Unlikeable characters on the rise...

[HenryNOTCavill]

I really considered putting this in the TV thread but I think it applies to both TV and film, and I'd like to know if others have noticed or even care.

Recently my sig other tried to get me to watch a new show that turned me off instantly by how unlikeable the main characters were, and I started to think about how we're seeing this much more often over the last number of years. Personally I'm tired of it.

We usually get some stilted character (either by direction or lack of acting ability I can never be sure) who has to act tough which equates to acting emotionless most of the time. Maybe it's some weird concern about smiling too much and now we're getting the exact opposite? Lead roles used to be encouraging and gave you a reason to root for them. Now you have to sift through entire seasons (or movies) before they slowly bring out any redeeming qualities. As Hermione once phrased it, they have the "emotional range of a teaspoon." (Ironically, I don't think Emma Watson has much range either, but I liked her in that role).

So do you think this is more common? If so, do you think it's how actors are being directed and told to play characters or are they just hiring more and more stilted actors. I guess I just miss the days where you actually liked the lead roles in films/shows more.