There was a time when I reveled in dramatic films and shows. If a story promised intense emotions and heart-wrenching moments, I was all in. I’d brace myself for the gut-punching sadness, eager to embrace the rawness of human experience. I found beauty in the darkness, appreciating the “real” world’s complexities, no matter how grim they might be.
However, everything shifted once I became a parent.
I vividly recall diving into the Hunger Games series while expecting my first child. The themes of violence and survival were gripping, but as my due date approached, it hit me: I wouldn’t be able to engage with such harrowing narratives for a long time. Even though these dystopian tales were fictional, my overactive imagination made them feel all too real. The thought of my child entering a world filled with turmoil was overwhelming.
Once my daughter arrived, my scarce moments of leisure transformed into a marathon of comedies. I found solace in reruns of The Office during those sleepless nights. My favorite romantic comedies became my go-to, and I never even finished Parenthood. Now, as a mother of two, my commitment to lighthearted viewing has only deepened. The thought of starting This Is Us is daunting—I know it’s heartfelt, but I can’t bear the idea of crying over fictional struggles when I have enough real-life challenges.
I understand that my choice to avoid serious dramas means I’m missing out on some outstanding storytelling. However, protecting my emotional well-being has become a priority. I keep myself informed about current events from various sources, and the sheer volume of negativity can be staggering. News of crises like those in Aleppo or the Flint water situation weighs heavily on me, especially when I think about the world my kids will inherit.
Given this reality, I can’t bring myself to engage with fictional narratives that echo the tragedies I read about. In the rare quiet moments I carve out for myself, I opt for feel-good comedies that uplift me without demanding too much emotional investment. I crave laughter, absurdity, and clever writing that reminds me that while the world has its darkness, there are also glimmers of joy.
Perhaps one day, when my children are older or I feel more resilient, I’ll revisit the world of quality drama. For now, though, I know that prioritizing lighthearted content is what I need. Being a parent is challenging enough, and I prefer to escape into the realm of laughter rather than immerse myself in fictional turmoil. Instead of grappling with heavy themes, I’ll choose simple comedies and uplifting films every time.
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In summary, as a parent navigating today’s complex world, I find comfort and joy in feel-good entertainment. While I may miss out on more serious storytelling, prioritizing lighthearted content helps me cope with the real-life challenges I face daily.