Common Movie Tropes That Disappoint Professional Insiders

Common Movie Tropes That Disappoint Professional Insiders

When we sit in a movie theater or watch a film on our screens at home, we often get swept away by the plot and the characters. However, for those with a professional background, certain common tropes can be quite off-putting. These inaccuracies can take us out of the experience, diverting our focus from the story. This article will delve into some of these tropes and explore why they might irk professionals from various fields, particularly those involved in the service industry and the arts.

Service Industry Inaccuracies: The Over-Simplified Bartender

Product Placement vs. Realism

One constant annoyance for bar patrons and bartenders alike is the pattern of characters simply ordering a “beer” without further specification. In reality, bartenders and servers always ask for a specific brand or type of beer if the customer does not provide it. This oversight can seem like a minor detail, but for bartenders and beer enthusiasts, it can be quite jarring. Writers should strive for accuracy in such details to engage their audience more deeply and authentically. For example, a character can request a specific style, such as a “Brown Ale” or “Stout,” or specify a preferred brand, enhancing the realism of the scene.

Realistic Bartender-Like Roles

The depiction of bartenders is another area where accuracy matters. Real-life bartenders are known for their knowledgeable and efficient service. In the real world, I should be asking, "Do you have certain brand of beer?" or "Do you have a range of Irish stouts? " This not only makes the scene more realistic but also shows a deeper understanding and respect for the industry. For those in the hospitality world, such details matter as they could make or break the believability of a scene.

The Abstract Precision of Violinists in Film

Real Technique vs. Box Office Magic

Another issue that often frustrates professional musicians, including violinists, is the depiction of violinists and musical scenes in film. Rarely do filmmakers hire professional violinists or invest in authentic training for actors to portray realistic musicianship. The scenes often showcase violinists producing beautiful, complex melodies while the actors appear to struggle to hold the instrument correctly, much less play it accurately. This mismatch between what we see in movies and the reality of the art can be quite disheartening for musicians and music lovers.

A Notable Exception: The Red Violin

Although most films fall short, some have managed to capture the essence of musical performance. The film "The Red Violin," for instance, does an exceptional job of portraying a professional violinist’s skills and the nuances of playing a rare and valuable instrument. For violinists, it offers a rare glimpse into the profession and its challenges. However, the vast majority of films fail to live up to the standards set by such examples, often resorting to generic, unrealistic scenes that do a disservice to the art form.

Musicians like myself understand the painstaking effort that goes into learning and mastering an instrument. When this dedication is forgotten in the name of shorthand storytelling, it can be frustrating. A character should be shown grasping the violin with the right technique, perhaps even attempting to learn a new piece on the spot, thus establishing their character as a musician in the audience's mind.

Improving the Authenticity of Cinematic Depictions

Collaboration with Industry Professionals

To ensure that these common tropes do not persist, filmmakers should actively seek out professional input from the relevant industries. Hiring expert consultants, casting professional musicians and bartenders, and providing actors with training can make a significant difference in the realism of the scenes. This collaborative approach not only enhances the overall quality of the film but also shows a true commitment to accuracy and respect for the professions being depicted.

Conclusion

From the mundane bar conversation with a bartender to the dramatic musical performance, the inaccuracies in common tropes can be disheartening for professionals in the relevant fields. While some films do an admirable job, the majority could benefit from a deeper understanding of the industries they depict. By incorporating real-world expertise, filmmakers can create more engaging and authentic scenes, enhancing the overall viewing experience for audiences. Through collaboration and a commitment to accuracy, we can move towards a more truthful representation of the world in our films.