Why Are We Drawn to Crime Films?

by Pamela Foster

Fictional villains are far easier for the human brain to comprehend than real-life monsters. An imaginary character may be capable of unspeakable crimes, but you hope real people have some boundaries. 

Unfortunately, most people know that this is not the case. After all, many people have been locked away because of their unbelievable actions. 

Luckily, websites like lookupinmate.org can help you track the progress of the justice system. If the thought of true crimes keeps you up at night, finding that countless criminals are securely locked away will provide some peace of mind.

Childhood Stories

From “Hansel and Gretel” to “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves,” we have heard the stories of good versus evil since we were children. The battle between right and wrong has captivated audiences for ages.

Crime films have the same premise as these childhood tales, but they heighten every emotion. Is it any surprise that, as we mature, we search for more thrilling stories?

Emotions

Humans are emotional beings. Consider yourself for a moment. You like to smile and laugh, but sometimes you need to feel other emotions. Everyone feels angry, sad, and scared at some point. 

Herein lies the beauty of crime films. While you watch horrendous acts unfold, you can channel all of that negativity and blame someone who deserves only contempt. 

After the film, you may feel some lingering emotions, but you have released the most intense ones. You can go on with your day more relaxed, as the negative emotions have been channeled elsewhere. 

Additionally, crime films are often stories of love and passion. You may find a story to which you can relate or a family mending their bonds. Suddenly, you are rooting for these people who are so much like yourself. 

Although suspense may draw us into a story, our empathy keeps us wanting more. Crime films do an excellent job of playing on all of your emotions.

Adrenaline

Adrenaline also plays a significant role in your devotion to crime films. Watching horrible actions triggers this hormone to course through your body. It puts you on the edge of your seat, your heart racing.

Adrenaline has an addictive effect, making it very difficult for you to look away. You need to watch until the end and maybe watch another crime film afterward. 

People crave that sensation, but most actions that cause such a rush are dangerous. Instead, you observe others and taste the high from the safety of your couch.

Vulnerability

The world is a chaotic place. Do you wonder if you could fall victim to a terrible crime? Or watch the news and question if the same could happen to you?

The striking difference between news accounts and crime films is the ending. Many news stories are never solved. Some have closure years later, and you may never know. However, crime films typically feature consequences for the villain. 

You find some comfort in knowing that good wins. These films allow you to hope the world is not as dangerous as it seems. 

On the opposite end of the spectrum, you may be drawn to the chaos. What could push you to the point of committing such a horrible crime? It is hard to predict how you may react when strong emotions are in play. Some people see a part of themselves in the villain, and they need to know what happens to them in the end. 

Theories Throughout History

Thousands of years ago, Plato believed that even good people occasionally fantasize about committing terrible acts. Perhaps watching crime films lets people live out these fantasies in a socially acceptable manner.

Freud believed that watching punishment befall lawbreakers reminds others of the need to follow societal norms. In this way, crime films promote a healthy society by reminding viewers of the consequences of breaking the law.

French sociologist Emile Durkheim theorized that criminals bring society together. A mutual condemnation of heinous acts unites the people watching. Additionally, some find psychological relief when they see their primal instincts come to life. 

Conclusion

While the widespread appeal of crime films may seem unexplainable, there are many logical explanations for the draw of such movies. 

Everyone battles with intense emotions, and it is healthy to release them in a non-violent manner. Many also find comfort in seeing that good wins, and that the world may not be as dangerous as it seems. 

Philosophers have tried to explain the crucial role that criminals play for ages. Though they can only guess the root cause, they have found many potential reasons.

If you find yourself binge-watching crime films, you are not alone. Moreover, you are not a bad person. Emotions, adrenaline, and vulnerability are all inherent traits, and watching crime films is a healthy outlet for each one.