[jondubois]

I think that Americans are extremely optimistic. It seems that many Americans believe in fate, at least on a subconscious level; that everything happens for a reason and that everything will work out in the end.

Maybe it's related to the kinds of movies that Americans watch? I love watching Hollywood movies sometimes, but I have to say that compared to international films, the characters in American movies tend to be much more one-dimensional (have very well defined roles) and everything always works out for them in the end.

If you watch European movies, the characters are often hard to pin down and the story often ends either badly or unsatisfying at best... Just like real life.

[genzoman]

Then why just go outside and experience your unsatisfying life instead of paying to see a movie about it?

[jondubois]

That way I can learn about all the other ways in which life can go wrong.