Movie Minute - Domestic Violence in Movies

 The media has a lot of influence and is influenced by present attitudes and perceptions and stories. 

However, in the past, this influence arguably negatively impacted victims of domestic violence by humorizing and even glamorizing abusive behavior, explains author and survivor Alle C. Hall.

“In the past, domestic violence and has been portrayed lightly, even as a punchline. I’m thinking of the verbal abuse level by Ralph toward Alice on that massive hit for the times. Now considered a classic: ‘The Honeymooner.’ Then there was the clenched his and his catchphrase: “Pow! Right in the kisser.” Hilarious. Yet the audience laughed!”

Now, however, Hollywood and the media are showing domestic violence in a more accurate way, and in a way that centers around the survivor’s story.

“More recently, shows and movies are refocusing to center around the survivor’s story. Shows like “Maid,” “Big Little Lies,” and “Brothers'' all show more nuanced and complex stories that feature or center around domestic violence, survivors and the effects of violence. For better (for society) or worse (for my own novel), until the Me,Too movent took place, I had consistent response from agents saying, ‘There are too many stories about incest’,” Alle C. Hall explains.

Why is it important for the media and Hollywood to portray more authentic and accurate portrayals of domestic violence?

“The more these stories are told, the easier it becomes for society to recognize violence in their communities and in their own homes. Many victims of domestic violence may not even realize they are being abused, but may see it in others, which will in turn make it easier to be seen in their own home. The media has a lot of influence, and by engaging in and promoting more stories like these, more people can see, understand and get out of abusive situations,” says Hall.

Now available as an audiobook, Alle C. Hall’s award-winning novel, “As Far As You Can Go Before You Have To Come Back,” is a story about a survivor of abuse who discovers the path to healing after she escapes her abusive family.