Investigating the Impact of Film and TV Scenes on Adolescents’ Attitudes towards Love: A Case Study of Character Image Construction

Abstract

With the widespread influence of movies, many young individuals have sought inspiration for romantic love from television and film. A healthy perspective on love is essential for the development of adolescents. This research employs semiotic analysis of the TV series Empresses in the Palace to investigate the views on love held by the female protagonist Zhen Huan and male protagonist Guo Jun Wang, as well as their potential impact on young viewers. The findings indicate that Zhen Huan and Guo Jun Wang’s romantic relationship aligns with numerous criteria advocated by contemporary psychology for nurturing intimate relationships. Notably, Guo Jun Wang’s character stands out for providing Zhen Huan with nurturing and healing rather than a transformative, dominant assistance that could completely alter her life. In contrast to traditional portrayals in most TV shows and films where women play supporting roles in romantic relationships, Empresses in the Palace presents audiences with a distinctly male character, challenging gender stereotypes and demonstrating that women can also exhibit clarity, independence, rationality, and control within romantic partnerships. This study encourages future television and film productions to diversify character representations and introduce fresh perspectives to audiences.