Are series better than movies?

The evolution of the series (especially during the 2010s-2020s) has been incomprehensible in terms of the depth and relatability of characters, quality scripts and great storytelling.

Among the drivers regarding the transformation of series can been seen as causalities of:

• Rapid growth of technology (= availability for a service provider to have resources for technologies needed for broadcasting & streaming services alongside with accessibility for people to consume the entertainment all over the world)
• Societal, cultural and consumer behavior-related changes
• New business models and value chains, on-demand and all-at-once-releasing -strategies alongside with intensifying competition

Not everything was better in the past

Back in the days when series were releasing one episode at a time – once a week – (as in the mid-90s when I restlessly waited episodes of MacGyver, X-Files and yes – Dawson’s Creek – to come) it was a long-waited festive. It basically dictated some part of people’s free time activities, which sounds quite absurd compared to today. Remember the feeling of waiting the exact broadcasting time.

Not everything was better in the past.

Imperfection of a character resonates more than a perfect mastermind

Compared to movies, series have more space for characters to grow because of longer runtime and thereby more possibilities to create multidimensional characters, complex stories people truly enjoy when binging. For the same reasons, emotional connections between a character and the audience are being created. It’s not always the case though, as there are mind-blowing movies too which has made a significant contribution.

The scariest character isn’t anymore someone with supernatural appearance, it’s someone like you and me. Relatable, protagonist, “the underdog”, is someone who could be your neighbor. It’s more of a Joker-character than Freddie Kruger from the Nightmare on Elm Street.

I enjoyed the Joker-movie for various reasons. A movie by Todd Phillips (who is mostly known for his director work the blockbuster comedies i.e. Roadtrip, Old School, Hangover-series) drew the Joker character multidimensional. As a director, writer and producer of the movie he credibly dealt with mental health issues and its effects in society by portraying the heartbreaking story of a character beforehand being represented as straightforward non-human, an absolute evil with no feelings or weaknesses.

Another example ( from the series) is HBO’s blockbuster, The Wire (2002-2008). An American crime drama television series was created and written by author and former police reporter David Simon, and it was loosely based on the experiences of his and writing partner Ed Burns, a former homicide detective and public school teacher.[1] This year the epic series is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Job well-done I must say for inspiring series such as True Detective, Gomorrah, Breaking Bad, Line of Duty and Narcos – according to CBR’s article 10 TV Shows That Are Clearly Inspired By The Wire.

The Wire is a masterpiece and and until nowadays a very extraordinary phenomenon. The series consists of five season (60 episodes), which each have its’ own theme, respectively, showing different faces of Baltimore. 

• Season 1 Drug trade
• Season 2 Dockworkers of the city port
• Season 3 City hall
• Season 4 The school system 
• Season 5 The print news media

As mentioned previously, multidimensional characters and complex stories are engaging the audience. Today we see, that the characters are more vulnerable and relatable than ever before. Even criminals are represented humans with conscience, something that wasn’t much of seen decades back.

Development of the Joker character is a transition story from someone you’d call as a pure evil to human with mental illnesses. The Wire is on the other hand is bringing humanity to the center by hiring locals, amateurs for some supporting roles and portraying drawbacks and downsides individuals are facing in modern society.

Technology is practical application of science

It’s interesting to observe, that the characters of todays are developing into more humane direction whilst technology is replacing people in many occupations and that technology has becoming a dominant part of movies and series.

From 3D, IoT, drones, VR & digital re-creations to algorithmic-based video editing and beyond, the movie industry we know today couldn’t cope without advanced technologies. Technology is practical application of science and this is deeply embedded in being human – feel-good chemicals and dopamine. Movies and series encourages emotional release by providing healthy escapism to deal with issues in life.

Moreover, they are great mediums to learn about different cultures, values, lifestyles and social circles you might not be familiar with. Having a broad perspective and curiosity on various aspects in life isn’t only translated through the news or books. By watching something extraordinary it sort of raises, elevates you as a person to understand other people’s emotions with ability to imagine what another person might be dealing with, feeling or thinking – empathy.

Pioneer in VR development and an American interaction designer, Brenda Laurel, is an advocate for diversity and inclusiveness in video games.

It’s no wonder that Crown, a hit-series by Netflix, is addictive. Inspired by the true events, it’s blurring the lines between fact and fiction of lives of the British Monarchy. But there is another profound meaning and that is emotional connection.

The monarchy resonates with people for obvious reasons:

• Bringing stability, eternity and invulnerability to the chaotic world
• Retaining traditionalism and institutionalism to era which is criticized as egocentric, materialistic and superficial
• Veneration towards national identity in terms of being part of something greater and magnificent
• Offering a soap-opera-like viewpoint to scandals and solemnity in order to get away – even for a little while – from everyday life, priorities and routines. A silver lining for bringing hope.

People have a need to admire and look up one another, but also to criticize. That’s pretty much coded in human nature.

Example of the future of virtual production

Frankly, my dear, why do I give a damn

Movies and series are extremely hard to rank, because ratings vary when taste and preferences evolve. Therefore I wanted to create a 5-star listing of the artwork that has shaken my universe in terms of broadening my perspective on various subjects and topics with appreciation towards art and culture. Alongside by delighting and entertaining when life gives me lemons. Basically surprising and expanding my reality. I have laughed, cried, flinched and beyond when watching these great work of art.

A side note: the lists are some kind of portrait of my taste in long-term, purposely not in order of preference

Not much of exaggerating to say that people are more likely interested of waiting new season coming from the favorite series, than waiting for the Oscars. I can’t even say from the heart what movies are predicted for next year (In the past years I have watched the scene more actively), but can say how much anticipation there is for unique series (and movies) which delivers stories to life.

Can’t wait to see what does the future brings to the industry, but one thing is sure; can’t really compare movies to series. Thereby can’t really say which is better. Generally speaking, though, series are more addictive, but then again movies have that certain feeling which can’t get by binging. It’s more “as well as” than “either or” -situation.