Meek's Cutoff

Audience emotional responses to 'Meek's Cutoff' are dominated by a pervasive sense of Anxiety and Fear, stemming from the characters being lost, facing starvation and thirst in a desolate landscape, and the constant uncertainty of their survival. Sadness and Melancholy are high, reflecting the bleakness of their situation and the despair of their journey. Empathy is strong as viewers connect with the families' desperate struggle. Anticipation is present due to the suspense of what will happen next, particularly concerning their encounter with the Native American. Anger towards the incompetent guide and Confusion about their path also contribute to the emotional landscape, alongside a Disturbing sense of the harsh realities of their plight. The 'Adventure' genre here leans heavily into the grueling, survivalist aspect rather than excitement.