The Most Tired TV Tropes: A Critical Analysis of Overused Plot Devices

In the ever-evolving landscape of television and film, certain plot devices have become so overused that they have lost their charm and impact. This article delves into the most tired of these tropes, examining their prevalence, impact on storytelling, and the reasons behind their continued existence in the industry.

Commonly Cited Tired Tropes in Television and Film

Below are some of the most frequently mentioned overused plot devices in TV shows and films. These tropes, though initially effective when used thoughtfully, have become clichéd and unoriginal through overuse.

The Love Triangle

The Love Triangle, characterized by three characters where one is torn between two potential love interests, is often cited as one of the most overused tropes. Its consistent inclusion can feel predictable and formulaic. This device relies heavily on the audience's investment in the relationships and the potential conflict that arises from the choice between two individuals. However, when overused, it can feel contrived and contrived without genuine emotional depth or development.

The Damsel in Distress

Female characters who are consistently portrayed as needing rescue can reinforce outdated gender stereotypes. The trope of the Damsel in Distress, where a female character is in danger and requires a male hero to save her, is particularly problematic when it reinforces traditional gender roles and the expectation of female vulnerability. While this narrative can be powerful when used effectively to challenge these stereotypes, its overuse can lead to a rigid and stagnating portrayal of female characters.

The Chosen One

A character singled out for greatness or a special destiny can be clichéd, especially if not developed beyond the trope. The chosen one, often imbued with a predetermined fate, can feel like a predictable way to drive the plot forward. This trope can work in certain contexts, such as a fantasy series, but its frequent use can lead to a lack of originality and character development. The lack of depth in these characters can overshadow the narrative's potential.

The Comic Relief Sidekick

Secondary characters whose sole purpose is to provide humor through comic relief can become stale and uninteresting if they lack depth or growth. While these characters can be valuable additions to a story, their overuse can reduce their complexity and relevance. When a character is reduced to one-dimensional humor, the plot can suffer, leading to a flat and unengaging experience for the audience.

A Specific Example: Third Act Misunderstanding

One particularly overused trope in modern storytelling, especially in animated films, is the Third Act Misunderstanding. This trope involves an abrupt conflict between the main protagonists that often stretches out the film's timeline or contributes to the rise to the climax. While there are examples of this trope that work well, its overuse can lead to narrative inconsistencies and a sense of telegraphed development.

An Example: Toy Story 1 vs. Coco

A classic example of a well-executed use of this trope is in Toy Story 1. The misunderstanding involving Woody and Buzz creates a natural conflict that builds the plot and deepens the characters' relationships. In contrast, the use of the Third Act Misunderstanding in Coco fails to live up to its potential. A specific scene in the film, where Miguel and Hector's misunderstanding causes Hector to storm off, highlights the shortcomings of this trope. Despite the audience's understanding of the stakes, this scene serves to further estrange Miguel from his family, which is the central lesson of the film. This inconsistency makes the scene feel out of place and undermines the film's intended message.

Pixar's Overreliance on the Trope

For fans of Pixar, the film Coco has been particularly disappointing in its use of this trope. Despite the movie's overall positive reception, certain scenes, such as the aforementioned troubleshooting, exacerbate the overall dissatisfaction among fans.

Conclusion

The overuse of tired tropes can significantly impact the storytelling and audience engagement in television and film. While these devices can be effective when used thoughtfully, their frequent repetition can lead to a lack of originality and emotional resonance. Critics and viewers should be mindful of the prevalence of these tropes and demand more nuanced and original storytelling in the future.