Ep 9. Adam Ruins Summer Fun

Adam Ruins Everything is a hit American comedy series that aims to debunk popular misconceptions and lies about various topics through humor and research. In Season 1 Episode 9 titled "Adam Ruins Summer Fun," the show's host, Adam Conover, takes a critical look at the summertime activities that many of us take for granted.

The show begins with Adam informing viewers that the concept of summer vacation is a relatively modern invention that dates back to the late 19th century, when school-age children were given time off from school to work on their family's farms. He then explains how the idea of summer fun became aggressively marketed to the masses in the 20th century, with various industries vying for our attention and money.

One of the biggest summer staples that Adam tackles is the backyard BBQ. He discusses how gas grilling became popular in the 1950s and '60s, as people moved away from charcoal grilling due to concerns about pollution and carcinogens. Adam then notes how the BBQ industry has since exploded into a $1.47 billion annual market, with manufacturers selling grills that can cost as much as $20,000. He also debunks the myth that grilling burgers and hot dogs is healthier than frying them, citing research that shows how those foods can form harmful carcinogens when cooked at high temperatures.

Another popular summer activity that Adam ruins is going to the beach. He notes that beaches in the U.S. are often overcrowded and polluted, with water quality issues and safety hazards like rip currents. Adam explains how beach culture in America was shaped by race and class divisions, with public beaches being segregated and exclusive in the past. He also debunks the myth that sunscreen is the end-all, be-all solution to protecting ourselves from the sun's harmful rays, citing research that shows how various other factors like clothing and shade play a role too.

Moving on, Adam tackles another summer staple: amusement parks. He explains how the safety standards for amusement park rides are surprisingly lax, with many of them being self-regulated by the industry. Adam notes that there are an average of over 4,000 amusement park-related injuries per year in the U.S., with some being life-threatening or fatal. He also debunks the myth that roller coasters are designed to make us feel sick, noting how the industry aims to create thrilling experiences that are still safe.

As the episode winds down, Adam examines the tradition of the summer blockbuster movie. He points out how Hollywood has long exploited the summer season to release movies that are expensive, explosive, and formulaic, often catering to white male audiences. He also debunks the myth that summer movies are guaranteed to be box office hits, noting how many have failed spectacularly in recent years.

Overall, "Adam Ruins Summer Fun" is a thought-provoking and entertaining episode that sheds light on the darker side of some of our favorite summertime activities. The show's impeccable research and lighthearted approach make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn something new and have a laugh while doing it.