Accepting Implausibility in Films: A Critical Perspective

As a critical observer of films, I often find myself questioning the logic and coherence of certain plot points, character behaviors, and technical implementations that are inherently part of the cinematic experience. However, my level of acceptance of these quirks varies widely depending on the quality of the film, my expectations, and how much the illogical aspects impact the overall story. This article delves into the acceptability of logical impossibilities in movies, specifically using examples from Spider-Man: Far From Home and drawing comparisons to other films that similarly bend or break the rules of reality.

Spider-Man: Far From Home - A Deliberate Blurry of Reality

The 2019 film Spider-Man: Far From Home offers a prime example of the acceptability of logical impossibilities. While I am generally critical of films, particularly in terms of continuity, technology, and character development, this movie presents a case where certain elements of the plot and action sequences can be justified as part of the entertainment experience. However, such acceptability is contingent upon the viewer's perspective and the casual nature of the narrative.

Technological Explanations vs. Realistic Outcomes

One notable aspect of Spider-Man: Far From Home is the use of a cinematic trope that involves drones projecting illusions and simulating gunfire. The novel idea behind using projectors to create these effects seems innovative but quickly falls apart under scrutiny. For instance, the drones used to project images and gunfire leave no evidence, such as casings or bullet holes. Even if the projection method involves lasers or energy blasts, these should still leave some form of residue or effects visible to the naked eye.

The elemental being described in the film—specifically, the water monster in Venice and the wind monster in London—presents another challenge. These elements should produce tangible effects like melted metal or blowing hair, yet the film shows them without contradiction. For instance, the crabs running in Venice appear to be merely a projection, as shown by the wet conditions of the city and the metal melted by the elemental’s attack in Prague. The ease with which these elements can be woven into the narrative without making them believable degrades the overall realism of the film.

Character-Arc Consistency and Plot Conventions

The character development and the central plot elements also merit consideration. For example, the subplot involving Mysterio and Tony Stark seems too contrived, failing to provide a realistic motivation. Additionally, the scenes showing Peter Parker’s outfit changes and the manipulation of his encounters are full of loopholes that highlight the carelessness of the storytelling. These inconsistencies, while not ruining the movie, certainly lower the bar for realism and suspension of disbelief.

Moving Beyond Spider-Man: Us and the Acceptance of Cerebral Thrills

While Spider-Man: Far From Home provides a good case study, it is useful to compare it with other films that prioritize different elements of entertainment. For instance, films directed by Jordan Peele, such as Us, often focus on cerebral and social aspects more than reality. In the case of Us, these elements are a core part of the narrative, and viewers accept the logical impossibilities presented for thematic and narrative reasons. Similarly, superhero films like Spider-Man are designed to be fun, action-driven narratives that, by nature, include elements that are slightly implausible.

Factors Influencing Acceptability

The acceptability of these logical impossibilities is highly dependent on the context. If a film is clearly labeled as a superhero movie or a cerebral horror film, audiences are more likely to accept certain incongruencies in the name of entertainment. The enjoyment of such films often lies in their ability to take viewers on a ride where logic and realism take a backseat to thrill and entertainment value.

Conclusion

In summary, the acceptability of logical impossibilities in films varies widely based on the quality of the film, the entertainment value, and the audience's expectations. While some plots may stretch the bounds of realism, the broader context and the purpose of the film often dictate how much these elements are accepted by viewers. Understanding this dynamic helps both creators and audiences appreciate the nuances of cinematic storytelling, and ultimately, it enhances our enjoyment of the movies we watch.