Topic: Movies as a global cultural form
Introduction:
The development of movies as a global cultural form and an essential component of human civilization.
Movies can enlighten, inspire, and delight viewers from a wide range of backgrounds since they are such
an effective storytelling tool. In addition, they have been a major influence on our social and political
discourse and have helped to shape our collective memory and cultural identity. In this academic essay,
we will investigate how films affect societies around the world, looking at how they foster social
cohesion, uphold cultural traditions, and spread knowledge of social and political issues. We will
examine the ways in which movies have shaped our culture and how they continue to do so.
The Evolution of Movies:
Since its inception in the late 19th century, movies have seen a remarkable transformation. Early films
lacked the sophistication and aesthetic worth we now identify with modern cinema since they were
crude and undeveloped. They were brief and quiet, lacked sound effects or conversation, and served
primarily as a novelty to amuse spectators. For instance, the Lumière brothers' brief (1895) film
"Workers Leaving the Lumière Factory" saw people leaving a factory. (Kraidy, 2002).
A more profound form of art has only recently started showing up in movies with the introduction of
sound and color. Sound in movies first appeared with the release of "The Jazz Singer," the first full-
length motion picture with synchronized sound, in 1927 (Voss S, 2023). Audio has given authors greater
options by allowing the use of conversation, music, and audio effects that could enhance the audience's
emotional experience. Audio was used in a huge epic like "Gone with the Wind" (1939) to provide the
audience with a sense of size and grandeur as well as to engross them in the drama and romance of the
narrative.
Another important turning point in the advancement of movies was the introduction of color in the
1930s. Directors were able to provide audiences a more vibrant and immersive visual experience thanks
to color cinema. For instance, "The Wizard of Oz" (1939) made use of Technicolor to build a colorful and
imaginative world that sparked viewers' imaginations (Roger Ebert, 1996).
Changes in society and technological advancements have also influenced how movies have developed.
The way movies are produced and delivered has changed dramatically with the development of digital
technologies in the twenty-first century. Directors can now create action sequences that are larger-than-
life and immersive worlds that were before unachievable thanks to computer-generated imagery (CGI),
which has expanded the possibilities for visual effects. Because of the emergence of streaming services
like Netflix and Amazon, which allow users to watch movies on any device and at any time, the old
methods of distributing movies have been disrupted (Jaramillo C, 2022).
Since they were first created in the late 19th century, movies have undergone substantial change.
Movies are now a more complex and immersive art form thanks to the addition of music, color, and
technological improvements. The influence of movies on society has grown along with their global
appeal, which has made them an essential component of popular culture everywhere.
Globalization of Movies:
Movies are now available to audiences worldwide thanks to the globalization of the film industry. Prior
to recently, domestic viewers were the primary target audience for movies, with international
distribution frequently being an afterthought. Films are becoming a worldwide commodity as a result of
the advent of globalization, and the creation and distribution of films must now take into account the
needs of other markets.
The development of social media and the internet is one of the most important forces influencing the
globalization of film. People now have access to movies from all over the world at any time on any
device thanks to streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. As a result, films from other
nations and areas have become more well-known, contributing to the development of a global culture
that is borderless. As an illustration, the 2019 Korean film "Parasite" received widespread praise and
earned numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Picture, making it the first movie
that wasn't in the English language to get the prestigious honor (Stephanov R, 2022).
The globalization of cinema has also resulted in the emergence of a global film culture. Movies have
evolved into an essential part of popular culture globally since audiences have access to films from
numerous countries and regions. New filming aesthetics and trends have consequently arisen,
influenced by many communities and customs. For instance, the Indian film industry's Bollywood, which
is renowned for blending drama, music, and dance, has had a big impact on the film industry
(Pillania, n.d.)
.
Also, actors and filmmakers now have more choices thanks to the internationalization of the film
industry. Movies are now produced and distributed on a global scale, opening up new markets for
producers and providing performers with the opportunity to showcase their talents to a global
audience. Artists like Priyanka Chopra and Irrfan Khan, for example, have successfully transitioned from
the Indian film industry to Hollywood and received plaudits for their parts in the movies "Quantico" and
"Life of Pi," respectively, from critics all over the world (ScholarWorks et al., 2018).
As a consequence of globalization, movies have altered the film industry and evolved into a cultural
form that is available to everyone worldwide. The growth of social media and the internet has had a
significant impact on this tendency since they have made it feasible for people to see films from across
the world and have fostered a global cinema culture that knows no borders. The globalization of film has
given actors and filmmakers new chances, leading to the emergence of new filmmaking trends and
styles that highlight other cultures and traditions (Olson, n.d.).
