Debunking Hollywood Myths About the United States (10 photos)

Almost everyone visiting the US for the first time experiences a sense of culture shock. The real country looks surprisingly different from its cinematic portrayal. Instead of gleaming skyscrapers, visitors are greeted by modest one- and two-story homes; instead of flashy muscle cars, beat-up old Dodges; and instead of the toned, smiling athletes of

Baywatch

, tired everyday people carrying a few extra pounds and plenty of personal struggles. Here is a look at how the Hollywood vision of America stacks up against reality.





Carefree Youth



If movies are anything to go by, young Americans spend all their time partying, going out, and traveling the world. What film directors rarely reveal, however, is who is footing the bill. In reality, only a select few with wealthy parents can afford such a lavish lifestyle. The vast majority of young people live modestly and have to watch every penny.

A Nation of Athletes





The "Dream Factory" portrays Americans as a nation made up entirely of football players, hoopers, bodybuilders, and cheerleaders. But this couldn't be further from the truth—you won't easily stumble upon fitness buffs everywhere you look. Statistics show that no more than 19 to 20 percent of Americans exercise regularly.

Fast Food Culture



Movies have taught us that everyone in America survives exclusively on fast food. While it's true that fast-food culture is huge in the US, the reality is a bit more nuanced. Americans generally fall into two camps: die-hard Big Mac and soda lovers on one end, and health-obsessed calorie counters on the other.

Guns



Action movies often feature heroes walking into a gun store, casually picking out a revolver or shotgun, paying cash, and strolling off to save the world. While purchasing a firearm in the US may be easier than in many other countries, it is far from a casual, impulse buy. Navigating permits and background checks is a complex process, and not everyone passes.

Crime and Law Enforcement



Hollywood thrillers regularly depict slick, charismatic criminals outsmarting bumbling cops and federal agents. In real life, law enforcement officers in the US are highly trained professionals who are usually two steps ahead of the bad guys. The odds of effortlessly slipping through the fingers of justice are slim to none.

Gorgeous People



Silver screens are filled with square-jawed heartthrobs and drop-dead gorgeous models, but don't let that fool you. You are actually much more likely to spot model-tier looks on the streets of Eastern Europe than in everyday America. Most locals struggle with weight issues and are simply too busy to spend all day working on their appearance.

Cutting-Edge Technology



Films make it look like Americans are already living in the future, surrounded by electric cars, smart home tech, and futuristic gadgets. This is yet another romanticized trope. Many Americans still use basic feature phones, and plenty don't even own a computer. Walk into a typical public school, and you're more likely to see aging desktop PCs with outdated monitors.

Empty Tourist Hotspots



On screen, iconic landmarks like Central Park or Times Square often look atmospheric and peaceful, with only a few pedestrians in sight. If you visit these famous spots in real life, you'll be met with overwhelming crowds of tourists. The same goes for the sunny beaches of California and Florida, which are almost always packed despite their massive length.

Shoes Indoors



Movie characters routinely walk around their homes in outdoor shoes—and even kick back on sofas or beds without taking them off. While streets in the US might be relatively clean, Americans don't abandon basic hygiene. In real life, sensible people don't climb into bed wearing their street shoes.