Message in Media: Exploring Films and TV Shows that Address Social Themes

Movies or TV shows that convey social messages or address specific societal issues are often referred to as societal narratives. These narratives tackle themes such as racial inequality, police brutality, gun control, and other social justice topics. When the content explicitly seeks to influence public opinion or raise awareness about these issues, it can also be described as propaganda or media with a clear agenda. Examples include films like Black Panther, which explores themes of race and identity, or series like Supergirl, which addresses contemporary issues like gun control and feminism.

Historical Context of Message in Cinema

The concept of a “message picture” has been part of cinema nearly since its inception. As early as 1943, Samuel Goldwyn famously quipped, "Messages are for Western Union." This sentiment resonates through the years and highlights the tension between social commentary and entertainment value.

Interestingly, versions of the line “if you want to send a message, call Western Union” are more ubiquitous than one might think, suggesting a longstanding suspicion of films conveying messages. Whether a particular film is seen as a message or a simple form of entertainment largely depends on the skill of the filmmakers and the perspective of the audience. Skilled writers and directors can incorporate propaganda so seamlessly that it goes unnoticed by viewers.

The Role of Bias in Perceiving Messages

The viewer's bias is crucial in determining whether a film or TV show is perceived as a message. One person’s message-driven film could be seen by another as nothing more than an entertaining story. This was illustrated in the discussion about films that might contain messages, such as Cinderella, Top Gun, Rambo, or NCIS. These examples show how different individuals may interpret the same content in vastly different ways.

To test your ability to identify messages in media, consider examining films like Unforgiven, True Grit (both releases), Wag the Dog, and the first episode of The Handmaid’s Tale (Hulu version). These films are known to have underlying messages that may not be immediately apparent.

Propaganda in Modern Entertainment

It is not uncommon for critics to label any film or TV show that deals with serious social issues as simply propaganda. However, this perspective can be overly simplistic. The effectiveness of a message-driven work often depends on the execution. If the drama is essentially there merely to convey the message, it can be seen as didactic.

The term didactic refers to the dramatic theories of Berthold Brecht, an influential figure in early 20th-century theatre. Brecht was keen on using drama as a tool for teaching lessons and promoting social change. In this sense, a film or TV show that aims to deliver a message in a pedagogical way can be categorized under didactic cinema.

However, the most effective propaganda often manages to blend entertainment with social critique so seamlessly that it resonates on multiple levels. Viewers may not always be aware they are being influenced by a powerful narrative.

Ultimately, the value of a message in media lies in its ability to engage, educate, and provoke thought. Whether you are sensitive to progressive messages or prefer more traditional entertainment, it's important to keep an open mind and be aware of the subtle ways in which films and TV shows can shape our perceptions and opinions.

Conclusion

Movies and TV shows that address social themes and convey messages have been a part of the media landscape for decades. While some might see them through a lens of propaganda, understanding the nuanced ways in which these works are crafted and received can shed light on their true impact. As viewers, we have the responsibility to critically engage with the media we consume and recognize the messages, whether intentional or not, that are embedded within it.