Flaw Forgiveness Factor

Every film has flaws, even the most well thought out ones. Plot holes and mistakes are simply inevitable. 

You may be reading this and thinking ‘nah, not true, what about [insert film title you swear by], 

There are many variables which flaws could be measured by: writing, dialogue, score, editing, casting or just practicalities (Was the door really too small for Rose and Jack?)

The real question is if its flawed to you.

By that reasoning, I have coined the term: Flaw Forgiveness Factor.

When you watch a film, it’s rarely to experience a completely realistic portrayal of reality. (Even the films based in reality)

Even so, I like to consider that the people who made the film cared enough to aim for quality. 

Maybe not to the extent of traumatising your actors (looking at you, Kubrick)

But the point is not about striving for perfection in cinema. It is, essentially Art, mixed with entertainment and becomes a journey to go on. 

The creative puts their ideas into practice, most likely it will not be what they originally hoped. 

But there are things you can deem essentially intentional or thoughtlessly thrown in. And that does not make you a hater. But a lover. Even the criticism shows you what you appreciate. Where you value quality and where you see it lacking. 

The idea is that when can we actually tell if we have enjoyed a film?

When we are happy to forgive the flaws. If you find you are finding yourself noticing more and more flaws. It's a good indicator that it's not for you. 

You don’t have to love every single second of a film to love it overall. 

Think about it, the people who made the film made silly choices, things went awry, plot holes happened. But sometimes, you just don't care.

Why am I totally fine with historical inaccuracies in Marie Antoinette, but if something feels off in another period drama, I cringe?

It comes down to a gut feeling. If a film gives you a genuine experience, you’re willing to forgive the cracks. If it feels cheap or tries to trick you (looking at you, pointless jump scares), the forgiveness ratio drops to zero.