Art of the Cinema - Violence and Robocop

As violent and raw as Robocop is, Paul Verhoeven brings together a perfect mixture of 'fun' and realistic violence. The destruction and vandalism in major cities and slums in the 1980s was out of control, a reality accurately depicted in Robocop that audiences could relate to. While the public could relate to city-run organized crime, it's easier for the viewer to relate on a personal level to the trials and tribulations of the protagonist. Because the story is centered around the protagonist, the viewer automatically begins to alter their moral reality and sense of right-and-wrong to suit and justify the actions and feelings of the protagonist. Murdering a man is wrong; but seeking justice and removing a dangerous killer from the streets, doesn't sound so bad. As we shape this reality more and more, the negative consequences of murdering a man becomes less and less prevalent, and more of a crusade to restore all back to good. And while violence is a major staple in any action or thriller, it's only one of many traits used in conjunction with each other to create the art of cinema. When Peter Weller's character is shot to bits by the antagonists' gang, although the blood and gore is slightly over the top, it's meant to evoke a strong reaction, possibly anger towards the antagonists, or pity and sympathy for the protagonist. Even though the violence is right in your face in gruesome detail, it never overpowers or takes away from the artist purpose of the film.