Why the Theme of Big City Residents Exploring Small Town Life is Prevalent in American Films

It's a timeless trope in American cinema with notable examples including 'The Graduate,' 'Short Cuts,' and 'A Midlife Crisis.' For these characters, the journey to the small town represents a compelling transformation and a soul-searching quest. This article explores why the theme is so prevalent in American films.

The Romantic View of Small Town Life

A romantic view of small town life has long appealed to the majority of people who live in big cities. The innocence, simplicity, and close-knit community life depicted in these stories are often glorified, presenting an escape from the complex and often stressful urban environment. Hollywood often plays on the nostalgia and idealization of small town life, offering contrast and inviting viewers to grant a wish for a simpler, more meaningful existence.

The charm and allure of small towns have long been romanticized in American films and literature. From the tranquility of pastoral settings to the warm-hearted interactions with neighbors, small towns are often portrayed as a symbol of personal growth and finding one's true self. This romanticization serves as a powerful narrative device, making these stories relatable and attractive to a wide audience.

Escape from the Stress of Big Cities

A significant portion of the narrative revolves around the protagonist's decision to leave the big city for a small town, often represented as an escape from the stress, fast-paced lifestyle, and modern perils. This motif is prevalent in films where characters struggle with career, relationships, and the relentless demands of city life. Common themes in these films include job burnout, the lack of personal time, and the loneliness and complexity of urban relationships.

Films that explore this dynamic typically focus on the character's journey of rediscovery, whether it's reconnecting with old friends, developing a new sense of purpose, or simply enjoying the leisurely pace of life. Examples such as 'When a Man Loves a Woman,' 'The Breaking Trail,' and 'Greyston' showcase how the simplicity and harmony of small town life can bring about positive change in the characters' lives.

Deepening Relationships and Self-Discovery

These films often take the opportunity to explore deep and meaningful emotional connections. Small towns provide an ideal backdrop for personal growth and the development of close friendships and relationships. In 'The Andy Griffith Show' and 'Little House on the Prairie,' the close-knit community and simple living conditions foster genuine and meaningful connections between characters.

Moreover, the shift in setting allows for a more introspective and emotional narrative. Characters are no longer preoccupied with the hustle and bustle of city life, leading to a greater focus on personal introspection and self-discovery. The tranquility of small town life offers the perfect environment for these characters to reflect on their lives, make decisions, and ultimately find their true selves.

Highlighting the Cost of Urban Living

A major theme underlying these narratives is the profound contrast between the hardships of urban life and the perceived pleasures of small town living. Films often illustrate how the pressures of city life, like professional stress, financial uncertainties, and the anonymity of the urban crowd, can be overwhelming and detrimental to one's mental and emotional well-being.

Characters who move to small towns often find relief from these pressures. They gain a sense of peace, identity, and purpose that they might not have found in the urban jungle. 'Field of Dreams' and 'Ordinary People' are prime examples of films that highlight the contrast between the heartbreaking complexities of city life and the serene simplicity of small town life, allowing viewers to see the world through a fresh and hopeful lens.

The Future of Small Town Films

As urbanization continues to alter the face of cities, films exploring the theme of big city residents moving to small towns are likely to remain a popular genre. These narratives not only provide relief from the daily pressures of city living but also offer a glimpse into a simpler, more meaningful way of life outside the big city. With the increasing awareness of the cost of urban living and the desire for more authentic and fulfilling experiences, it's clear that small town life narratives will continue to captivate audiences.

As society reflects on the importance of community, simplicity, and quality of life, films with this theme will likely continue to draw in viewers. They will serve as a reminder that amid the chaos of city life, there remains a sense of balance and beauty in the small, often overlooked communities across America.