The Robertson clan does just that: shooting at beavers and dismantling dams that restrict water flow, catching a boatload of catfish to fry for dinner, and hunting for bullfrogs at night in gator-infested waters.
A major criticism of reality TV is the footage is edited to create better drama, often by making participants seem clumsier, more vapid or simply mean-spirited. In lesser hands, “Duck Dynasty” could easily be a carnival of deep-fried Louisiana caricatures. But much to the producers’ credit, the characters seem in on the joke, and they remain their camo-wearing, Bible-toting selves anyway. …
At the end of each episode, the entire family gathers for dinner, a meal prepared with much care by Phil’s wife, Kay. Phil says grace as Willie narrates a lesson distilled from the events of the episode. However formulaic, it’s both a tender family moment and a savvy way for the Robertsons to convey their values.
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