Are Movies Made to Make People Dumb?

There is a prevailing concern that movies, especially those aimed at younger audiences, are designed to make people dumb. This claim has sparked debates across various sectors, questioning the role of cinema in shaping societal attitudes. Are movies truly a medium for mindless entertainment, or do they have the potential to foster critical thinking and intellectual stimulation?

Entertainment vs. Education

One of the fundamental divides in this conversation is the difference between entertainment and education. Many movies today are primarily focused on delivering thrilling narratives, captivating visuals, and emotional highs. While these elements are undeniably essential for maintaining audience engagement, they sometimes come at the cost of depth and substance.

However, it's important to note that entertainment doesn't inherently make people unintelligent. The critical issue lies in the quality of storytelling and the balance between entertainment and education. Even films intended for enjoyment can still promote cognitive engagement and intellectual growth if they challenge viewers with thought-provoking themes and complex characters.

Cultural Influence

Some genres, particularly those that prioritize spectacle over substance, have been criticized for promoting a culture of distraction and superficiality. Action movies, reality TV shows, and some ensemble pieces might offer immediate gratification but often leave little room for critical thinking. Excessive consumption of such content can significantly affect viewers' cognitive abilities, leading to a decline in analytical skills.

It is crucial to recognize that not all movies fall into this category. The film industry produces a diverse range of offerings, including thought-provoking, educational, and artistically valuable films. These movies can inspire, educate, and challenge audiences on various social, political, and philosophical issues. For instance, documentaries, dramas focusing on historical events, and indie films often delve deeper into meaningful themes and provide viewers with a more profound understanding of the world.

Viewer Responsibility

The ultimate impact of movies on intelligence and critical thinking also depends on viewer engagement. Actively analyzing and discussing films can lead to a deeper understanding and more engaged viewership. On the other hand, passive consumption of such content may not foster the same level of engagement. Viewers have a responsibility to seek out a variety of films and engage thoughtfully with what they watch. This involves not only watching movies but also actively discussing, evaluating, and reflecting on them.

Consider the question: Who runs out to the theaters to see a first-run movie on the opening weekend? It's more likely to be teenagers than 62-year-old nerds like me. This basic truth underlines the economic imperative of the film industry. It makes more sense to produce action movies for a younger demographic than to invest in deep, cerebral films for older audiences. The drive towards profit often dictates the type of content that is created, often at the expense of intellectual engagement.

Take, for example, the 1999 film The Mummy, directed by Stephen Sommers. The DVD commentary with the writer-director and editor offers a fascinating insight into the filmmaking process. They discuss the meticulous tracking of important MacGuffin props to avoid plot holes, even if it meant cutting scenes for pacing. The balance between audience enjoyment and narrative coherence is a delicate one. Sometimes, making a slightly confusing narrative is better than boring the audience to death. The importance of maintaining suspension of disbelief is crucial for a compelling narrative.

Another illustration is the necessity of certain scenes to develop a coherent story, even if they might seem trivial. In The Mummy, a scene between the main characters that was deemed unnecessary to cut as it introduced a white cat. Later, this cat plays a significant role in a dramatic moment, which would feel contrived if introduced out of context. This is a clear example of how filmmakers strive to maintain narrative coherence for a better overall experience.

In conclusion, while some films might contribute to a decline in critical engagement, many others can enrich our understanding of the world. It is essential for viewers to seek out a variety of films and engage thoughtfully with what they watch. By actively participating in the cinematic discourse, we can ensure that movies serve not just as mere entertainment but as catalysts for intellectual and emotional growth.