I don't think these are a good comparison. The nature documentaries are primarily visual (and since it's Attenborough involve a lot of Foley work). His docs are extremely well made, but you could still use them as wallpaper as I have seen some do.

Maybe the same could be said about the Marvel films. You don't have to concentrate much, but you are guessing some of what is going on.

Some programmes do require some more imagination or interaction. A murder mystery, if it's any good will get you wondering whodunnit. If you are watching a better quality gameshow, you may be at least attempting to answer the questions. Or both may be wall paper.

I doubt it. It’s about consumption vs creation. Active vs passive.