Sunday, February 22, 2015

Suspension of belief

Dear action/crime TV/Movie Character:

First, let me tell you that I appreciate your career decision, which allows me to binge-watch shows until my brain is liquified. I realize it's a sacrifice and your willingness to take one for the team has not gone unnoticed.

That being said, I'd like to give you some advice. Just small pointers that might make your job easier, nothing to worry about.

1) When you are going up against the bad guys, bring better firepower. Every time you go in there with your little pistol, knowing they are going to be bringing Uzis. Seriously. I know there is the Hollywood law that the bad guys will always miss, even with guns that shoot a million rounds a second in every direction, but it's not very believable.

2) When you are going in there, protect your head!!! I know you don't want to mess up your hair, but really? Why even bother wearing the bullet proof vest if you are going to give the bad guy that lovely updo as a target?

3) What is it with you that you always have to engage with the criminal? Let it go! Don't talk to them, don't banter with them, or whatever it is you think you are doing. Cuff 'em and go. Question them and get out of there. When you try to get the last word in, it makes it look like you care what they think, and believe me, you shouldn't.

4) I'm going to fill you in on a little secret. Whoever the random outsider is that comes into your little team? Your scripted to fall in love with them. Just don't. Don't bother. It's cliche, overdone, boring, predictable. Try something new--like interoffice relationships that don't involve any kind of romantic anything. It's done everyday.

So, there are some pointers for you, things you might want to consider to improve the overall believability of your character. Like I say, your doing a great job, but it never hurts to try new things.

Sincerely,
The Viewer

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