A question, DeviantArt viewers, if you would...

I understand that death is a part of life, especially when war and violent conflict are involved. So... I have a question for you, because this is something I have debated with numerous people and I am curious as to your responses-

Does the death of a character in a series (TV, Movie, Book, etc) make the story more real? Is the death of a character necessary to exemplify the true, disturbing nature of the conflict? Is it so unrealistic that everyone makes it out ok?

Tell me what your feelings are, please. I am interested.