In everyday life, people tend to recall negatively perceived individuals or characters long after they have encountered them or finished watching a movie featuring such figures. This means that even if someone has seen multiple films with various characters, the ones who were considered antagonistic or unsavory often stick out in their memory.
This statement also touches upon the human tendency to be more attuned and remember negative experiences over positive ones—a concept known as negativity bias. In storytelling, particularly in movies and literature, memorable villains are often crafted with complex personalities and motivations that make them intriguing and unforgettable. These characters can evoke strong emotions such as fear, anger, or fascination, which help cement their place in audience memory longer than other less impactful figures. Additionally, the enduring influence of these characters can contribute to broader societal discussions about morality, ethics, and human nature.
Steven Berkoff is a renowned British actor, director, writer, and teacher. Known for his distinctive voice and intense performances, he has appeared in numerous stage productions and films throughout his career. His work spans across various genres, but it often explores themes of power, corruption, and the darker aspects of human behavior, which align with his observation about memorable characters being those that are more negative or challenging to societal norms.
