Exploring the role of meaningful experiences in users’ appreciation of “good movies”

This article extends current theorizing in media psychology on audience responses to cinema by examining individuals’ perceptions of meaningfulness. Specifically, it presents the results of a study designed to expand upon research on psychological and subjective well-being to experiences and memories of films that are perceived as particularly meaningful by viewers. Characteristics and themes of such films are examined and identified, as well as the specific emotional responses that accompany perceptions of meaningful cinema.