Hollywood Cliches That Go Wrong in Film

Hollywood is known for its consistent patterns and tropes that often do not hold up to reality. From the portrayal of thieves to hacking scenes, and even wildlife and historical settings, these cliche elements frequently mislead audiences. In this article, we'll explore a few common cliches in Hollywood and how they can be misleading.

The Nuances of Thieving in Films

One of the most prominent misconceptions in film is the portrayal of thieves. In many Hollywood movies, thieves are often depicted with sophisticated equipment and methods, such as using high-tech gadgets or elaborate plans to rob money. However, the reality is far different. Thieves are usually desperate and often rely on straightforward tactics rather than overly complex schemes.

A real-life security camera footage would reveal that most thieves are not equipped with advanced technology. They usually grab whatever they can quickly, often diverting their attention from smaller, more accessible targets. For instance, in a bank robbery, security systems are designed to deter such actions, and even the common crook would prioritize grabbing cash, wallets, and other visible valuables that are easier to carry away. As a result, complex plot elements often do not align with the real experiences of would-be thieves.

The Fiction of Computer Hacking

Another classic movie cliche is the portrayal of hacking. Films frequently depict a skilled hacker gaining access to a system within a matter of seconds. This depiction is highly unrealistic and misleading. A thorough and successful hacking attempt typically requires significant time and resources. The idea of breaking into a sophisticated computer system in just 10 seconds is a gross exaggeration.

Moreover, such scenes often depend on the characters having insider knowledge and access, which are rarely the case in real-world cybersecurity. In the actual world, most security protocols are designed to foil such quick and easy breaches. Real hackers spend considerable time and effort to exploit vulnerabilities, and even then, success is not guaranteed. This misconception not only detracts from the realism of the film but also spreads misinformation about cybersecurity practices.

Wildlife in the Wrong Places

Another common misrepresentation in Hollywood is the portrayal of wildlife. Many films set in the UK, for example, include animals that do not belong in the region, such as raccoons and skunks. These inaccuracies go beyond mere cultural inattention—they can also mislead audiences about the true biodiversity of a location. For instance, Disney's 101 Dalmatians, while a beloved family film, includes several inaccuracies in its depiction of the UK, including the presence of animals that are not typically found in the region.

Similarly, films showcasing English settings are often riddled with such inaccuracies, often missing the correct wildlife. This can be problematic, as it can foster a skewed perception of the natural environment. It's important to note that the UK has a diverse range of native species, and including realistic animals can add to the film's authenticity and provide a more accurate representation.

Spain: A Hollywood Misconception

The portrayal of Spain in Hollywood is another area fraught with inaccuracies. Most depictions of Spain in films and TV shows are either misleading or outright racist. Films often stereotype Spanish characters, portraying them in negative or stereotypical ways. This not only reduces the complexity and nuance of Spanish culture but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes that can be damaging to the real people associated with these depictions.

For instance, films frequently show Spanish characters in actions that are historically inaccurate or culturally inappropriate. This can include oversimplified historical events or a depiction of modern Spanish life that is highly distorted. Such inaccuracies can lead to a superficial understanding of Spanish culture and society, making it essential for filmmakers to approach these subjects with careful research and respect for the culture.

Phone Cleaners and More Obvious Faux Pas

There are some common cliche misrepresentations that are more transparently incorrect. For instance, the portrayal of characters not saying goodbye when hanging up a phone is a popular trope that is clearly unrealistic. In reality, most people say goodbye or wish someone well before ending a phone conversation. Even in the era of mobile messaging, stopping a dialogue without a proper closing is considered impolite and unprofessional. This cliche can be easily avoided by ensuring that characters say goodbye in a natural and realistic manner.

Similarly, another glaring cliche is the scene where bad guys order police officers to drop their guns or use them against each other. This is a dangerous and unrealistic portrayal of law enforcement. Real police officers are trained never to order or suggest that their peers put down their weapons. Filmmakers should avoid these cliches to ensure that their scripts are both realistic and appropriate.

Overall, these cliche tropes in Hollywood not only detract from the overall quality of a film but also misinform and misrepresent real-world situations and cultures. It is important for filmmakers to maintain a balance between storytelling and realism to provide an authentic and engaging viewing experience for the audience.