Cancer on screen: comparing the effects of films on audiences based on their companionship level with cancer and their lifestyle changes

This article analyzes the short-term effects of cancer-themed films on viewers’ access to information, screening/consultation intentions, and low-threshold lifestyle steps, within the context of personal/family proximity to cancer. Two separate groups were formed for the films Ordinary Love and Our Family; each film group consisted of five adults with experience of cancer (A) and five without (B), totaling twenty adults. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants before the film, immediately after the screening, and on the tenth day; data were analyzed comparatively along the axes of time (before/after/follow-up) and group (A/B, film). The findings reveal an increase in information-seeking and screening/consultation intentions for both films, as well as the emergence of actionable steps, including taking short walks, simplifying one’s diet, and reducing smoking/alcohol consumption. These effects are more rapid and concrete in action in group A, while in group B, they are more focused on the planning level. The results show that realistic and everyday narratives can be used as a tool to strengthen the immediate determinants of cancer awareness. Although the small and purposeful sample, short (10-day) follow-up, and self-selection bias due to voluntary participation limit the generalizability of the findings, the study shows that realistic and applicable cinematic narratives are a valuable tool for strengthening the immediate determinants of cancer awareness and that the level of proximity to cancer shapes these effects.