Despite offering a valuable service to countless individuals and communities, pawnshops often face negative portrayals in popular culture. This exchange of money for valuables can be traced back over 2000 years ago and has long acted as a fast and easy loan solution that acts as a vital lifeline to people in need of short-term financial assistance.
And yet, pawnbroking has been subject to some unfavourable depictions in the media. Films and television have often portrayed pawnshops as seedy dens run by unscrupulous characters that prey on the unfortunate, but the reality couldn’t be more nuanced. In fact, especially during the cost-of-living crisis, pawnbrokers have emerged as an invaluable way of making ends meet.
Depiction in Films
The silver screen has been notorious for depicting pawnshops as shadowy, crime-ridden establishments that often work as a fence for organised crime. Some of the most critically acclaimed movies of all time like The Godfather and Pulp Fiction show them as havens for stolen goods and shady dealings.
It’s important to highlight that pawnbrokers are legally obligated to report suspicious items so these portrayals can create an inaccurate picture of the vast majority of pawn shops. There are databases and codes of practice that ensure goods are legally obtained and protect the interests of those selling them.
Portrayals on Television
TV shows such as Pawn Stars and Million Pound Pawn offer a glimpse into the day-to-day operations of some pawnshops and are amongst some of the most popular programmes on television. Viewers follow the interactions of entertaining characters that are always appraising valuables, hunting for unique items and get an insight into the human stories attached to goods.
The focus on rare and big money finds can overshadow the more common service of providing short-term loans to everyday people, which suggests these shows are not entirely representative of the industry.
Representation in Literature
Literature too, has a mixed relationship with pawnbroking. Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist features the infamous Fagin, a pawnbroker with a less-than-reputable character who exploits orphans. In contemporary novels like Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn, the potential for exploitation within the industry is highlighted by the antagonist pawnbroker.
On the other hand, Jess Walter’s Beautiful Ruins explores pawnshops as a place to obtain essential items in times of hardship and uncover some treasures.
Common Stereotypes and Misconceptions
The most prevalent stereotypes associated with pawnbroking mainly focus on predatory practices, stolen goods and desperate clientele. In most cases, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Pawnbrokers are not loan sharks but instead are regulated businesses that offer secure loans with clearly defined interest rates and repayment terms. The items procured are verified for legitimacy before acceptance and while some people facing financial difficulty may use pawn shops, their clientele is diverse.
