Why We Watch Movies and Series: The Intersection of Art, Entertainment, and Personal Fulfillment

In an age where streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime define our viewing habits, the question arises: why do we watch movies and series? Whether driven by boredom, peer pressure, or a genuine love for the art and entertainment they offer, our viewing choices reflect a complex interplay of personal and social factors.

Streaming Platforms: The Modern Entertainment Taste Maker

Today, the convenience of streaming has transformed our movie-watching habits. Gone are the days of waiting for a movie to premiere on television. Instead, we have the luxury (and frustration) of an endless array of options, from classic films to the latest pop culture hits, all available on-demand. According to the casual viewer, unless the movie is a blockbuster that isn't available online, there is no going back to traditional TV watching. Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, coupled with devices like Chromecast, Roku, and Apple TV, provide easy access to a vast library. Additionally, directTV, iTunes, and Google Media offer further convenience, catering to varied tastes and preferences. Watching from your computer or a smart TV runs the movies with fewer ads, enhancing the overall experience.

Trailer Power and Personal Taste

More often than not, the trailer can make or break a movie for me. The allure of famous actors, a captivating soundtrack, and a intriguing storyline in the trailer can instantly sell the movie to the viewer. When the movie lives up to these initial promises, the experience is doubly rewarding. However, when it exceeds expectations, it becomes a matter of fandom. My viewing habits are largely driven by specific genres, particularly sports. TV shows, although interesting initially, often fail to maintain my interest and fall flat over time. The exception to this is classic television series like Seinfeld, which has a special place in my heart and on my television screen.

Aesthetic and Emotional Fulfillment through Art in Film

Films can transcend mere entertainment to become works of art that evoke raw human emotions and spark thought-provoking discussions. They are not just forms of escapism; they can be powerful vehicles for social change. Films can make us think, inspire us, or send meaningful messages, reflecting the rich tapestry of human experience.

The best films, like classic movies that have stood the test of time, can be rewatched and enjoyed repeatedly, each viewing revealing new nuances and layers of meaning. For example, films like Vertigo and The Apartment continue to grow in stature with each viewing, revealing fresh insights and emotions. This ongoing engagement keeps the film's allure intact and ensures a fulfilling viewing experience, similar to the joy derived from reading a book or playing the piano.

Conclusion

While television shows have their place, the majority of the shows I watch are sports or series like Stranger Things and Wallander, which stand out from the typically mediocre content. In essence, our viewing habits tell a story about our personal tastes, societal influences, and the transformative power of cinema to fulfill both entertainment needs and artistic appreciation.