The Cilantro Effect
Our enjoyment of media is subjective and it can be difficult to discuss why something is disliked, whether on an individual level or a popular opinion shared by many. Thus, I am creating a phrase that can be used as a shortcut to express one's distaste. My hope is this will create a better understanding between people with differing opinions on works of fiction.
Cilantro is a particularly divisive herb. There is evidence that a particular genetic trait causes people to dislike cilantro, often describing it as soapy or moldy tasting. Imagine a large bowl of guacamole made with cilantro, with a cilantro garnish on top. If a group of people were to share this, there would likely be varying opinions. Many would enjoy the cilantro. Some wouldn't notice it at all if not for the garnish on top. And a few would say it was almost good, but the cilantro ruined the experience for them. They tried to enjoy it, but a tasty bite would be tainted with the real Devil's lettuce. It would have been enjoyable for them, but there was too much cilantro.
As this aversion becomes common knowledge, it becomes easier for someone who loved a specific food item to understand the perspective of someone who disliked it purely because of the cilantro. Hopefully this shorthand can be used when discussing a film, TV show, book, etc.
"too much cilantro": when someone does not enjoy a work of fiction because of a particular aspect, and otherwise would have enjoyed it.
"I tried to enjoy Cloverfield, but it had too much cilantro. I find shakycam nauseating."
"Cilantro" in the above example is the style of filming. Other examples of cilantro in film or TV may be the use of a specific actor like Jared Leto, or poorly mixed dialogue which is a common complaint in Christopher Nolan's action movies, or having immersion broken by a pet peeve such as unrealistic use of silencers. For books, cilantro may be overuse of jargon or neologisms, an unsatisfying twist, or poor editing. Cowboy Bebop is one of the most popular anime among western audiences because it lacks many common anime cilantro. For some, Wes Anderson films are a cilantro bouquet.
By using the phrase "too much cilantro", people can more easily convey their feelings about a specific aspect of a work, rather than having to fully explain their entire perspective. This can help to facilitate more productive and understanding conversations about media and hopefully lead to a greater appreciation of differing opinions.
Avatar 2 had way too much cilantro.