What Makes No Sense in Movies: An Analysis

Movies are often seen as immersive and engaging escapades, but they can also contain elements that can seem illogical, unreal, or impossible. Despite our desire for coherence and realism, many films include plot holes, character decisions, and other inconsistencies that can confuse or frustrate viewers. This article delves into the common issues that can make no sense in films and how they might impact the overall viewing experience.

Plot Holes: Inconsistencies in the Storyline

Plot holes are among the most common issues found in movies. These inconsistencies in the storyline or events that contradict established facts can confuse viewers and disrupt the narrative flow. For example, a character might suddenly gain knowledge or abilities without explanation. Such abrupt changes can break the audience's suspension of disbelief, making the movie less enjoyable and potentially leading to a lack of immersion. Viewers may find themselves questioning the logic and coherence of the story, which can detract from their engagement.

Character Decisions: Out of Character Choices

Characters who make choices that seem out of character or illogical based on their established traits or motivations can also be a source of confusion. For instance, a normally cautious character might take reckless risks without justification. These inconsistent actions can make it difficult for viewers to empathize with or connect to the characters, as their behavior doesn't align with what we've seen earlier in the film. This can lead to a disconnect and make the viewing experience less compelling.

Physics Defiance: Stunts and Unrealistic Scenarios

Many action movies feature stunts or scenarios that defy the laws of physics, such as surviving massive explosions or unrealistic chase sequences. While these elements can be thrilling and exciting, they often break the suspension of disbelief and can make the movie less realistic. Viewers who care about the accuracy of physical effects and stunts might find these elements jarring, leading to a less immersive experience.

Convenient Coincidences: Forced Plot Advancements

Plot advancements often rely on coincidental events that feel forced. For instance, characters might conveniently find crucial information just when they need it. Such convenient occurrences can make the plot feel contrived and predictable, which can be frustrating for viewers. These events are often designed to move the story forward quickly, but they can also feel like cheap tricks that undermine the narrative's authenticity and depth.

Unrealistic Dialogue: Communication Fails

Characters sometimes speak in ways that don't reflect how people actually communicate, leading to unnatural exchanges or exposition-heavy dialogue. This can make the conversations feel stilted and unconvincing, potentially breaking the immersion for the audience. When characters deliver dialogue that seems forced or overly explanatory, it can disrupt the flow of the story and make it less engaging. This issue is particularly pronounced in genres such as comedy and drama, where realistic dialogue is crucial for building character relationships and advancing the plot.

Time Manipulation: Confusing Storytelling

Some films use time travel or non-linear storytelling in ways that are confusing or inconsistent, making it difficult for viewers to follow the timeline. Non-linear storytelling can be a tool to enhance dramatic tension and explore different narrative perspectives, but it can also be overwhelming and perplexing. Viewers who expect a straightforward, chronological progression of events might find such films frustrating, as they struggle to keep track of the timeline and understand the cause-and-effect relationships.

Stereotypes and Tropes: Repetitive Clichés

Overused clichés can make characters and situations feel unrealistic, leading to a sense of familiarity and predictability. Stereotypes and tropes, such as the "chosen one," the "serious side-kick," or the "magical artifact," can become tiresome and lose their impact over time. While these elements can be useful in providing familiar templates for storytelling, their overuse can make the film feel unoriginal and less engaging.

World-Building Inconsistencies: Unfathomable Universes

In fantasy or sci-fi genres, the rules of the universe may not be clearly defined, leading to confusion about what is possible within that world. When the rules of a fictional universe are poorly established or inconsistently applied, it can make it difficult for viewers to buy into the story. This can be particularly problematic in epic films with complex worlds, where the audience is expected to accept a range of extraordinary elements.

Character Survival: Unrealistic Situations

Characters often survive situations that would realistically be fatal, leading to disbelief among viewers. This can particularly be an issue in action or survival films, where the audience expects the characters to face life-threatening scenarios. When these characters survive improbable circumstances, it can make the film feel less authentic and reduce the impact of dramatic moments.

Ending Resolution: Unsatisfying Conclusions

Sometimes films end in a way that feels rushed or doesn't adequately resolve the story, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. A rushed conclusion can sabotage the emotional payoff of the film and make it feel anticlimactic. Viewers who invested time and emotional energy into the story may feel disappointed if they are left with unresolved questions or unanswered suspicions, detracting from their overall satisfaction with the film.

While these elements can detract from the overall experience, they are often accepted by audiences in the name of entertainment or artistic expression. Understanding and recognizing these common issues can help viewers appreciate the compromises made in filmmaking and perhaps even develop a deeper connection with the movies they love.