Real Life vs Movies: A Deep Dive

The contrast between real life and movies is vast and intriguing. Movies are crafted stories with specific beginning, continuing, and ending points. On the other hand, life is unpredictable and random, influenced by factors beyond our control. This article explores the differences and commonalities between these two realms, providing insights and reflections on both dimensions.

The Structure of Movies vs the Chaotic Nature of Real Life

Movies have a distinct narrative structure: they are designed to captivate the audience with a clear beginning, a well-defined middle, and a satisfying conclusion. Filmmakers meticulously plan every scene, every dialogue, and every action to create a coherent story that resonates with viewers. In contrast, life lacks this predictability and structure, making it inherently chaotic and random.

Real life is characterized by its unpredictability. No matter how much power or resources a person has, they cannot entirely control the events that unfold. Unexpected events can and will occur, often changing the course of one’s life in ways that are wholly unexpected. Past actions and decisions continue to influence present and future outcomes, sometimes in ways that were not anticipated.

The Role of Heroes in Movies and Real Life

Movies often portray heroes as the protagonists who overcome challenges and save the day. These heroes are frequently portrayed as strong, brave, and noble. However, in real life, the concept of a hero is more complex and less defined. There are no clear-cut heroes in real life—the people we consider heroes may have flaws and imperfections.

Time plays a crucial role in revealing the true nature of figures we once saw as heroes. As individuals spend more time with apparent heroes, they often uncover the darker aspects and flaws that were initially hidden. This is similar to the show The Boys, where, despite the heroic deeds, the primary characters can also display questionable behavior and moral compromises.

The Boys makes the point that while the show resembles real life, it is still a fictional construct. The show displays a world where villains are punished, and heroes triumph, but such narratives are far from reality. Nevertheless, The Boys offers a closer reflection of reality compared to many other fictional narratives.

Reality is characterized by the absence of clear heroes and villains. Where heroes are absent, ordinary people must step up, often as unsung heroes. The world does not generally reward good behavior with recognition or praise. Instead, those who are well-connected or who have access to resources often receive more attention and praisings.

Why the Quote from Shakespeare Resonates

Shakespeare's famous quote, “Hell is empty, and all the Devils are here,” encapsulates the essence of this discrepancy. In the real world, the negative aspects of human nature—vices, weaknesses, and flaws—are more prevalent and less hidden. In movies, there is often an idealization of the good and a dehumanization of the bad, which is a stark contrast to the realities of life.

For instance, in movies, the protagonists are often celebrated for their bravery, intelligence, and kindness. In real life, however, these traits do not always lead to the same recognition. The quote suggests that the world of demons, the dark aspects of humanity, is more profound and upsetting than what is portrayed in cinema. In the real world, the “devils” (negative aspects) are more visible and impactful.

In conclusion, the differences between real life and movies highlight the stark contrast between a structured, ideal world and a chaotic, realistic one. While movies offer escapism and narratives which are often cherished, real life is characterized by randomness and the complexity of human nature. Understanding these differences can provide a deeper appreciation for both the entertainment value of movies and the essential unpredictability of life.