The Evolution of Villains

When you hear the word "villain," what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Maybe it's The Joker from Batman or those monsters who always used to challenge The Mystery gang on Scooby-Doo? Whatever the case, there's a reason that the producer put that character as the villain. Producers of movies and television shows use characters that truly enhance a viewers perception and emotional response. If you've ever watched old films, the bad guys in those productions don't look the same as the ones in the films today-that's because the fears of that time are not the same as they are now.

The 1920's & 1930's: 

In movies of the 1920's, the villain was usually in the form of a gangster. When thinking about the crimes being committed during that time, it make complete sense. Take Al Capone for example- a major criminal in Chicago who was known to be a bootlegger, gambler, assassin and involved with prostitution (aka: a gangster). Capone was always dressed nicely, which is how many of the villains in movies were dressed as well. 

The 1960's & 1970's:

       

A lot happened in these three decades. Between war, civil rights, and science, it gave movie producers a lot to work with. The villain in these movies and television shows had many identities, but I found some patterns that are notable. In movies such as Star Wars, there was a character who acted as a ruler of all (Darth Vader)-this type of personality is comparable to rulers like Adolf Hitler (Communist ruler of WWII) and Ho Chi Minh (Communist leader during the Vietnam War)-both of which were relevant to this time period. Another interesting thing I noticed was that the hero was usually depicted as an American, or with American colors--like Superman. The reason behind that is pretty obvious-Americans were the heroes (especially if the show was American made). The last thing from this era that seemed to catch my eye was that women were suddenly allowed to play the role of the bad guy. Take Bonnie and Clyde for example, both the man and woman were criminals. Since more and more women were getting jobs and becoming independent individuals, it gave them a new role in the world. Movie producers caught on and decided that they were powerful enough be the bad guy too. 

The 1990's - Present:

 

The 1990's may have had a little spillover from the previous category, but there was a shift in the villain between the 90's and now. The tragedies of 9/11 and the Iraqi war have initiated this change towards a villain with the qualities of a Muslim. In fact, there is a new show called State of Affairs that actually centers its investigations over people who are dressed in the traditional-Muslim clothing and that are from countries of the Middle East. If you're like me and have watched State of Affairs, it definitely leaves a guy on edge! These last two decades have also introduced the "normal" looking villain. The villain that looks like every other person on the street. With the new advances in technology, people can easily commit crimes online and through their gadgets-giving them the ability to look like any other person walking the street. The movie and television industries have caught on and are now making their villains look "normal."  The movie The Stepfather, ( a movie about a man who fools everybody into believing that he's this wonderful guy and eventually tries murdering his new family) is an example of the "normal" villain. 

Do you have a favorite villain? Tell me about it! 

 

More than Just a Movie Seat

Think about the last time you went to the movie theater...What movie did you see? What was the snack of choice? Did you go alone or with your best friend? Last question to ask yourself, what seat did you pick to sit in? The answer to that may be able to tell you what type of personality you have!

Front & Center

When I think of the movie-goers that choose the very front row, I immediately imagine that kid in Trigonometry that just had to prove everybody else wrong. These are the over-achievers, the ones that need to be close so that they are getting the information first. In some cases they're the bravest ones in the theater, especially if they choose the front seat for a horror film!


Right-In-the-Middle


This person likes to be in the right place at the right time. Sitting right in the middle allows them to see the entire screen without turning their neck and they have the best sound quality. I compare these people to the families that always go south for the winter or the people who go to Sam's Club when they're handing out free samples.

Aisle Seat

These people like knowing where the exit is. They tend to be introverted, meaning a lot of people in one room is sometimes overwhelming. They solve the issue by being in a position to leave as quickly as possible. If you run into them at a party, they'll be closest to a door or a window. (Although, there may be other reasons for sitting in this spot--kids at home, second trips to the candy counter,etc.)


The-I'll Sit in the Last Row 

These people tend to be the deep thinkers of the theater. They're the ones that want to take every aspect of the movie and dissect it. When these people come across a term or idea they are not familiar with, they'll be the ones to look it up on Google when they get home. If you're friends with one of these people, they don't like to be bothered during the movie-since they're so focused on what's happening. So if you have to keep repeating yourself, don't take it personally.

Random 

These are the movie-goers that chose a different seat every time. They love spontaneity and are known to be very creative. You may notice some patterns with the different movies they go to watch, for example; sitting far away for a scary movie or on the sides during a gory film(in which case it's not so random). When I think of one of these viewers, I think of person who goes up to a fountain pop machine and fills their cup with one of everything.




Do you see yourself in any of these categories? Tell me about it! 

Movies to see on Valentine's Day

If you're sitting at home wondering what to do for Valentine's Day, there's nothing wrong with kicking it old school and taking your significant other to the movies. Here's a list of movies I recommend to see this Valentine's Day:

The Last Five Years

This movie based off of the musical and staring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan, is about a successful writer and a struggling actress who sing about their struggling marriage. I recommend this movie to the couples who enjoy musicals and classic romantic movies.
Click here to view the trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FKjLJZdycI 

Fifty Shades of Grey

Fifty Shades of Grey is based off of a book that is known to be a bit raunchy, but it should be a great romantic movie for almost any couple. The only exception is if your date is awkward around sexual scenes, this may be a bit out of their comfort zone. 

Click here to view the trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4nJX8snP4s

American Sniper

American Sniper is based off of a true story about a man in the military. It gives a great insight into the Iraqi war and the success of this one man. I will warn you though, it is a REAL tear-jerker! This movie would be great for most couples but it will be a bit more serious and may not give the enlightenment one may be looking for on Valentine's Day. If you haven't seen this movie yet and decide not to go to it on Valentine's Day, PUT IT ON YOUR LIST! 

Click here to view the trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=99k3u9ay1gs

The Wedding Ringer

This movie is about a man who is due to get married in two weeks and hires a company to provide him with a best man and groomsmen. Because The Wedding Ringer is one of those romantic comedies that I believe all couples would enjoy, I recommend this one to everyone. 

Click here to view the trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3TeI9jPPuA

Paddington

Paddingtion is about a bear that a British family discovers at a train station. Throughout the movie the family tries to decide if they should make him a part of their family or not. I recommend this movie to people who will be celebrating Valentine's Day with kids or their families. It's a true feel-good story line and will leave you chuckling at many points. 

Click here to view the trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFuzMlfZGWM

Got any suggestions for other movies to see on Valentine's Day? Please post it in a comment below!