The Rise of ‘Relatable Realism’ in Entertainment: Why Messy Family Dynamics are Captivating Audiences
Mef Ajulo’s “Third Servings” comic series, with its depiction of a struggling family restaurant and the everyday chaos within, isn’t an isolated case. It’s part of a growing trend in entertainment – a move towards “relatable realism.” Audiences are increasingly drawn to stories that mirror the complexities of their own lives, flaws and all. Forget the polished perfection of traditional narratives; people want to see themselves reflected in the media they consume.
The Fatigue of Fantasy: Why Authenticity Matters Now
For decades, escapism dominated entertainment. But a saturation of superhero blockbusters and idealized lifestyles has led to a noticeable fatigue. A 2023 study by Nielsen found that 61% of global consumers prefer content that feels “authentic” and “real,” even if it’s not always uplifting. This isn’t about wanting depressing stories; it’s about wanting honest ones. “Third Servings” taps into this by showcasing the messy, often unglamorous reality of family businesses and sibling relationships.
This shift is particularly pronounced among Millennials and Gen Z, who grew up with the internet and a constant stream of curated content. They’re adept at spotting inauthenticity and crave genuine connection. TikTok, with its emphasis on raw, unfiltered content, is a prime example of this preference.
Family Businesses: A Fertile Ground for Storytelling
The family business setting, as featured in “Third Servings,” is particularly resonant. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, family-owned businesses represent 90% of all businesses in the United States. This means a vast majority of the population has direct experience with – or knows someone who has – the unique dynamics at play: blurred lines between personal and professional, inherited expectations, and the emotional weight of legacy.
Think of the success of shows like “Succession” (HBO), which, while dealing with extreme wealth, fundamentally explores the dysfunctional dynamics of a family controlling a media empire. Or the enduring appeal of “Schitt’s Creek” (CBC/Pop TV), which showcased a wealthy family forced to rebuild their lives in a small town, highlighting their evolving relationships. These stories resonate because they explore universal themes of family, ambition, and belonging, even within extraordinary circumstances.
Pro Tip: When crafting stories centered around family businesses, focus on the internal conflicts and the sacrifices made. The external challenges (financial struggles, competition) are important, but the emotional core is what will truly connect with audiences.
The Power of ‘Painfully Ordinary’ Humor
“Third Servings”’ humor isn’t based on slapstick or outlandish scenarios. It’s derived from the awkwardness and frustration of everyday interactions. This type of humor – often described as “cringe comedy” – is gaining traction. It’s funny because it’s recognisable.
Comedians like Nate Bargatze and John Mulaney have built massive followings by focusing on relatable observations about everyday life. Their success demonstrates that audiences don’t always need grand narratives; they appreciate a well-told story about a frustrating trip to the grocery store or a miscommunication with a family member.
Future Trends: Micro-Narratives and Interactive Storytelling
We can expect to see this trend towards relatable realism continue to evolve in several ways:
- Micro-Narratives: Shorter-form content, like webcomics, TikTok videos, and Instagram stories, will become increasingly popular for delivering these authentic, bite-sized narratives.
- Interactive Storytelling: Platforms that allow audiences to participate in the narrative – through polls, choices, or even co-creation – will further enhance the sense of connection and authenticity.
- Hyper-Local Storytelling: Stories rooted in specific communities and cultures, reflecting the unique experiences of those groups, will gain prominence.
- Increased Representation: A demand for more diverse and inclusive stories that accurately portray the lives of underrepresented communities.
Did you know? The rise of user-generated content platforms has democratized storytelling, allowing more voices to be heard and contributing to the demand for authenticity.
The Business of Relatability: Marketing and Brand Strategy
This trend isn’t limited to entertainment. Brands are also recognizing the power of relatability in their marketing efforts. Authenticity is now a key differentiator. Consumers are more likely to trust and engage with brands that are transparent, honest, and willing to show their imperfections. Think of the success of brands like Aerie (American Eagle’s lingerie sub-brand) which champions body positivity and uses unretouched images in its advertising.
FAQ
- What is “relatable realism”? It’s a storytelling approach that prioritizes authenticity and portrays characters and situations that feel grounded in everyday life.
- Why is this trend gaining popularity? Audiences are experiencing fatigue with overly polished and escapist narratives and are craving genuine connection.
- What types of stories fit this trend? Stories about family dynamics, workplace challenges, personal struggles, and everyday observations.
- How can brands leverage this trend? By being transparent, authentic, and showcasing their imperfections.
Explore more comics and art that capture the beauty of everyday life here. What relatable stories have resonated with you lately? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