Impact of Movies on Global Culture:
Unquestionably, movies have an impact on culture around the world. Movies are a potent tool for
influencing our worldview and have been instrumental in the formation of our social and political
beliefs.
We can better understand other cultures and societies thanks to the influence of movies on world
culture. Through movies, we are able to experience many cultures and traditions in a way that is not
feasible with other types of media. For instance, the 2008 film "Slumdog Millionaire" offered a glimpse
into the life of those living in slums in Bombay, India, enabling viewers everywhere to comprehend the
difficulties experienced by those residing in poverty in that region of the world (Duncan R, 2011).
The formation of our social and political beliefs has also been greatly influenced by movies. Movies have
the ability to contradict our preconceptions and assumptions while also encouraging us to reconsider
how we perceive the world. For instance, the 1993 film "Philadelphia" questioned the prejudices that
were prevalent against those who had HIV/AIDS, which enhanced public awareness and comprehension
of the condition (Gordon E, 2013).
Moreover, movies have contributed to the development of a universal visual language that is accessible
to people of all cultural backgrounds. This has aided in removing barriers between various societies and
cultures, fostering an increased understanding and respect for them. For instance, "Crouching Tiger,
Hidden Dragon" (2000) inspired viewers all around the world to study more about Chinese culture and
traditions by showcasing the beauty and complexity of Chinese martial arts (Wu, 2002).
The fashion and beauty industries have also been significantly impacted by movies. Movies have served
as an inspiration for fashion designers and have influenced how we view what is deemed to be attractive
and in style. For instance, Audrey Hepburn's famous black dress from the 1961 film "Breakfast at
Tiffany's" continues to be a fashion standard, inspiring many copies and interpretations (Yipu, n.d.).
Movies have had a significant influence on the formation of our social and political beliefs as well as how
we perceive other cultures and societies globally. They have influenced worldwide fashion and beauty
trends and contributed to the development of an international visual language that fosters awareness
and understanding of many cultures. Without a question, the influence of movies on world culture will
continue to influence our planet for years to come.
The Role of Hollywood:
Hollywood is essential if movies are to be more widely accessible. Movies have gained enormous
popularity all around the world, in large part because of the American film industry, which is centered in
Hollywood. Hollywood production values and their propensity for mass appeal make them popular with
audiences from all walks of life.
A global culture that is based on American ideals and values has been significantly influenced by
Hollywood. The reason for this is because many Hollywood films are made with an American audience in
mind and frequently feature aspects of American society. For instance, the "American Dream" continues
to be a common concept because to various Hollywood movies that show the United States as a shining
example of democracy and freedom (Maisuwong, n.d.).
Hollywood has, however, also come under fire for endorsing a limited perspective of the world as well as
for maintaining prejudices and stereotypes. Hollywood films frequently stereotype and reinforce biases
by depicting people from other cultures and geographic locations as strange or foreign. For instance, the
fetishization of Asian cultures and the objectification of Asian people have been facilitated by Hollywood
films that feature exotic and enigmatic Asian characters (Wyman H, 2020).
Notwithstanding these complaints, Hollywood has made major contributions to the promotion of
inclusion and diversity in films. More roles have been granted to actors from disadvantaged areas in
recent years as there has been a movement for greater diversity in Hollywood. Consider the largely
Black cast and crew of the 2018 film "Black Panther," which broke new ground in terms of
representation in Hollywood (Black Panther (2018) A Level Media Studies Fact Sheet, n.d.) .
Important political and social issues have been brought to public attention in large part thanks to
Hollywood. Hollywood films have addressed difficult social and political issues ranging from racism and
prejudice to environmental harm and climate change. For instance, the 2017 movie "Get Out"
functioned as a critique of racial dynamics in the US and prompted vital talks about racism and prejudice
(Hatchett, n.d.).
Hollywood has significantly contributed to the globalization of cinema by promoting American cultural
ideals and standards abroad. Hollywood has faced criticism for perpetuating prejudice and stereotypes,
but it has also played a crucial role in improving diversity and inclusion as well as addressing important
social and political issues. Hollywood has thus played, and will continue to play, a complicated and
varied role in the globalization of the film industry.
The Rise of Independent Cinema:
Throughout the past few decades, independent cinema, usually referred to as indie cinema, has grown
in popularity in the film business. Independent filmmakers have produced movies that offer a distinct
perspective on the world while opposing the prevalent narratives depicted in mainstream Hollywood
filmmaking, typically with low funding and resources.
Independent cinema places a strong emphasis on originality and artistic expression. Independent
filmmakers are free to explore subjects and concepts that would be deemed too hazardous or
unconventional for mainstream cinema since they are not bound by the demands of large studios or
financial interests (Erickson, 2011). Independent filmmakers are now able to present stories that are
more varied, intricate, and subtle than those found in mainstream cinema thanks to their creative
freedom.
