Arguably the most significant shift following the introduction of motion films was a transition to narrative films - movies that told stories. From there on, films were able to more accurately reflect the human experience as depictions of reality were prominently featured. With the introduction of televisions in the home, motion pictures were cemented as an essential element of American life; the television became an “electronic hearth” for households. The significance of film cannot be understated; films allowed views to navigate the boundaries of their life experiences while considering, in a controlled way, the possibilities associated with expanding this boundary to connect with others’ experiences. Films represent universal themes of life that nearly all viewers can relate to in some manner.
The popularity surrounding television and films could not exist without attracting a competitive business market. Since major motion pictures are being backed by large companies, publicity, and high budgeting, these films dominate films that have fewer resources. As a result, major motion films often become the only mainstream movies promoted. This formulates the question: what happens to film concepts that may not be as profitable but are equally if not more important to promote?
Similarly, money has become a main aspect of motion pictures. From trailers before movies to commercials between television shows, audiences are constantly bombarded by advertisements that disconnect them from the headspace of engaging in a film’s story and message. More recently, it seems that how much money a film has made in the box office attracts audiences more so than its ratings. Additionally, with subscription services and cable television, a new business model has been created in which companies gain from monthly subscription fees in addition to advertising profits. As a result, the business side of films seems to be taken into consideration by producers more so than how a film can be more accurate in relating to the human experience.
With large networks having direct control over what content can and can not be shown, there is a regulation of the content available to consumers. Film ratings and codes, while useful when appropriate, exist in part as limitations on what aspects of human life are able to be represented on screen. These limitations can include LGBT themes or the depiction of similar “controversial” subject matter. With motion pictures’ ability to profoundly influence an audience, it is dangerous that the content these audiences are exposed to can be manipulated and censored by larger networks for the sake of fulfilling an agenda of financial or alternative gains.
