Following my previous Doctor Who post, I spent a significant amount of time discussing opposing views on the season. It was a great conversation, and it answered for me a significant question: Why do we write so passionately about our favorite media? Why do we pick apart the stories, the acting, the writing, and the production values?

For me, it’s about the conversation, the exchange of ideas regarding the human condition. The very best stories give us insight into what it means to be human, and that’s a big part of what I get out of writing about and discussing television, movies, books, and other forms of entertainment. I learn a bit more about myself, my friends, and life in general through sharing thoughts, feelings, and ideas.

It may appear silly on the surface, but what we find entertaining says a lot about our character and our nature. Although I know as well as anyone that what we choose to entertain us can influence our attitudes and actions, I have observed that we tend to be drawn to entertainment that reflects back at us attitudes already within us. We are drawn to romance because we desire romance. We are drawn to comedy because we want to laugh. We are drawn to violence because some violent impulse within us is seeking release.

I mostly like intelligent, thought-provoking entertainment. However, sometimes I like to turn my brain off and enjoy something stupid. That’s rare, but it happens from time to time. I tend to prefer stories involving personal conflict, although I’m fine when the stakes are global or galactic as well as personal. Star Wars and the Avengers are great examples of such blending. Doctor Who has been better at it in the past, as has Star Trek.

I like to he conversation because it connects me to those of common beliefs and common interests. And ultimately, I believe, entertainment is about making connections.