#Article The power of fictional love: why we invest in on-screen romance?

Have you ever stopped to think about the couples that inhabit our favorite TV shows, books, and movies? Those love stories that make us sigh, root, and even daydream.

Surely, we all have a fictional couple that we ardently root for, fervently wishing that they find happiness together. For us, Magnum PI fans, we can say that this couple is Miggy (Thomas Magnum and Juliet Higgins).

But why do we feel so deeply connected to these relationships that only exist on the pages of a book or on the screens of a cinema? It’s easy to find ourselves involved in the lives of these characters, rooting for their happiness as if they were dear friends or even part of our own journey. This emotional connection goes beyond simple entertainment; it is a reflection of our deepest desires for love and connection.

It’s fascinating to note how invested we become in the love lives of characters that we know are merely figments of imagination. The truth is, we see ourselves reflected in them in various ways. As we identify with their struggles, triumphs, and challenges, we also project our own hopes and dreams onto these fictional relationships.

Historically, narratives tend to follow a structure that culminates in a happy ending. This trend is not accidental; happy endings have a powerful impact on us. They leave us with a sense of satisfaction and hope, reinforcing the belief that even in the toughest circumstances, true love can prevail.

Additionally, our empathy for the characters plays a significant role in our involvement with their relationships. When we emotionally connect with a character, we want to see them happy and fulfilled. Thus, we root for the success of their relationships because it reflects our desire to see those we love happy, even if they are fictional characters.

Reflections on real life:

These reflections on our relationships with fictional couples also lead us to ponder our own lives. Are we actively seeking our own “happily ever after”? Do we project our hopes and dreams onto others, much like we do with fictional characters? These are important questions that invite us to a deeper analysis of our own lives and relationships.

Thomas Magnum and Juliet Higgins:

Speaking of fictional couples who have captured our hearts, we cannot fail to mention Thomas Magnum and Juliet Higgins from the Magnum PI series. Over five years, we witnessed their journey, getting to know every aspect of their lives, their strengths, and weaknesses. They captivated us with their dramas, traumas, and above all, with their evolution as individuals. Magnum and Higgins are a shining example of two souls who, despite their emotional wounds and scars, found healing and redemption in each other’s arms. Their story is an inspiring reminder that true love has the power to heal and transform.

I don’t know about you, but in my opinion, there was a huge missing scene right after the hospital balcony, exactly as the last episode of the fourth season ended. I mean, we waited for four years for them to admit their feelings and after that finally happened, we didn’t see the aftermath of the first kiss? It hurt our fan soul (they could have cut the shower scene and given us a beautiful aftermath scene. Or both).

Anyway… The good news is that we have talented fans who write fanfics based on Miggy’s story, and the vast majority of them are great. We can have the much-desired scene in these stories. With that in mind, I’ve gathered here some of the fanfic authors that I love to read and think respect the characters, writing them exactly as they are in the show.

(there’re so much more)

Our fascination and rooting for fictional couples are a reflection of our own desires and aspirations. These stories inspire us, challenge us, and make us believe in the power of love. So, the next time we find ourselves rooting for that favorite fictional couple, let’s remember that ultimately, we are rooting for ourselves and our own happily ever afters.

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