Why Movies Portray Americans with Cheek Kissing Gestures: Insights into American Culture and Cinema

Have you ever noticed how often movies and TV shows depict Americans kissing cheeks? While this may seem out of place to some, it is a common practice in many countries, including Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. In this article, we will explore why these gestures often appear in films, whether they accurately represent American culture, and how they can enhance storytelling and character dynamics.

Why Movies Often Depict Americans with Cheek Kissing Gestures

Unlike in reality, movies frequently show characters exchanging cheek kisses. This portrayal can be attributed to several factors:

Cultural Influence: Many films aim to represent diverse cultures and social norms. Cheek kissing is a common greeting in many European, Latin American, and Middle Eastern countries. Filmmakers might include this gesture to reflect the characters' backgrounds or the social dynamics within a scene. Character Relationships: A cheek kiss can indicate familiarity, affection, or intimacy between characters. In movies, this non-verbal gesture can quickly convey the nature of a relationship without needing extensive dialogue, making it a powerful storytelling tool. Dramatic Effect: Filmmakers often use gestures like cheek kissing to heighten emotional moments or to add a layer of sophistication or warmth to interactions. This can make the scene more engaging and memorable for the audience. Cinematic License: Movies sometimes exaggerate or alter real-life norms for storytelling purposes. The aim is to create engaging and memorable scenes, even if they don't strictly adhere to everyday American customs.

Does Cheek Kissing Actually Happen in American Society?

While the cheek kiss might not be the norm in American greetings, it does occur in certain settings and among specific groups. Some Americans, particularly those in what I would call for lack of a better term, 'high society,' might engage in this custom. I know this from personal experience; I don't kiss cheeks and often find myself dodging them when I encounter someone who does.

Some events, meetings, or social gatherings, especially in culturally diverse settings, might see cheek kissing as part of the greeting ritual. Even if it's not common, it's not uncommon at all for someone to greet you with a hug and a cheek kiss, particularly for family members, close friends, or colleagues in professional contexts.

Conclusion

While the depiction of Americans with cheek kissing gestures in movies might seem incongruous with reality, it serves a purpose in storytelling and character representation. Filmmakers use these gestures to illustrate cultural diversity and enhance the emotional resonance of their scenes. Understanding these elements can provide a deeper appreciation for the nuances of cultural representation in cinema.