Detectives (a.k.a private investigators) are a common element in Hollywood movies. Some famous examples include Sherlock Holmes, Sam Spade, and Miss Marple. These characters are portrayed as dark, mysterious, but equally clever people.
They are also seen wearing similar outfits, which include hats, long coats, and briefcases. But here’s the truth – private investigators in Australia, the US, the UK, and other parts of the world don’t really look like that. They are much different than what we see in the movies. This is why we have dedicated this post to comparing private investigators in movies and reality. Let’s uncover the truth!
- Elite Lifestyle
Private investigators are usually wealthy folks in the movies. You find them dressed in the finest clothes while using top-notch technology to do their job. From lie detectors to hologram assistants, they have everything available at their fingertips.
But, in reality, these detectives are just like any other people. Their jobs pay them a good amount, but they are not big enough to afford an extravagant lifestyle. The use of specialized tools and equipment also needs to be requested from the authorities first.
- Superhuman Capabilities
Most private investigators are strategic and dedicated individuals who spend a lot of time studying the cases and finding new ways to resolve the matter. However, they aren’t superhumans.
Unlike what’s shown in the movies, it takes them a lot of time and effort to research. A case may take anywhere from a week to several months. They also experience frustration, stress, and anxiety along the way. Their life isn’t as flawless as you see on TV.
- Legally Grey
Respecting the law is a huge part of private investigations. No detective can encroach on someone’s property or steal anything for the sake of evidence collection. They can also not engage in manipulation, deception, and other legally grey tactics.
A private investigator’s job is to collect and analyze information on their client’s concerned issue. All actions performed must be lawful, which is very different from what we see in the movies.
In the cinematic world, a detective is often seen doing unethical and illegal activities like hacking into other systems. Their actions are portrayed as necessary to fulfill the mission and save the protagonist – but in reality, they can face severe consequences for such methods.
- Loners with Rough Personalities
If you look at Sherlock Holmes or Sam Spade’s personality, you will notice another common attribute in these characters. They are lonely people who prefer working solo and can be found in their huge personal offices.
Their way of talking is also very unfriendly and rough. You can see the characters displaying anger, disappointment, and dislike towards other characters. But since they are the heroes, people trust what they are doing and don’t mind their behaviors.
In the real world, a private investigator can’t really behave like this, even if they want to. They need to stay professional and act respectfully towards their clients. They are also very approachable and expressive people.
You will also never find a private investigator working in a personal office with notes, pictures, and maps pinned to the walls. They usually work in modern buildings with meeting rooms for the teams to gather and discuss the collected material.
- Thrilling Adventures
Car chases, fire exchanges, and heroic combats – these are just ways to make a movie more interesting for the viewers. Private investigators never engage in such activities in reality. They don’t fight with criminals, shoot at them, or chase them.
Instead, their work process is rather research-based and formal. They would visit places, interview people, research databases, create reports, and resolve their client’s matters professionally.
