Entry #6. Understanding the Madness

                                         

    Do you ever ask yourself why people enjoy watching sad, violent, gory movies? You may be someone that does like watching these types of movies, and so am I. However, do you ever really try to understand why they are so appealing to some of us? It does not seem like they would be, but somehow people are drawn to them. Let us take a look at several movies and shows that are very popular, but might cause some to wonder why they are. 

    "Stranger Things" is a show that is insanely popular. Rotten Tomatoes audience score is at 96%! How can this be? There are many sad deaths and gory scenes. So why do people like this? There are some simple reasons people are drawn to this show, reasons such as, friendship within the show, excitement, and curiosity. However, there are many details that seem like they should be turning people away. People see death after death, but still seem to come back for more. I believe it is because the audience knows that somehow, the good guy will get back on top. They know there will be an ending that is all the more satisfying because of all the sacrifices made. People also like to feel something even if it is sadness or fear. Viewer like to feel connected to characters and be part of their world, even through all the ups and downs.   

                                                              

    Another example of a popular yet disturbing story is "The Hunger Games". Throughout all of the movies, you see people pitted against each other. You see hierarchies and injustices. Young boys and girls are made to fight to the death with no choice in the matter. Many people die, including characters you have grown to care about. The main character, Katniss, goes through heartbreak and pain. Why would someone want to see that? People want to see the solution. They want to know that there is happiness for these characters that they are attached to. People like to see realness, even the pain. 

                                              

    A new show came out on Netflix called "Squid Game". It is a Korean show and has gained a lot of popularity very quickly. It is a very well made show, but despite that, some people do not like it. There is so much death. Men and women of all ages are invited to play games in order to win money. Unlike The Hunger Games, they are there voluntarily. They are there because they are in debt, and they believe this is a fast way to make money. There is a twist though. They are permanently eliminated if they loose. It is a very high risk - high reward situation. All through the show you see death after death. This show is a bit harder to understand why it is engaging. Why would someone want to see people make mistakes, and die from them? It sounds psychotic. Yet somehow, people are so drawn to it. There is an odd comfort to knowing you are in control of your life. Watching shows like this really makes you take stock of your life and be grateful for what you have. Of course, the other reasons discussed before apply too. People want to see the good prevail. They want to see resolution of the chaos.  

                                                

    These are just a few examples. People may vary in thoughts and opinions, but the goal is to think. It is good to understand why we are attracted to certain things and not to others. It is good to find the root of our feelings so we better understand ourselves. Feel free to share your thoughts on the matter, and what shows you like!