Why Hollywood Poker and Guns Are Not Realistic: An insider’s perspective

The world of movies and television is often shrouded in an aura of illusion, with elements that seem surreal or unrealistic to the average viewer. This phenomenon is particularly evident in two areas: poker and firearms. In this article, we'll explore why these elements are portrayed in a way that deviates from real life, and how this serves the dramatic purpose of movies and television.

Poker: The Unreal Melody of "Splashing the Pot"

One of the most common and amusingly incapacitating practices observed in poker scenes on screen is the "splashing the pot" technique. This involves actors tossing their chips into the pot without counting them or properly establishing the bet amount. This manoeuvre is so iconic that it has its own name, but it's far from realistic.

In real life, poker is a highly structured and methodical game. The betting process is a key part of the strategy, and players need to know exactly how much they are committing. Therefore, it is standard for chips to remain in front of the player who has bet until the round is completed. This helps in keeping track of the bets and the pot's current value.

Firearms in Movies: The Misuse of Ear Protection and Sound Effects

A similar lack of realism is evident in the portrayal of guns and their usage in films. Often, actors use firearms without any ear protection, creating a soundtrack of "fwip fwip" or “BANG BANG” that is far from the realistic "CRACK" or "BOOM." This exaggerated sound effect is a deliberate choice to heighten the dramatic impact of the scene. Additionally, the absence of proper ear protection is another aspect that strictly adheres to cinematic tradition rather than actual safety standards.

Trust me, on a real set, the producers would be the first to shuffle in to make sure their actors have their earplugs in. And if they do, it's usually for sound effects only, as the real sounds are often too quiet to capture and not loud enough to add any real action and excitement to the scene.

Logistics of Action Movies: Travel Times and Bathroom Breaks

In the world of action movies, another area where reality takes a backseat is transportation and logistics. Characters are often seen traveling vast distances in the blink of an eye, from one end of the world to the other. This rapid traversal is a staple of the genre, often depicted in a manner that defies all common sense. One could argue that it's simply a choice to make the plot move faster and to maintain the excitement rather than adhere to a believable timeline.

Also, the frequency (or lack thereof) of characters using the bathroom is another telling example of cinema’s adherence to dramatic over reality. In the real world, people need to use the restroom. However, in the span of a typical movie, the need to go to the bathroom is often sidelined to maintain the plot’s flow and to keep viewers engaged with the action and dialogue.

The Purpose Behind the Surreality

There are several reasons why Hollywood is so adept at incorporating these non-realistic elements. Directors, actors, and screenwriters all aim to create a specific dramatic effect. By breaking away from real-life norms, they can achieve a heightened sense of excitement and suspense that resonates with the audience. These exaggerated portrayals, though unrealistic, serve the purpose of storytelling and entertainment.

For instance, the “splashing the pot” technique in poker is designed to look cool and dramatic, rather than accurate. The sound of a “BANG BANG” in action movies, while potentially detrimental to the actors' hearing, serves to create a more intense and exciting environment for viewers. Similarly, rapid travel and the lack of bathroom breaks are deliberate choices to maintain the fast-paced and thrilling nature of action sequels and blockbusters.

However, it's worth noting that there are exceptions to the rule. Some filmmakers prioritize realism over dramatic effect, as seen in films like Rounders. In such instances, characters like Mike McDermott might interject, providing a more accurate and realistic portrayal. Yet, for the vast majority of action movies, the goal remains to entertain first and foremost.

In conclusion, while the lack of realism in poker and firearms scenes in movies can be jarring to those who know the actual practices, it is a deliberate choice rooted in the dramatic value it provides. Moviegoers should be aware that these portrayals are not meant to be taken too literally but rather as an enhancement of the narrative and entertainment value.