Barry Jenkins' coming-of-age drama "Moonlight," for illustration, depicts the experiences of a young,
Black guy growing up in Miami. (Tallerico B, 2016)
. The movie challenges the typical representation of
Black men in Hollywood films and was filmed on a minimal investment with a cast and staff which is
predominately Black. The movie was widely acclaimed and garnered numerous accolades, including Best
Picture at the 2017 Academy Awards.
Director Bong Joon-films ho's are another example of independent filmmaking, and they have won
praise from all around the world for their distinctive fusion of genre-bending storytelling and social
criticism. Becoming the first Korean movie to achieve so, Bong's "Parasite" took home the Palme d'Or at
the 2019 Cannes Film Festival. The movie has received accolades for its examination of class inequality
and the negative side of capitalism. It is the story of an impoverished family who plots to work for a
wealthy family (Seo B, 2019).
The globalization of movies has also been greatly helped by independent film. Independent filmmakers
can now reach audiences worldwide through internet platforms and online streaming thanks to
technological advancements (Erickson, 2011). Audiences are exposed to narratives and points of view
from all over the world, producing a more diverse and inclusive global culture.
Independent cinema has become a significant player in the film business, challenging the prevailing
narratives found in mainstream Hollywood productions and providing a more varied and nuanced view
of the world. Since audiences are exposed to tales and viewpoints from various regions of the world
through independent cinema, a more inclusive and diverse global culture has been cultivated.
The Future of Movies as a Global Cultural Form:
As technological progresses and the movie industry keeps evolving, the future of movies as a global
cultural form is unquestionably bright. The rise of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime,
and Hulu in recent years represents one of the most significant developments, enabling individuals to
access movies from all over the world (Sher S, 2022). Also, as virtual reality technology advances, it
enables viewers to appreciate movies in fresh and immersive approaches.
These technical developments may also contribute to a more integrated world culture, which is a
potential advantage. People from other cultures will learn more about one another's perspectives and
cultures as they watch and debate movies. More empathy and understanding amongst citizens of other
nations and areas may result from this, ultimately promoting world peace and harmony.
To guarantee that movies remain as strong instrument for promoting cross-cultural understanding,
there are, however, issues that also need to be resolved. The demand for more diversity and
representation in the film business is one of the most urgent problems. Hollywood's long-standing
predominance of white, male filmmakers has resulted in a dearth of diversity in both the tales told and
the people who express them (Harwell D, 2016).
Fortunately, independent and worldwide filmmakers are overturning this paradigm by producing movies
that present a more varied and complex view of the world. For illustration, Bong Joon-2020 ho's South
Korean film "Parasite," which smashed down barriers and won four Oscars, including Best Picture, is an
example of how films from various cultures have the ability to be recognized and influential on a global
scale (Seo B, 2019).
The future of movies as a global cultural form is both filled with promise and burdened with challenges.
Movies will be more commonly available than ever owing to technological advancements, but the
business still needs to do more to diversify and represent its audience. In the end, films have the
potential to be a strong force for cross-cultural interchange, contributing to the creation of a more
connected and peaceful world.
Conclusion:
This essay has explored the impact of movies as a type of global culture, including their historical
development, globalization, the role of Hollywood, the rise of independent film, and its promises for the
future. Movies have ingrained themselves into popular culture all across the world, starting with the
early days of silent cinema and growing into a multi-billion-dollar industry today.
Humans have improved our comprehension of various cultures and societies owing to movies. For
instance, the Bollywood film business in India has strongly affected both the Indian and international
entertainment companies. Bollywood films are recognized for its unique fusion of music, dance, and
drama and frequently discuss themes of love, family, and patriotism. These films have helped in
removing boundaries between various nations and cultures and in expanding the audience for Indian
cinema on a worldwide scale.
Furthermore, cinema have been crucial in the formation of our social and political beliefs. Movies like
Black Panther and Crazy Rich Asians, for contrast, have paved the road for wider range and
representation in the film business by defying Hollywood's standard perspective of what a blockbuster
movie should look like (Stephanov R, 2022). The prominence of these movies has highlighted the
yearning for even more diverse perspectives and opinions in movies.
In conclusion, cinemas will always be a crucial component of our worldwide cultural form. Movies will
become even more available to people all across the world as technology progresses. To guarantee that
movies continue to be an international cultural form that reflects the richness of our globe, it is essential
to address the issues impacting the film industry, such as the need for greater diversity and
representation. In the end, movies have the ability to bring individuals from many countries and cultures
together by establishing a universal visual language.
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