When George Lucas made Star Wars, Stanly Kubrik berated him for the sounds and explosions in space, where the actual affect would be far different.. to which George responded by saying that the public demanded the flash and booms. It's part of the entertainment.
I look at the 'unreality' that such films provide and I tolerate it, because if the film isn't successfull, there will be no sequel. And, a little of a bad thing with a lot of good is better than none of either.
I'm also one of those that can watch 2001 over and over and appreciate it for the true genius it was.