The debate over whether violence in cinema inspires real-life aggression has been ongoing for years. While actor-director Kamal Haasan argues that violent scenes in films can make audiences despise violence, others believe that such depictions contribute to a more aggressive society. Dr. Thomas Rahel, a consultant psychiatrist at Mibo Health and Happiness Care in Kochi, sheds light on the scientific aspects of this issue.
According to Dr. Rahel, there is no conclusive evidence to prove that movies directly promote violence. Most viewers understand that films are creative expressions and approach them with a sense of realism. However, for certain individuals—such as drug addicts, those with mental health issues, or survivors of trauma—violent scenes can act as triggers, evoking fear and insecurity. The widespread sharing of graphic content on social media further exacerbates this issue, potentially leading to emotional outbursts in vulnerable individuals.
The rise of synthetic drug use among youth adds another layer to the problem. Unlike alcohol or cigarettes, synthetic drugs are harder to detect, allowing users to blend into everyday settings unnoticed. This can lead to unpredictable and violent behavior, as seen in a case where a young man, under the influence of synthetic drugs, attacked others at a party after consuming the substance to fuel his aggression.
Dr. Rahel also highlights that violence has always been a part of human storytelling, from ancient myths to modern cinema. While violent films often attract large audiences and generate significant revenue, they also reflect societal realities. Banning or censoring such content won’t change these realities. Instead, the focus should be on addressing the root causes of aggression, such as mental health issues and drug abuse, rather than blaming cinema alone.
