who cain’t say no’ is leading at the box office. “Yes Man” won’t be winning any Academy awards, if the reviews are any indication, but it does hit all the right Millennial themes. Just change your attitude, be open to life and great things will happen. It’s all a matter of being open to life’s essential goodness. As I watched, I couldn’t help admire the parallels to Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol” and Jimmy Stewart in “It’s a Wonderful Life”. As with “Yes Man”, these protagonists just needed an angel to transform their pessimistic outlook to one of cheery goodwill toward everyone. It’s not a terrible movie, just not that original. Nevertheless, it appears to be in perfect tune Millennial values of acceptance, making the world a better place and keeping an open mind.

Eventually the pendulum will swing back and we’ll be looking at meatier fare from Hollywood. But for now, kudo’s to Jim Carrey for being the right guy at the right time with the right movie.