Why is it that movies try to be as realistic as possible while plays often have premises from left field?

Question

I go to a lot of plays and see a lot of movies. The big difference is -- even if they are fantasy -- movies try to be as realistic as possible with effects, fact-checking, setting up realistic scenarios and believable characters, while plays don't seem to care much about those things.

For example, Star Wars, even though it's a wild fantasy, strives hard to tie all of these characters into some huge storyline and when, as another example, Luke becomes a Jedi and Obi Wan dies, there's a reason there. But a play, even something somewhat mainstream, has people acting in ways that they don't act in real life. They think aloud, hurt more when struck, act more emotional in general, and usually what we have is just a slice of life, a moment in time, often without a clear beginning or ending. Plays are more about maintaining a theme, teaching a lesson.

Which do you enjoy more, plays or movies?

Answer 1

I think that it is a fair assessment of the two artistic mediums. I think this has to do with the structural form of a play, i.e. the playhouse where it's being performed. By having actors perform on an open stage, the viewing audience often serve as an omniscient body, where we as viewers are allowed to evaluate the actions of the characters with a rare palatable quality. Thus, you're more likely to find play scripts with more outlandish plot sequences and emotional monologues. So, you're spot on about the tendency for films not to include such details in their presentations.

Answer 2

Well, I think movies have so many more mediums to create moods or scenarios.  They can depend upon camera angles, quick scene changes, music, lighting, etc. to convey the message.  Whereas, plays must rely on the characters to deliver the story because lighting, scenery and music are limited.  

But I agreee.  Overall plays are very melodramatic.  

Personally, I enjoy a live play more because I it's a real treat for me to see live show.