From: jcs
The concept of an antihero is timeless, with the term itself originating in modern cinema [03:09]. Unlike traditional heroes, antiheroes possess a complex blend of traits that resonate with audiences, often through their flaws and vulnerabilities [03:57].
Defining the Antihero
An antihero is a character who gains popularity not necessarily from the notoriety of their crimes, but through their own unique appeal [02:49]. The collective reason for interest in such a character often stems from their portrayal as an antihero [03:02].
A textbook example of an antihero is Willy, the protagonist from the 2003 film Bad Santa [03:19]. Willy is described as a character who lies, cheats, steals, swears at children, drinks excessively, and is generally unpleasant to everyone [03:27]. Despite these traits, audiences inexplicably root for him [03:50].
Key Traits and Audience Connection
Antiheroes are inherently flawed, mirroring the moral complexities found within individuals [03:57]. They are portrayed as learning and growing through life’s challenges [04:02]. Their mistakes often prompt self-reflection in the audience, leading to a desire to root for their redemption, which can be a reflection of one’s own hopes for personal growth [04:06].
Antihero vs. Villain
While both antiheroes and villains are driven by selfish motivations, the audience’s emotional response to them differs significantly [04:24]. Audiences tend to embrace and relate to the antihero, whereas they despise and detach from the villain [04:20].
The Antihero Formula
The key difference lies in a relatively simple formula: “The anti-hero must have a glimmer of humanity alongside a noticeable vulnerability” [04:31]. This allows the viewer to truly connect with the character, forgiving their unethical actions while admiring their noble ones [04:41]. An antihero can exhibit a range of emotions and behaviors, being angry, cowardly, and greedy, but also cheerful, brave, and empathetic [04:49].
Jeff as an Antihero
Jeff, a heroin addict of 14 years charged with armed robbery, becomes a cult figure in interrogation footage [01:43]. While many cannot relate to his addiction, his situation evokes sadness and an understanding of the adversity he faces [05:08]. The magnitude of his circumstances, including being at a life crossroads while going through heroin withdrawal, allows for a connection to his vulnerability and struggle [05:22].
The Antihero’s Conclusion
The conclusion of an antihero’s story is crucial, often leading to either salvation or destruction [12:22]. For Jeff, the final outcome remains unknown [12:26]. Various sources offer different fates:
- Legend 1: Jeff got clean after his release and now works in corporate marketing for Coca-Cola [12:35].
- Legend 2: He was re-arrested the day after for the same charge and faces a 15-year sentence in Georgia state prison [12:43].
According to the “Hollywood formula,” an antihero’s life actions are so extreme that they inevitably lead to one of two paths: salvation or destruction [12:50]. Their ultimate decision is shaped by what they have learned and how they have changed throughout their narrative [13:00]. For Jeff, the theme of addiction itself is sufficient to dictate this binary outcome, regardless of imprisonment [13:08]. His path will either lead to getting clean and rebuilding his life or failing to do so [13:16], a concept that defines him as an antihero, whose mysterious outcome conforms to the typical antihero’s ending [13:28].