Week 6: Fantasy Thoughts

Fantasy is one of my favorite genres, besides horror of course. I think it has something to do with the fact that vastness of fantasy is nearly infinite with an endless variety of settings, characters and stories, literally anything can happen. Also the diversity makes the worlds very inclusive, characters of all races and creeds can be represented though fantasy because there are simply no bounds to the imagination. There’s no doubt as fantasy becomes more popular that it could be the gateway to creating more diversity in in other media as well.

Another reason why I think fantasy has really taken off in pop culture is that great authors like J.R.R Tolkien’s books are being adapted to film, allowing wider audiences to experience what they have to offer. Tolkien was not only one of the most well known fantasy authors, but remains one of the most popular authors around the world. Taking best selling novels like his and adapting them into films has become a popular trend in the movie industry. I think this is great for the fantasy genre in particular because some of the source material can be difficult for general audiences to access, as reading a 600 page novel in a 3 book series just doesn’t fit into some people schedules or interests. As a fan of both Tolkien's books and their movie adaptations, I can see why the movies can be a better alternative for some people. When comparing The Hobbit’s book and movie versions, there are quite a few differences, such as the scene from the book where Bilbo and company meet Beorn that are long with unnecessary details that would not translate well into a movie. Also it’s very hard to create 14 different characters and have them very distinguishable from one another over a few hundred pages all while focusing on the progression of the story, so the visual aspects of the movie are successful in that sense.

People find a form of escapism through these characters that go on dangerous journeys all while meeting new friends and fighting against evil, but in reality it mimics the lives that we have. Although it may not seem like it, people have adventures every day. They move to new towns, meet new people and fall in love. Anybody has the capacity to be great, like many fantasy authors have expressed through their stories. Which is why I think Tolkien’s work is so popular, he shows that it doesn’t matter how strong, big or important you are, all that matters is having the will to do what you believe must be done.