The Evolving Landscape of Cinema: A Shift in Quality and Content

In recent years, I have observed a considerable reduction in my frequency of movie-watching. From my perspective, the quality of films has experienced a notable decline over the last decade. There has been a discernible shift in focus, with an increasing emphasis on VFX effects and grandeur at the expense of compelling storytelling and well-crafted screenplays. This trend is not confined to a specific region; it is a global phenomenon, impacting not only Hollywood but also various Indian language film industries, resulting in a surge of storyless, hero-centric, and often illogical movies.

Movies once served as a great means of entertainment and relaxation, but they have relinquished their premier status in the world of entertainment. The proliferation of OTT platforms and handheld screens has undeniably added to the challenges faced by traditional cinema. However, I firmly believe that this is not the primary reason for the decline of movies from their zenith.

One of the significant factors contributing to this decline is the transformation of cinema from an artistic storytelling medium into a purely commercial venture. Filmmakers are increasingly viewing cinema as a business rather than an art form.

Furthermore, storytellers should possess a reservoir of compelling narratives and the ability to present them in a manner that captivates a wide audience. Unfortunately, a substantial portion of emerging directors seem to prioritize pleasing actors with extensive fan followings, often at the expense of coherent and meaningful storytelling. This trend frequently results in films laden with senseless action and absurd plots.

While there are undoubtedly pockets of excellence in contemporary cinema, those responsible for producing such movies often struggle to sustain their creative content over more than a release or two.

At times, I contemplated whether my waning interest in movies was merely a generational effect, a byproduct of growing older. I pondered whether the younger generation might have a distinct affinity for the type of movies that have become commonplace today. However, discussions with individuals of various age groups revealed a shared sentiment of dissatisfaction with the current state of cinema. 

Notably, the younger generation, despite having a more nuanced understanding of the glitzy world of movies, often views them purely as a source of entertainment, rather than the almost reverential hero-worship that was more prevalent in earlier generations. Paradoxically, the rise of social media sometimes paints the current generation as less appreciative of quality cinema, when in reality, the opposite holds true.

Additionally, the cinema-going experience has become an increasingly costly affair. These cumulative factors, including rising ticket prices and the allure of alternative entertainment options, have collectively relegated movies to a secondary role. Currently, the driving force in the world of entertainment is the realm of social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. It is my belief that this trend is poised to endure for a considerable period before a transformative element, such as AI-driven metaverse technology, potentially redirects the course of the entertainment industry in a new and unforeseen direction.

Cinema directors bear a profound responsibility toward their audience, as they play an instrumental role in shaping the culture of the next generation. Cinema, as a powerful medium, has been instrumental in introducing numerous iconic figures who have become idols to many young individuals in the modern era. Consequently, when conveying any message through movies, directors must be acutely aware of the profound implications their work may carry.

However, in the current landscape, movies are frequently evaluated based solely on their Return on Investment (ROI). As a result, a disheartening number of opportunistic and unscrupulous individuals view cinema merely as a vehicle for financial gain, thereby compromising its potential to reflect and disseminate culture and contribute to peace. This state of affairs is truly disheartening.

One of the most constructive courses of action we can take in the present circumstances is to refrain from investing our resources in such endeavors and distance ourselves from them. This collective decision would not only be a personal choice but also a contribution to the well-being of our younger generation in the long term. Personally, I have resolved not to expose my children to movies of this nature, opting instead for animated films that offer engaging storylines and valuable moral lessons. By doing so, we can steer the trajectory of our younger generation toward more enriching and enlightening forms of entertainment.