In recent years, the world of film and television has felt increasingly intense, from thrillers that edge viewers toward anxiety to dramas that delve into the darkest realms of human behavior. This trend, according to filmmaker Judd Apatow, might be pushing audiences too far. Apatow, speaking on Dana Carvey and David Spade's “Superfly” podcast, expressed concerns that modern storytelling has become a relentless pursuit of high-stakes drama, leaving little room for the lighter, more grounded moments that used to balance out entertainment.
Apatow's primary critique is aimed at the impact of streaming platforms, which measure the success of shows and films largely by “completion rates.” As a result, creators and producers feel the pressure to keep audiences glued, leading to more intense, often extreme content. “Everything is doomscrolling,” Apatow says, noting that today's content emphasizes intensity at every turn—whether through action, suspense, or “sexy thrillers” as Apatow puts it. This can lead to a saturated market where almost everything feels similar: either a thriller or a high-stakes drama featuring well-known actors.
Apatow's comments highlight a shift in creative priorities in the streaming age. Instead of blending various storytelling styles, modern film and TV tend to “wire” every moment to keep audiences on edge, whether through hyper-sensual, violent, or suspenseful scenes. Even comedian Dana Carvey joked that some shows seem to blend sex appeal with psychological thrillers, often featuring actors like Nicole Kidman in complex roles.
For Apatow, the streaming focus on completion rates risks losing the essence of slower, more human stories, where humor, subtlety, and character development flourish. As studios aim to keep audiences captivated, we might be missing out on the kinds of relatable, nuanced moments that defined earlier decades of cinema and TV. The question remains: in this era of constant engagement, will there be a shift back toward balance?
Judd Apatow raises an interesting critique about the current state of modern entertainment. As audiences, we may find ourselves enthralled by high-energy plots, but it's worth wondering if this intensity comes at the expense of richer storytelling. The lack of quieter, human moments can make films and series feel one-dimensional over time. Apatow's view resonates with viewers who might feel nostalgic for the variety that once defined TV and film, where humor and light-heartedness could coexist with darker themes. While today's model excels at grabbing attention, I agree with Apatow that more grounded stories have a lasting impact. Streaming platforms might benefit from offering viewers a bit more breathing room.
Do you think today's movies and shows could benefit from a return to more nuanced, slower-paced storytelling? Or do you enjoy the intensity of modern media?
