The human fascination with violence is a primal and natural part of our existence, rooted in our desire for emotional catharsis and the thrill of experiencing our deepest fears and desires vicariously through stories and media. The 1996 film Thesis, directed by Alejandro Amenábar, is a thought-provoking exploration of this phenomenon, going into the complexities of our relationship with violent media and the darker aspects of human nature.
At its core, Thesis is a film about hypocrisy, tackling the notion that we are all complicit in the perpetuation of violence through our consumption of violent media. The film’s protagonist, Angela, is a university student working on a thesis about the effects of violent media on society, but as she delves deeper into her research, she begins to realize that her own fascination with violence is a reflection of her own darker impulses.
One of the key themes of the film is the idea that our enjoyment of violent media is a natural part of being human, and that we are all drawn to the thrill of experiencing death and destruction vicariously through stories and characters. Thesis makes a compelling argument that our capitalist society is to blame for our fascination with violence, as it creates a demand for this type of media and perpetuates a culture of voyeurism and sadism.
A Still From 1996 film Thesis (Photo: Thesis)
The film is also notable for its use of snuff pornography as a symbol of the darker aspects of human nature, exploring the idea that our fascination with violence is a driving force behind the proliferation of this type of media. Thesis’s depiction of snuff pornography is tasteful and respectful, but it is clear that the film is critical of the industry and its impact on society.
Ultimately, Thesis is a thought-provoking exploration of the complex and often hypocritical nature of human fascination with violence. The film challenges viewers to confront their own mortality and the darker aspects of their own nature, and to consider the role that they play in perpetuating a culture of violence and voyeurism. Through its exploration of these themes, Thesis offers a powerful commentary on the human condition, one that is both haunting and hauntingly relevant.
