The controversy of romanticizing plots based on serious issues

The controversy of romanticizing plots based on serious issues

This past year, directors have been focusing on the more heart-wrenching topics and we, the audience, have grown very opinionated. Especially when the issues brought up are being solved using the idea of love. For instance, 13 Reasons Why made its debut in March, and so far it has gained a lot of popularity from people of all ages. Not just because of the good quality drama it provides, but how the writer found a way to sneak some romance into the sensitive plot.

Like every controversy, there are two sides to this argument. Some claim that suicide should not be used as a source of entertainment. Meanwhile, others are opining the show is simply raising awareness for the cause. A common rebuttal is that, while the show is alerting people of the rapidly growing number of committed suicides, it is also romanticizing and glamorizing the problem at hand rather than actually FOCUSING on it. Hollywood is giving their audience a certain mindset where they are believing love will always be there to solve any hardships they may face, when a lot of the times that just isn’t the case.

Another film stirring up drama has yet to be released. The Netflix original is titled To The Bone and is based on a teenager who has little to no hope of ever winning their battle with anorexia. The movie has been categorized as dramatic and comedic, the latter having no relationship with the tough medical illness. Also, according to the trailer, a love interest will pop up — yet another show/movie that is romanticizing a serious situation. Let’s not mention the fact that the main actress, Lily Collins, had to lose a drastic amount of weight for the part.

Now that you’ve heard the situation, here’s your chance to tell everyone how you feel. Do you agree that it isn’t right to treat these realistic problems with the solution of love and fame, or will you be arguing on the director’s behalf, which is to be able to tell a story?