10 Ridiculous Movie Myths About Explosions

8. Walking Away From An Explosion Is Totally Badass

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF5XrOvEjqU It's a cliche that just invites laughter from most of us these days, but it's something filmmakers insist on shoving down our throats because they think it makes characters look badass. Indeed, often in an attempt to cement the protagonist's stature as a tough guy, he will light an explosion, by throwing a lighter into a petrol station or striking a trail of some short, and then not even look back when the explosion goes off. Aside from the fact he's depriving himself the satisfaction of witnessing an awesome explosion - though perhaps the point is that he's seen so many that it has ceased to become enjoyable? - it's just plain stupid. Even ignoring that explosions have shockwaves, they more dangerously will send shrapnel flying your way, especially in the event that you blow up a car or, you know, a helicopter that has rotor blades and stuff.