It goes without saying that behind every piece of art is a greater message the author is trying to communicate. However, what happens when a group of people idolize art they have completely misinterpreted?
The “Literally Me” trend is a common trope where an individual relates to the protagonist of a piece of media, usually misunderstanding the main overall message of the story. “Literally Me” movies usually feature a male anti-hero protagonist that serves as a catalyst for social commentary. Common characters include Tyler Durden from Fight Club, Jordan Belfort from The Wolf of Wall Street, Patrick Bateman from American Psycho, and Marty Mauser from Marty Supreme. Superficially, these characters are portrayed as successful and ambitious on the silver screen; this leads fans to idolize and glorify their achievements despite the dishonorable acts it took to get there. These stories and characters mock and criticize the very traits they embody: materialism, narcissism, impulsiveness, and greed.
From the movies listed above, Patrick Bateman & American Psycho are predominant victims of this misinterpretation. The character is idolized and praised online, commonly an icon for “sigma grindset” internet culture. He is mischaracterized as a powerful, wealthy investment banker who stands as a symbol for success, dominance, and masculinity, with his brutally violent acts being justified as part of a power fantasy. In reality, the film critiques the very values that Bateman embodies. Written from a feminist lens, the movie critiques the superficial and luxury-driven culture of finance workers in the 1980s as well as toxic masculinity. Bateman’s hollow, brand-obsessed psyche emphasizes the moral emptiness and interchangeability of his field, being a catalyst for his violent outbursts that further expose the horrors of his world. The film features powerful symbolism, such as the character’s fixations on their business cards, to highlight the shallow identities of businessmen as meaningless paper squares become the ultimate status symbol in the office. Essentially, the film’s powerful anti-corporate message is lost in translation as the externally masculine and successful protagonist overshadows the deep and complex symbolism.
Why is this such a big deal? Movies- and media in general- serve as reflections of society, whether historical or contemporary. Media portrays values, ideologies, and cultures prevalent at the time it was set and written. In today’s digital age, movies are a commonplace form of entertainment that can shape one’s perception, emotion, and behavior. This is known as “media priming”, a phenomenon in which exposure to specific messages and motifs can influence viewers to similar thoughts and actions. The psychological effect that messages in media have on viewers is exactly why one must make sure they are interpreting it correctly. To revisit the example of American Psycho, one who takes the violent social commentary at face value and glorifies Bateman can experience multiple negative effects- such as desensitization to violence and aggressive behavior. However, one who understands the anti-corporate message and the horrors of a materialistic society of the film may experience positive effects- they may be more conscious with their spending, find joy in less superficial existence, or even take action about social issues.
Since media literacy is such an important skill, how does one develop it? These are some steps you can take to transition from a passive consumer to a critical thinker:
1. Never take anything at face value. This rule more so applies to fictional and artistic media rather than news. Behind every movie, book, or art piece is a message that the author is trying to connect to the audience, and they rarely tell you directly. The most popular way they may do this is through symbolism. Look out for repeating ideas, items, or moments throughout the story and ask yourself what it could represent. Think about the time period, surrounding rhetoric, and more.
2. Diversify your diet. Intentionally seek out news and content from differing sources. This could include media from differing perspectives, regions, or time periods. Consuming a myriad of viewpoints helps break through personal biases and provides a more complete understanding of complex topics and issues.
3. Fact check and discuss. It’s completely normal to misunderstand news or media. However, fact-checking and learning more is a good habit to develop. Find articles, analysis videos, or discuss with people to help you better understand something.
To wrap up, media misinterpretation can become a dangerous habit which could negatively affect one’s mindset or view of society. Developing good media literacy is a pivotal skill to employ in one’s daily life. Whether it be reading books in school, interpreting the news, or just watching a recreational movie, knowing the author’s true intention keeps one informed and aware of the world as we know it.
