Jatin Rathod · 25th February 2024 · ⧗ 8 min read ****
We've all felt that surge of adrenaline, the heart pounding a frantic rhythm against our ribs as we race alongside the hero on screen. Action, adventure, and thriller films and shows tap into our primal desire for excitement and exploration. But beyond the explosions and daring escapes, these genres offer a surprising amount of value. They can teach us valuable lessons, challenge our perceptions, and even provide a safe space to confront our fears. Let's delve deeper into this exhilarating world and explore why these shows and movies hold such significance.
Triumph of the Underdog: Action films often celebrate the underdog, the ordinary person thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Think about John Wick, a retired hitman taking revenge, or Rey, a scavenger who rises to become a Jedi in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." These narratives inspire us to believe in ourselves and fight for what's right, even when the odds are stacked against us.
Problem-Solving Under Pressure: Action and thriller movies often place the protagonist in high-stakes situations requiring quick thinking and resourcefulness. Imagine Indiana Jones deciphering ancient puzzles or Ethan Hunt from "Mission: Impossible" devising elaborate escape plans. Witnessing these characters overcome challenges can inspire us to be more creative and resourceful in our own lives.
Confronting Fears: Thriller films, while designed to keep us on the edge of our seats, can be a safe space to explore our anxieties. Whether it's the chilling suspense of "Parasite" or the monster-filled world of "Stranger Things," these shows allow us to face our fears in a controlled environment. This can be cathartic and even empowering.
Desensitization to Violence: Overexposure to graphic violence in action films can lead to desensitization. The constant barrage of explosions and shootouts might make real-world violence seem less shocking, blurring the lines between entertainment and reality. It's important to be mindful of the amount of violence we consume.
Unrealistic Expectations: The fast-paced world of action films can create unrealistic expectations about how problems are solved or conflicts are resolved in real life. Quick fixes and one-person solutions rarely exist in the real world.
Reinforcing Gender Stereotypes: Action films can sometimes perpetuate stereotypes about masculinity and femininity. The strong, silent hero and the damsel in distress are tired tropes that don't reflect the complexities of real people.