Ah, nihilism. It seems to be all the rage in novels, politics, poetry, and, yes, even the cinema. A little too much these days, in my opinion.

Nihilism, the belief that life is meaningless and devoid of inherent purpose, has become a pervasive theme in Hollywood. While it can be an engaging tool for exploring life-altering questions and societal anxieties, its overuse has led to a delusion of film narratives, creating a landscape of bleakness that ultimately weakens cinema’s ability to engage audiences.

When used effectively, Nihilism can lead to expansive audience enjoyment. Comedian and actor Jerry Seinfeld utilized it for humor in his hit sitcom Seinfeld (1989 – 1998).

Films like David Fincher’s Fight Club (1999) explore the futility of human endeavors through the eyes of the weary protagonist. The viewer is left pondering the characters’ motivations and the very nature of existence in a seemingly meaningless universe. Similarly, Roy Ward Baker’s Asylum (1972) utilizes nihilism to critique societal conditioning. Dr. Martin, the protagonist, takes a tour of an asylum to figure out which patient is the former head of the institution, forcing the audience to confront their own judgment of character.

However, nihilism often manifests in Hollywood in a far less nuanced way. Films like Ex Machina (2014) and Watchmen (2009) revel in their cynicism, relying on graphic violence and a pervasive sense of hopelessness as their primary selling points. The characters become symbols of hopelessness, with little exploration of the underlying causes or solutions. This shallow nihilism creates a sense of doom, leaving audiences feeling emotionally and spiritually drained rather than entertained, much less intellectually stimulated.

The overuse of nihilism has several negative consequences for filmmaking. Firstly, it limits the cinematic scope of storytelling. By incessantly depicting a world without meaning, Hollywood excludes narratives that explore hope, redemption, or purpose. Secondly, it fosters a sense of numbness in audiences. If nothing ultimately matters, why should viewers engage with the struggles on screen? Finally, it undermines the power of catharsis, a key element of the cinematic experience. Instead of leaving viewers with a sense of redemption or resolution, audiences can feel a great deal of despair.

In short, nihilism can be a useful tool in a filmmaker’s arsenal. However, its frequent and often superficial use in Hollywood has led to a numbness of its impact and a downgrade in cinematic experience. By moving beyond the easy allure of bleakness, Hollywood can rediscover the power of storytelling to both entertain and inspire.

How do they do that? Simple. The answer is hope.

Hope can create an emotional connection between the audience and the movie’s characters. When characters work toward a hopeful outcome, it can inspire empathy in their journey. This emotional engagement can make the viewing experience more impactful and memorable for the audience.

In movies that explore the darker themes related to nihilism, hope can serve as a counterbalance. It can provide a sense of optimism amidst despair, reminding viewers that even in the bleakest situations, there is potential for redemption, growth, or change.

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, movie, anime, or novel you would like me to review. While you are at it, check out my article on the overreliance on modern music in period films. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more posts like this one.

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