The Psychological Impact of Movies

Movies vary by genre; each one uniquely influences the viewer's mindset. Every element affects the audience's mood in different ways.

While watching a film, our brains interpret emotional cues and complex storylines, leading to the release of dopamine. For example, watching an action-packed movie can trigger this response. Taking Fight Club as an example, the constant graphic scenes and the excitement as the film's climax nears stimulate the brain's neurological cycle. Studies have shown that up to “70 percent of the cerebral cortex can synchronize during a film,”according to myschool.ng.  These responses creat a shared experience among viewers.

“Why was everyone crying during The Notebook? It wasn't even sad.”-Zoey DeRonde

Typically, the narrative structure guides attention. Films considered ‘good’ tend to have well-paced storylines, timely emotional cues, and dialogue that resonates closely with viewers. The emotional and social cues align mental responses, using suspense and humor. These elements evoke emotional reactions that promote ‘neutral alignment,’ leading people to experience the same emotions simultaneously.

The main emotional responses to real-life situations include joy, fear, sadness, nostalgia, and empathy. These are just a few of hundreds; they are the most common in film.
Films often help people process emotions through relationships and understanding shared or different cultures, and by questioning social issues. Stories frequently aim to simulate social experiences without real-life risks. Sometimes, even identity and self-reflection are incorporated into filmmaking.

“I always end up crying whenever I watch Brokeback Mountain”-Payton Lembo

Using identity and self-reflection, and integrating them into film, can teach the audience about themselves and their internal struggles. Characters often serve as a passageway that can lead the viewer to want to (in some examples) live like that character or relate to them personally. Using Anthony from Whiplash as an example of perfectionism, Will Hunting from ‘Good Will Hunting’ demonstrates trust issues and underestimation pertaining to his job as a janitor. These are the common societal issues that people become more aware of through film and media.

Everyone can see a part of themselves in every character. The real question is, who do you see yourself in?