I like MST3K. I like McMansion Hell. I like RedLetterMedia. I like Let's Plays. I like Dungeons and Dragons podcasts. I find myself drawn to media where I experience someone else experiencing something, usually with an element of petty judgment or crassness.
Folks have a lot of ideas on why this is such a draw. Some imply that critical or reaction media are a kind of crutch or vice in contrast to real arts or entertainment. For example, I've heard people say that kids are too lazy to even play video games anymore - they watch other people do it. But listen: what entertainment isn't some kind of distraction, escape, or "lazy" activity? Instead of watching Citizen Kane, you could be teaching an inner city child to read, or drilling a well in an impoverished country. Gatekeeping-type folks can use more "meaningful" forms of arts or entertainment to feel better about themselves, too. You get something out of art or entertainment that makes you feel better about yourself. You could learn something or gain a perspective that opens up your world. But why do you watch a movie, attend a ballet, etc., at its core? To cope with life's chaotic nature and find order and meaning in it. At least, that's how I see things.
I could argue that the act of experiencing someone else experiencing something implies a higher level of engagement: accessing the media while also accessing another person's analysis. I could also talk about how such media is a comfort when someone doesn't have a lot of friends to hang out with - especially during a pandemic - and watching or listening to people experiencing something feels like I am spending time with humans, or I am not so alone. But I think there are bigger fish to fry.
There is a danger to forms of reactional or critical media - I'll admit it. It's like having a beer after a hard day versus being crippled by alcoholism.
