Doomcock had a video where he mentioned a possible spoiler for the Indiana Jones movie that the female co-Star will take over the role. With James Bond being the latest I’m wondering if at some point even normies will get sick of the “female takes over for male lead” trope.
Or the bait and switch. What’s crazy about Indiana Jones is that you already have Lara Croft and that show Relic Hunter. Don’t understand the need to replace Indy.
A part of me hopes you are wrong but considering all the people I know who will blindly watch any new MCU, Star Wars, Star Trek, etc I agree with you
I actually disagree somewhat. I think most people do enjoy it as much as they enjoy most everything.
Think of the types of people who don't like good movies or books because they have to think too much.
Someone that doesn't like to think probably doesn't critically enjoy media like you or I do.
So yes, there is a part of it of "following social cues" as you say, but people like to fit in. Fitting in makes them feel good, so they attribute enjoyment to the media and talking to others about it.
You aren't wrong per se, just allow more for the psychosocial stimuli and paths of lowest resistance that most people respond and react to