For as long as I can remember, film has been a strong passion of mine, initially sparked by my keen curiosity in storytelling and gradually transforming into a deep love for the art. Watching films is not just about entertainment for me; it's like a religious gathering, where I immerse myself in the worlds created by talented directors and their visions. It's a two-hour journey where time and space fade away, leaving me with an enlightened experience to ponder for days.
However, I can't help but notice a concerning trend in filmmaking over the past decade. It seems that films have drifted away from being a form of artistic expression and have become more of a commodity, aiming to achieve maximum profit rather than genuine artistry.
The Age of Nostalgia and Its Impact
The 2010s witnessed a boom in nostalgia as millennials and adults sought to reminisce about better times amidst a crumbling world. Movie studios noticed this trend and capitalized on it, producing reboots, spin-offs, sequels, and franchises. Although Marvel and Game of Thrones were successful in this context, most other works from the era lack a lasting impact.
The latter half of the decade also brought a wave of political correctness, leading to a hesitance in exploring bold and realistic themes. As a result, originality in cinema has taken a backseat, with the industry finding comfort in safe and familiar content.
The Death of Originality
As a child, what made a film truly remarkable for me was the element of surprise - witnessing things I had never seen before. From dinosaurs roaming the Earth to toys coming to life, films of that time dared to be different and took creative risks.
However, today's landscape is different. We have entered an era of rehashing old material, reusing the same concepts, and relying heavily on nostalgia. The result is a decline in originality and a lack of risk-taking by production houses. The movies that once captured our imagination are now mere shadows of their former selves, devoid of the magic they once held.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite this decline in originality, there are still some bright spots in cinema. Our decade has popularized woke culture, where self-awareness is embraced in film and storytelling. Humor has taken a meta turn, breaking the fourth wall and connecting directly with the audience. Satire has evolved into a rare form of dark humor, which resonates deeply with our generation.
A Plea for Change
I implore all film enthusiasts to preserve this art form. Don't let it succumb entirely to commercialism. While there's no harm in enjoying mainstream films, take a chance on something new and underrated. Works like "Klaus," "Parasite," and "Jojo Rabbit" offer refreshing perspectives and deserve a viewing. Question what you believe you deserve from your time spent watching films. Remember, there is so much more to gain from the experience.
Lets keep the spirit of creativity alive in cinema and continue to appreciate the power of original storytelling. Only then can we ensure that cinema remains an art form, not just a commodity.