Why Some Films Bring You Closer

So it’s finally Friday night, and you’re sitting down with your partner for a well-deserved movie night, but how do you decide what to watch? You can’t go wrong with a comedy, or maybe even something scary, but what about a flick that dives below surface-level entertainment into something bigger?

All genres of film and TV have their own merits, but there’s one particular type of media that’s been starting to take us beyond simple enjoyment. They may even help us feel closer and more appreciative of those around us and inspire us to act in ways that are consistent with important relationship virtues, like gratitude and connectedness. 

Research shows that films people describe as “meaningful” can influence us in profound ways. Think about it. Have you ever noticed that you felt closer to the people around you after viewing a film, or maybe even more connected with society at large?

These kinds of films can inspire us to take a deeper look at ourselves, our connections with our loved ones, and even the way we interact with strangers.

But how can you know what meaningful media looks like? In one study, researchers asked people to tell the difference between "meaningful" and "pleasurable" forms of entertainment. This is not to say that a meaningful film can't also be enjoyable or that a pleasurable film can't also be meaningful. But when people were asked to put meaningful movies into different categories, they usually said they were "historical," "sad," or "dramas," while "pleasant" movies were usually comedies.

‘‘Meaningful movies are far from just gloomy. They often have distinctive features that make them stand out. They show the power of human virtue and connectedness.’’

They might include characters who act in highly moral or altruistic ways and choose to give up their comfort and safety to protect others. 

And, of course, they also often include themes like kindness and compassionate love, like helping a stranger in need or offering emotional support to someone going through a tough time.

For many people, those themes come together to elicit feelings of “elevation”. If you've ever watched a movie and felt sad, happy, moved, and inspired all at the same time, you know what elevation feels like. It can change the way you see things and help you connect with the people around you.