I would say that movies are essential to civilization. All of us have enjoyed watching comedies like The Simpsons, South Park, and Family Guy. Yes, these are fictional programs, but some people can still be influenced by them. They have stretched the boundaries of what is acceptable in television, and they are adored by a large number of people globally. But I believe that movies are so important to society because they give us a chance to consider our own lives as well as the lives of those who are different from us and can provide us with a fresh outlook on life.
The Impacts of Film on Society
The majority of movie buffs enjoy watching movies, but it may be difficult for them to explain why they’re also vital to society.
For the movie lover:
Movie fans may find it challenging to explain all the reasons why movies are an important form of art in depth. The statement “Movies are just fun to watch on the weekends” is insufficient. They are aware that watching movies is more than just a fun weekend activity. They feel a connection to the universe they’ve imagined in their thoughts and hearts.
For popular culture:
Today, film is regarded as one of America’s most well-liked creative forms and may even be its greatest cultural gift. It’s difficult to fathom life without motion pictures—those flitting, projected images that have come to symbolize our inner and outward realities by transmitting thoughts and emotions from one person or culture to another across distance and time.
For those working in the film industry:
Over the past century, the motion picture business has grown significantly in America and other major manufacturing hubs. For thousands of individuals engaged in manufacturing, screening, distribution, and other associated activities, they provide employment. By developing new marketplaces for essentials like popcorn kernels or the celluloid raw material used to make films on reels, they inadvertently generate hundreds, if not thousands, of employment. Movies also open up business possibilities for tourists (just think of Hollywood Boulevard) that help a variety of people, including hotels, restaurant owners, store owners, and more.
Entertainment and Pleasure
Some people only care about the amusement and joy it brings them. The majority of moviegoers attend in order to have fun. They desire a two-hour escape to another place where they can ignore their concerns and the strain of their jobs.
Regardless of the type of movie being watched, it provides viewers with a brief getaway from reality, which is one of the reasons why cinema is so significant as a form of art. Of course, a picture has the power to engross a crowd in ways that TV and other forms of media simply cannot. Although it may seem apparent, no other form of media can simultaneously activate all five senses like a film can.
It’s quite different from viewing TV or playing computer games by yourself at home when the sights and noises are combined with the feeling of being in a darkened theater with dozens (or even hundreds) of other similarly enthralled spectators.
Identification and Identity
Others may be drawn to movies because they relate to the characters or are enthralled by the skillful production values.
Movies are very popular, and for good cause. The only type of art that enables us to emotionally connect with the characters is film. We perceive them as genuine individuals dealing with real issues and difficulties. We discover our anxieties, wants, dreams, and objectives through them as we live vicariously through them.
As a result, movies have the power to alter people’s perspectives on social problems as well as how we see and sometimes even feel about ourselves.
Many of us use movies as an escape from the routine of daily living; they give us joy by making us laugh or weep (or both!). Others enjoy movies because they can relate to the characters or are captivated by the technical skill that makes them possible.
Others appreciate watching performers play fictional characters who are living their lives in heroic adventure tales or romantic comedies. Some people view movies as works of art.
Even More Effective Today
The motion picture camera and projection were created at the close of the 19th century. The 1890s saw the release of “silent movies,” the first motion images. Film and television quickly grew to dominate American popular culture.
Although film has altered history numerous times, it has never had the current level of influence.
Movies have always been a powerful tool for reflecting the society we live in. Films reveal who we are as people through the lives of the characters on screen—not just the ones we connect with, but all of them, portrayed by actors who captivate us with their performance—through comedies and dramas, through tales of love, optimism, victory, and disaster.
The greatest movies inspire us to reflect on who we are and how we can better our lives and society; they teach us how to show compassion and understanding for one another while promoting critical thought about how we got here and where we’re going.
Because they are mirrors that offer audiences from all walks of life glimpses into their own lives—or at least fictionalized versions of them—movies have always been an effective way to alter the world around you.
That is what makes them amusing, both for watchers at home (or at the movies) and for those working behind the scenes at each stage of this voyage we call life to make these cinematic marvels possible.
Tools for Social Change
Films about war can be instruments for societal change when they portray the real world with grim reality as opposed to stylized images of troops advancing into combat while carrying banners.
Film is a powerful tool that can be used to affect societal change, as you are aware.
In contrast to stylized representations of troops advancing into combat while brandishing banners, gritty reality in war films can have a significant impact on how audiences perceive the nature of war and peace. For instance, the film Saving Private Ryan used graphic special effects to portray the atrocities of World War II; the opening sequence featured the horrifying deaths of several characters, and many viewers were unable to watch it!
On the other hand, vintage movies frequently portrayed nationalistic sentiments regarding the conflict. For instance, John Wayne portrays an American fighter in Sands of Iwo Jima who wishes to protect his nation from adversaries. Viewers may be less likely to favor military conflict as a solution when they see accurate portrayals of battle on television or film. This is a great illustration of how pictures influence culture!
Broaden Horizons
Films can open audiences’ minds to new ideas and present them with a different perspective on society than what they are accustomed to.
They can provide insight into other people’s cultures and lifestyles by offering a distinct viewpoint on those in other societies. We can learn about cultures that are very distinct from our own through movies. The way that people view certain problems can also be altered by watching films. An Inconvenient Truth, for instance, has been used to inform audiences about climate change and inspire them to take action.
Art Form and Tool
Film serves as a vehicle for societal change and an art form in this manner. It can explore important societal problems or entertain while educating.
Films have the power to arouse our interest, teach us about unfamiliar cultures, provide us with fresh insights, or simply widen our horizons. We enjoy watching movies because they amuse us and challenge our preconceptions. They alter our society rather than just reflecting it.
Mirrors of Society
Movies reflect a culture in so many ways.
Because they represent culture, influence culture, and promote economic development, movies are vital to society. In many different ways, movies portray a society. Consider the themes of your best movies and how they have affected you. Film does this by reflecting society. For instance, a movie urging mercy won’t strike a chord with those who don’t pardon but will with those who do.
Movies also change culture
Affecting the thoughts, feelings, and actions of those who come into contact with them. For instance, watching a program about child abuse might inspire you to donate money or give your time to an organization that fights child abuse in your neighborhood. This is how movies alter a society.
Movies promote economic growth
Producing billions of dollars in annual income that is reinvested in the economy through taxation and other spending on products and services connected to film production, providing employment for thousands of people from all areas of life. (e.g., construction workers building a set).
