Realism in Media

Today in the Media Histories Lecture, we were given the understandings of what role realism plays in the Media Industry. From what I have archived, realism is a lot more interesting subject than I originally thought. I always thought higher the realism, better the quality but it is not the case. Sometimes having high realism can make the product (film or game) loose attraction or interests in the audience or viewers.

For example, when creating a cartoon show for children, it is a better choice to use childish drawings in the animation that stays away from realism than making the drawings extremely real.

Here is the image of Spongebob and Patrick. The show is very popular among kids. It has very less amount of realism on it.

(If this image does not show use the URL below)

http://static.funnyjunk.com/pictures/20055_313243692524_708987524_4021396_1943704_n.jpg

Now this image can be considered as more realistic (comparatively) version of Spongebob and Patrick but this image quickly makes these character look a lot less interesting specially among kids. So, I learnt that affect of realism can be bad as well.

Also, the animated movie, Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within, was not a hit movie even though the realism in the movie is of high level. People were definitely amazed with the realistic graphics but it was not enough to be appealing among larger number of audience.

So, the main lesson that I learned from this lecture is that the effects of realism should be used very carefully and within a balance in the Media Industry in order to attract the audience.