From: jcs
The concept of an antihero is timeless, with the term itself originating in modern cinema. This character type contrasts sharply with the traditional villain, eliciting different emotional responses from audiences [03:09:00].
Characteristics of an Antihero
An antihero is a character who often possesses traits that would typically make them unlikable, yet audiences find themselves rooting for them [03:50:00]. They are flawed individuals whose moral complexity mirrors our own [03:57:00]. Unlike traditional heroes, antiheroes make mistakes and are depicted as learning and growing through life’s path [04:02:00]. The connection audiences feel to an antihero is often a reflection of themselves, as rooting for their redemption can be seen as rooting for one’s own [04:08:00].
A key element distinguishing an antihero from a villain is the presence of a “glimmer of humanity” alongside a “noticeable vulnerability” [04:31:00]. This allows viewers to connect with and forgive them when they act unethically, yet admire them when they are noble [04:41:00]. Antiheroes can display a range of emotions and behaviors, being angry, cowardly, and greedy, but also cheerful, brave, and empathetic [04:49:00].
Example: Willy from Bad Santa
A textbook example of an antihero is Willy, the protagonist from the 2003 film Bad Santa [03:19:00]. Willy is a middle-aged man who lies, cheats, steals, swears at children, consumes excessive alcohol, and is generally unpleasant to everyone he encounters [03:27:00]. Despite these highly unlikable traits, audiences somehow root for him throughout his story [03:50:00].
Antihero vs. Villain
While both antiheroes and villains can be driven by selfish motivations, the audience’s emotional response to them differs significantly [04:24:00].
- Antihero: Audiences tend to embrace and relate to antiheroes [04:20:00]. This connection stems from their flaws and vulnerabilities, which make them relatable [04:31:00].
- Villain: Audiences typically despise and detach from villains [04:22:00]. The villain lacks the “glimmer of humanity” that allows for audience connection and forgiveness [04:31:00].
Jeff as an Antihero
Jeff, a heroin addict facing armed robbery charges in Georgia, has gained recognition as a cult figure in interrogation footage, not due to the notoriety of his crimes, but his own popularity [02:43:24]. This interest aligns with the concept of an antihero [03:02:24].
While many cannot relate to a decade-long heroin addiction, the underlying feeling of sadness and the adversity that comes with such a struggle are relatable [05:07:00]. Jeff’s situation is a “crossroad moment” where his immediate choices will dictate his entire future, leading either to hope or despair [05:30:00]. Facing potential withdrawal during his interrogation [05:47:00], Jeff’s vulnerability is palpable.
His outcome, whether redemption or destruction, is uncertain, with varying accounts suggesting he either got clean and found corporate work or was re-arrested and faces a 15-year sentence [12:29:00]. This unknown, dualistic conclusion, driven by the theme of addiction, defines Jeff as an antihero, as his path will inevitably lead to either salvation or destruction, fitting the typical antihero’s ending [13:11:00].