The Daily Think

“I was in it, the pit, you were in it, the pit, we all were in it, the pit” – The Pit – Mouse Rat 2008.

Ever watch a serious actor take on a role that might be off their usual track of Oscar nominated roles or movies?  Or the opposite, one who was comedic and light-hearted, and they take on a more serious toned role? You always see it, think Tom Hanks going from Bachelor Party, Splash, and the Burbs to Philadelphia, Forrest Gump and Captain Phillips (see previous article – https://thinknewsnow.com/2023/05/13/tom-hanks-return-your-oscar-awards-the-80s-want-you-back/ )  Or even a director like Peter Farrelly from dick and fart jokes to Oscar win (controversial win according to some.)   So, it got me thinking, is that a tactic or a strategy that the agent comes up with, or is it something other phenomenon at play?  Alas, the Pratfall Effect was revealed.

WHAT IS THE PRATFALL EFFECT?

The Pratfall Effect is a psychological phenomenon where a person’s perceived likability increases after they make a mistake or show a minor vulnerability. It is based on the idea that people often appear more approachable, relatable, and human when they are not perceived as perfect. The term “pratfall” refers to a minor blunder or a small, non-serious mistake.  Thinking of two of my favorite TV shows, Steve Carell in the Office and Chris Pratt from Parks and Recreation. They may have sinisterly charmed their way into our collective conscious by being the clownish and vulnerable characters of Michael Scott and Andy Dwyer, but was it all a strategic Move?  

GIMME SOME DEETS ON THE PRATFALL EFFECT

The Pratfall Effect was first studied and named by psychologist Elliot Aronson in the 1960s. Aronson conducted an experiment where participants listened to recordings of people answering quiz questions. In one condition, a person answered all the questions correctly, while in another condition, the same person answered most questions correctly but also spilled a cup of coffee. The participants in the second condition rated the person as more likable, even though they made a mistake, compared to the person who was perfect in their responses.  I may be grossly understating the full experiment but for the purposes of this article that should suffice. 

Several underlying psychological factors are at play when, we the people fall victim to these talented actors using the Pratfall method:

Perceived Similarity: When someone makes a minor mistake, others may perceive them as more similar to themselves (we could all fall into a Pit like Andy.) This perception of similarity fosters a sense of connection and relatability, leading to increased likability. 

Humanness and Authenticity: Displaying vulnerability or making a mistake can make a person seem more authentic and human (Michael Scott was one of the most authentic dudes in a TV office.) People tend to appreciate authenticity and are more likely to connect with individuals who show their true selves.

Attribution and Positive Characteristics: Observers may attribute positive qualities to individuals who make mistakes but handle them gracefully. For example, the ability to laugh at oneself or recover from an error can be associated with humility, confidence, and emotional intelligence.

Social Comparison: Witnessing someone’s mistake might also trigger social comparison, where people feel better about themselves by comparing their performance to the person who made the error.

Although the Pratfall Effect is not universal and may depend on the context. A minor, non-harmful mistake is more likely to trigger the effect than a major blunder that results in significant consequences. We don’t forgive major fuckups, but we can look past someone sitting on our glasses. Additionally, cultural, and individual differences may influence how people perceive and respond to mistakes.  Not all Seth Rogen Marijuana based films did so well in foreign markets.

HOW TO USE PRATFALL FOR SUCCESS

Pratfall usage can be used for pretty much anyone who has the natural comedic timing and of course Hollywood looks.  It’s not like I can start falling all over the place at my office, screw up a meeting with the PowerPoint deck, or spill coffee on the CEO and become a VP the next

day.  In Hollywood, there are specific ways that they can execute Pratfall that will lead to the next level for that actor.  It’s also not like they specifically do this as well, I am sure Tom Hanks did not say I will spend a decade making comedic films and then win 3 Oscar awards after my 15^th year. 

Self-Deprecating Humor: Celebrities who use self-deprecating humor in interviews, talk shows, or social media platforms often endear themselves to the public. By poking fun at their own mistakes, flaws, or embarrassing moments, they come across as humble and down-to-earth, making them more likable.  How many of us can’t help but fall in love with Jennifer Lawrence when she does anything kooky?!

Bloopers and Outtakes: The release of blooper reels and behind-the-scenes outtakes can humanize actors and showcase their genuine personalities beyond their on-screen personas. Audiences appreciate seeing their favorite stars in a more relaxed and candid light, making them more relatable. Jackie Chan bloopers for me were the best!

Public Apologies and Comebacks: When a celebrity faces a public scandal or mistake, a sincere and well-handled apology can invoke the Pratfall Effect. By taking responsibility for their actions and showing vulnerability, they can regain public support and sympathy, allowing for successful comebacks. RDJ’s battles with addiction or Hugh Grant cheating on the hottest woman on earth back in 1995 and making a public apology on the Tonight Show and still made (and continues to make) big movies.  This does not apply to MeToo perps, however.   

Handling Failures Gracefully: How celebrities handle failures and setbacks can significantly impact their public image. When they demonstrate resilience and perseverance despite obstacles, it can garner admiration from fans and industry alike. Jim Carey and Ben Stiller both suffered an L with The Cable Guy but bounced back and in Jim’s case pivoted onto his Post Pratfall Career.

Breaking Stereotypes: Celebrities who challenge stereotypes or reveal unexpected aspects of their personalities can benefit from the Pratfall Effect. It can expand their appeal beyond their typical audience and attract new fans who appreciate their authenticity.  Brad Pitt and Ryan Reynolds are some handsome dudes who would appear as heartthrobs often in roles but have carved out comedic careers in addition.

NOT ALWAYS A SUCCESSFUL PRATFALL

So the Pratfall cannot always be something any actor can pull off.  There are certain actors that you can challenge their versatility and say might not be a fit in a comedic role, think Liam Neeson, Christian Bale, Meryl Streep, Angelina, or Daniel Day-Lewis.  Although I wouldn’t challenge them and say they couldn’t do something because if Ace Ventura could come out of a Rhino’s butt in one year to narrowly losing an Oscar for best actor in another, anything is possible.