We’re filmmakers. So maybe we’re a little biased, but hey we want to make the case why film is arguably one of the most important aspects of pop culture. In fact, films themselves or the storytelling nature of films can make their way into everything we do; documentaries, commercials, nonprofit films, etc… And the reason is because the impact of film can be profound and multifaceted, influencing society in various ways:
1. Reflection of Culture and Society: Films often provide a reflection of the values, beliefs, and cultural norms of a society. When it comes to this, films provide insight into what is considered socially acceptable at a particular time. Filmmakers can use their work to reflect society by exploring complex moral dilemmas faced by individuals and society at large. These narratives provoke introspection and debate about ethical behavior and decision-making. In addition to reflecting reality, films can offer fantasies and escapism that reflect societal desires, dreams, and aspirations. They can inspire hope and imagination while addressing deeper longings.
2. Social Awareness and Change: Films also address important social issues such as discrimination, poverty, and human rights abuses, bringing them to the forefront of public awareness and inflicting conversations that can lead to societal change. For example, movies like “12 Years a Slave” and “Schindler’s List” shed light on historical atrocities and contribute to discussions about tolerance and justice. Films have the power to humanize complex topics, surfacing emotional depth. They tell stories from personal perspectives, making issues more relatable and understandable to the audience.
3. Political and Ideological influence: Film is important because these stories can reflect and reinforce prevailing political ideologies or challenge dominant narratives. They provide a platform for political commentary and activism. Documentaries like “An Inconvenient Truth” raise awareness about climate change, while fictional narratives like “The Hunger Games” provide insight on themes of political oppression and social resistance.
4. Cultural Preservation: One of the primary purposes of a film is to capture life’s stories, traditions, and historical events for future generations. They document the diversity of human experience, ensuring that stories are not forgotten over time. The cultural preservation aspect of film provides access to valuable cultural knowledge and heritage. Films can also serve as a historical record, giving an example of visual and audio documentation during specific moments in time. This gives its viewers a chance to learn about historical events, societal norms, and the evolution of communities, offering insights into the past for future study and reflection.
5. Cultural Trends and Fashion: Cultural and fashion trends are greatly influenced by iconic films like “Clueless” or “The Great Gatsby”. The fashion and lifestyle depicted in these movies shape the way people dress, speak, and behave. Films introduce audiences to memorable characters with distinct styles and wardrobes.
6. Language and Slang: Films often introduce new words, phrases, and slang into dialect. Memorable lines from movies can become part of everyday language and contribute to evolving linguistic trends. Think of phrases like “May the Force be with you” from Star Wars or “I’ll be back” from The Terminator that people often quote.
7. Identity and Representation: Representation matters in film, as it can shape the way different groups see themselves and how they are perceived by others. Films featuring diverse casts and authentic portrayals of underrepresented communities can have a profound impact on audience members who see themselves reflected on the screen. Identity and representation in film are essential for cultivating empathy, promoting social change, and celebrating the richness of human diversity. By amplifying diverse voices and experiences, films contribute to a more inclusive cultural landscape.
8. Empathy and Understanding: Watching films allows people to step into the shoes of others and gain insight into different life experiences. When getting a glimpse of someone else’s life, people tend to empathize, understand, and even identify with that person. By humanizing individuals from diverse backgrounds, filmmakers promote compassion for the characters’ struggles and triumphs. Film is a powerful medium for visually conveying emotions. Through facial expressions, dialogue, and body language, films evoke empathy by tapping into universal feelings such as love, loss, fear, and hope.
9. Artistic Expression: Film is a powerful medium for artistic expression, combining elements of storytelling, visual aesthetics, music, and performance. Filmmakers use their creativity to convey emotions, explore complex themes, and push the boundaries of cinematic artistry.
10. Education and Awareness: Films can educate and raise awareness about important social, political, and environmental issues. They have the power to spark conversations, challenge perspectives, and inspire change by shedding light on topics that may be overlooked or misunderstood.
Overall, the cultural impact of a film extends far beyond the screen, influencing attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions in society at large. Do you need a film, commercial or corporate storytelling? Reach out to our team and we’ll be glad to help you out.
About the Author
Alyssa Salkin | Intern
