17 Common Myths We Still Believe Because of Movies
Think you know the difference between movie magic and reality? Discover 17 common myths we’ve been led to believe because of movies, from quicksand dangers to hacking visuals. It’s time to separate fact from fiction!
This post may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission, at no cost to you. As always, I only recommend links I personally use and love!
Movies have a way of shaping our perceptions, often presenting fictional scenarios as factual truths. From action-packed sequences to historical settings, films have perpetuated numerous myths that many of us still believe. Let’s debunk 17 of the most common misconceptions we’ve learned from the silver screen.
Quicksand is Everywhere
Movies often depict quicksand as a common and deadly hazard, but in reality, it’s not as prevalent or as dangerous as it’s made out to be.
You Can Outrun an Explosion
Action movies love this trope, but in reality, the shockwave from an explosion travels much faster than any human can run.
Silencers Make Guns Whisper-Quiet
In films, a silencer turns a gunshot into a soft “pew” sound. In reality, while suppressors reduce noise, they don’t make firearms anywhere near silent.
Cars Explode Upon Impact
Car chases in movies often end with a dramatic explosion. In real life, cars rarely explode upon impact.
Defibrillators Can Restart a Stopped Heart
Medical dramas use defibrillators to “bring back” flat-lining patients. In reality, they’re used to correct irregular heart rhythms.
Enhance! Zooming into Grainy Photos
Crime shows often “enhance” a blurry image to get a clear picture. In reality, you can’t add detail to a low-res image.
Chloroform Knocks People Out Instantly
In movies, a cloth with chloroform can knock someone out in seconds. In reality, it would take much longer and is far more dangerous.
Hacking is Fast and Flashy
On-screen hackers break into systems with rapid typing and flashy graphics. Real hacking is more methodical and less visually exciting.
A Single Bullet Can Send Someone Flying
Action movies often show people being thrown back by a bullet. In reality, bullets don’t have that kind of force.
People Wake Up from Comas Fully Alert
In films, coma patients often wake up with full awareness. In reality, recovery is a slow process and can come with complications.
Dinosaur Myths
Movies like “Jurassic Park” have popularized many misconceptions about dinosaurs, from their sounds to their appearances.
Sharks are Always Hungry Man-Eaters
Thanks to movies like “Jaws,” sharks have a reputation as relentless human hunters, when in fact, shark attacks are rare.
One Can Easily Break a Neck with a Twist
Movies make it seem easy to kill with a quick neck twist. In reality, it’s much harder and grimmer than portrayed.
All Bombs Have Handy Countdown Timers
In action films, bombs often have clear digital timers. Real bombs are rarely so considerate or predictable.
Lava is Easy to Outrun
Movies depict characters outpacing flowing lava. In reality, lava flows can be incredibly fast and are always deadly hot.
Medieval People Were Dirty and Wore Brown
Historical movies often show medieval folks as grimy, wearing drab colors. In reality, they valued cleanliness and colorful clothing.
You Can Hold Your Breath for a Long Time Underwater
Action heroes often stay submerged for minutes without air. In reality, holding one’s breath for extended periods is challenging and dangerous.
19 Facts About the Human Body That Sound Fake But Aren’t
19 Facts About the Human Body That Sound Fake But Aren’t
13 Things That Prove We’re Living in the Future
13 Things That Prove We’re Living in the Future
18 Things Everyone Secretly Believes But Never Admits
