Dr Aasiya Jan
As an English literature student, I have always been fascinated by the power of stories— whether told through the pages of a novel or the frames of a film. Among all the emotions stories evoke, the act of crying at movies stands out as a universal yet deeply personal experience. But why do we shed tears for fictional characters and imagined scenarios? The answer lies in the intricate interplay between cinematic storytelling and human psychology.
The Emotional Power of Stories
From classic tragedies like Romeo and Juliet to modern films like The Pursuit of Happyness, stories have always had the power to move us. Films, however, take this emotional pull to another level by combining visuals, sound, and narrative. A single scene—such as the farewell in The Notebook or the sacrifice in Titanic—can leave audiences teary-eyed. As a literature student, I see this as proof of Aristotle’s concept of catharsis: the release of pent- up emotions through art.
Empathy: Walking in Someone Else’s Shoes
One reason we cry at movies is empathy. Cinematic storytelling places us in the shoes of its characters, making their joys and sorrows feel like our own. For instance, when we watch Guido in Life is Beautiful protect his son from the horrors of a concentration camp, we are not mere spectators; we live the pain and hope alongside him. As someone who studies literature, I’ve realized that this empathy is not confined to the screen or page—it shapes how we relate to people in real life.
The Role of Music and Visuals
While literature relies on words to evoke emotions, films have the advantage of music and visuals. A poignant score, like John Williams’ music in Schindler’s List, can stir emotions even without dialogue. Similarly, visual elements—such as lighting, facial expressions, or slow-motion shots—amplify emotional moments. These cinematic techniques tap into our subconscious, making our emotional responses almost involuntary.
Relatability and Personal Connection
We often cry at movies because they reflect our own experiences or fears. A film like Inside Out, which explores the complexities of growing up, resonates with anyone who has navigated childhood and change. As a literature student, I see parallels in how novels like Jane Eyre evoke tears by connecting readers to universal themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Tears as a Form of Release
Crying at movies also serves as a form of emotional release. Life often forces us to suppress our feelings, but films provide a safe space to let go. Watching Forrest Gump run across America or Mufasa’s death in The Lion King allows us to process not just the story’s emotions but also our own. This is the essence of catharsis, which literature and film both excel at delivering.
The Psychology of Storytelling
Films, like literature, are crafted to mimic the rhythms of human life. They build tension, create conflicts, and offer resolutions that mirror our own emotional journeys. This structure triggers the release of oxytocin—the “empathy hormone”—which intensifies our connection to the story. I find it fascinating how storytelling techniques in novels like Wuthering Heights or films like The Fault in Our Stars affect us on a psychological level.
Why It Matters
Crying at movies is not a sign of weakness but of being deeply attuned to human emotions. It reflects our ability to connect, empathize, and feel—a reminder of our shared humanity. I view this emotional engagement as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in all its forms.
A Final Thought
The next time you find yourself wiping away tears in a darkened theater, remember this: those tears are proof of the magic of storytelling. Whether through the pages of a novel or the frames of a film, stories have the power to touch our hearts, heal our wounds, and remind us of what it means to be human. And as someone who studies the art of storytelling, I can say with certainty that this emotional connection is the greatest gift of all.
The writer is a PhD scholar Department of English and can be reached at aasiyajan3858@gmail.com, Instagram: Dr Aasiya Gull
