Cringe Invocation

So in a previous blog, I mentioned that I was trying to watch all the unwatched movies in my family collection just for fun. So far I've watched over a dozen movies that I hadn't before. And there are some things I noticed in movies that I thought would be interesting to talk about. First, watching all these movies reminded me of a trope of sorts that I hate and is very common in comedies (even rom coms). It's the second-hand embarrassment card. Where the movie or show has a character commit a faux pas-- usually a pretty heinous one-- and the show/movie focuses on it for a reeeeally long time. While I appreciate that it might make the writing seem more real and grounded and the viewers will be more likely to relate to the characters, it just makes me angry. I already get embarrassed enough as is in real life just trying to navigate social situations. I don't need a fiction moving picture to make me feel embarrassed for a situation that's not real. This is why it took me so long to get into the Office (that and the awkward camera glances by everyone but Jim). For those that don't know about the show, or for those that aren't sure what I'm talking about, there is a character named Michael Scott who's entire purpose on the show appears to be making the viewer cringe. I get that there are people like that-- even bosses like that out there, but it doesn't mean I like to spend time with them or be reminded of them. I think he did a bit of growing in the show and he was almost bearable at the end, but I still barely payed attention to his scenes whenever they came on. Perhaps what bothers me with these situations is the reactions of the other characters. Most of the time they react in a way that calls attention to the faux pas, and of course this makes the cringe worse. I acknowledge that if the point is to make the viewer uncomfortable or have some schadenfreude, then they have accomplished their goal. I am merely expressing why I personally don't like those situations. I have found in most real life situations where you do something that's kind of cringy, most people will not really call attention to it and may even change the subject. Unless the cringy situation is that you're being an asshole, then I understand calling attention to it, but most of the times it was just poor wording and a possible lack of common sense or forethought. But, just so you know, jellybeans, everyone does something dumb and embarrassing that they wish they could take back. And the fact that you cringe at your past self and actions is usually a positive sign that you've grown and improved! Keep on going and don't be too hard on yourself.

The second thing I wanted to discuss was about a specific movie called Something's gotta Give, but I have a lot to say on that, so that will be it's own blog next week. That's all for this week, my Jellybeans. Stay happy, healthy and safe.