What are Longueurs?
Longueurs refer to parts of a work (such as a movie, play, or book) that are overly long, dull, or repetitive, causing the audience to lose interest or become bored. They are often characterized by a lack of action, purposeless dialogue, or unnecessary scenes that do not advance the plot.
Examples of Longueurs
One famous example of longueurs is the lengthy courtroom scene in the movie ‘The Godfather’. While the film is a classic, this particular scene is often criticized for dragging on and losing viewer engagement. Another example is the excessive description of landscapes in some novels, leading to the story feeling stagnant.
Case Studies on Longueurs
- In a study on the impact of longueurs in films, researchers found that audiences were more likely to give negative reviews to movies that contained prolonged and uneventful scenes.
- A theatre production that had a long and repetitive monologue in the middle of the play saw a decrease in ticket sales and audience retention, showcasing the negative effects of longueurs on live performances.
Statistics on Longueurs
In a survey of readers, 67% reported losing interest in a book due to longueurs, highlighting the importance of keeping a story engaging and fast-paced. Additionally, 45% of viewers admitted to checking their phones during movies with boring or dragging scenes.
