projection on movie characters of desirable characteristics
that do not “fit” into our self-image. Understanding this kind
of projection helps us recognize these admirable qualities in
ourselves. Gaining recognition of our positive character
traits in this indirect way helps us in the process of learning
to own these previously hidden qualities. In order for us to
realize our full potential, they need to be discovered and
developed.
An even more general definition of projection includes the
process of assuming that others feel, perceive, and act similarly
to the way we feel, perceive, or act. Here projection refers to
all conscious or unconscious interpretations of our life experi-
ence. According to this definition it is not necessary for a pro-
jected trait to be unconscious. We are already conscious of pos-
itive or negative traits that we project on a movie character. We
learn to remember these traits and to fully recognize and
acknowledge them in ourselves as we see them in the charac-
ters. This way our positive qualities can be strengthened. As we
deepen our understanding of how we see ourselves in a nega-
tive way, we become better able to either improve our short-
comings or let go of our negative perspective. It helps to know
that other people, who are like the film characters, struggle
with similar deficiencies.
To clarify the process of projection the following are steps
that we go through as we watch a movie.
Stages of projection when we identify with
characters or their actions:
- Watching a character outside ourselves in a movie.
- Beginning to identify with a character, scene, etc.— “I feel
like a character,” or “I hate what he is doing.” - Starting to develop a sense of ownership of what was felt
through a character or scene. “This feels exactly like my
life.”
How Film Characters Affect Us — The Film Matrix 129