Are feelings for on-screen characters “real?” A University professor explains.

As streaming becomes a staple in nearly every household in Canada, people regularly hear stories of fiction played out or voiced by actors. But how is it that we are able to connect so strongly with characters we can only see on our TV’s?

University of Lethbridge Professor Dr. Aaron Taylor dives into the question at a speaking event this week on how people connect with on-screen characters and what enables our potential feelings for them. He dives into the complexities of how people connect with characters. If these feelings are considered “real” and how actors are able to bring them to life.

Dr. Taylor is a professor and coordinator of the new Bachelor of Arts in Cinema and Media studies program. According to Dr. Taylor, the work of the actor is crucial to convince the viewer of what a story intends to communicate.

His presentation at the University of Lethbridge’s Science Commons Atrium is this Thursday at 7 p.m.