Avoidable Mistakes in Movie Characters: Common Inexcusable Errors

As a seasoned SEOer, it's fascinating to explore the common mistakes characters in movies make that are often inexcusable. These often include ignoring basic security protocols, poor decision-making, and unrealistic actions that break suspension of disbelief. Let's delve into some of these often-avoidable errors that detract from the overall enjoyment of a film.

Security Protocols and Procedural Ignorance

Characters in movies frequently ignore crucial security protocols, which not only make for engaging storylines but can also be incredibly frustrating for viewers. For instance, a team encounters an alien structure and decides to break in without any form of protective gear or proper protocol. Similarly, an underwhelming artistic decision is to disregard safety procedures by leaving the hermetic seal open, risking contamination from infected individuals. Another example is the decision to let a shuttle craft with infected personnel to land in the main hanger and then walk through the ship, exposing the entire crew to potential harm without proper safeguards.

Another common issue is the poorly thought-out escape routes. Characters often get pursued by vehicles and run along well-lit, open roads instead of taking the woods or any cover. This is a classic example of flawed decision-making. A character should always take cover, especially when being pursued, as it gives them a strategic advantage. Running in the open road is akin to staying in the headlights of a car, making it an easy target.

Inaction and Unnecessary Chaos

Movies are rife with moments where inaction leads to unnecessary consequences. Characters frequently fail to turn on lights in darkened rooms or leave appliances running, creating a chaotic scene. This can be particularly jarring as it often doesn’t make sense for characters to leave lights or appliances on, which can add to the realism and immersion of the film.

Additionally, characters often fail to secure a scene by shutting doors promptly. A simple action like shutting the door can remove unwanted noise or attention, making a scene more manageable. Characters should walk into a room and immediately shut the door, just as a normal person would do. This small action can significantly improve the atmosphere and realism of a scene.

In the face of a potentially dangerous situation, characters should also prioritize their safety. Walking into a room with the door busted open and not immediately calling 911 or taking evasive action can be inexcusable. In times of crisis, it is imperative that characters take appropriate safety measures to ensure their well-being.

Unrealistic Actions with Weapons and Vehicles

Another common inexcusable error in movie characters involves the misuse of weapons. An untrained individual often believes they can perform complex tasks with a gun without any knowledge of how to use one. This ranges from opening locks without concern for ricochets to hitting targets from impossible distances, such as hitting someone 30 feet away with a single shot without any practice. It also extends to shooting at tires of moving vehicles or attempting to shoot a plane out of the sky. The unrealistic portrayal of these actions can seriously detract from a film's credibility and suspension of disbelief.

Riding a horse or a motorcycle is another domain where characters often show a lack of competence. Characters who claim to ride a motorcycle often exclaim, "A motorcycle? Are you mad I’ll break my neck!" or clumsily attempt to mount a horse, only to have it refuse to move. This unrealistic portrayal not only breaks the immersion but also highlights the lack of preparation and skill in these characters.

Unrealistic and Unrealistic Homecoming Scenarios

Despite the popular trope, characters in movies often engage in unrealistic behavior when returning home. For example, a character comes home after a long day at work, only to kick off their heels, magically pull a bra out of their sleeve, and immediately relax in a recliner. However, in real life, such dramatic poses are rare, and characters are more likely to remove their heels and engage in mundane tasks while dealing with the day's stress.

Realism in homecoming scenes would involve more grounded and relatable actions. A character might remove their heels, take a moment to catch their breath, and then attempt to accomplish practical tasks like unloading the dishwasher or starting a conversation with their partner. This creates a more authentic and relatable portrayal of a character's life outside of the film's narrative.

By carefully considering these common mistakes, filmmakers can produce more engaging and realistic portrayals, enhancing the overall experience for viewers and increasing the likelihood of positive reviews and high engagement levels. Realism in characters' actions and decisions can significantly impact viewer satisfaction and emotional investment in the story.