Do Movies Still Matter As Much As They Once Did?

Director Steven Soderbergh, in his recent statements, raises a valid question about the current state of movies. While his sentiment suggests a decline in the cultural significance of movies, it is a nuanced issue when we consider the evolving landscape of storytelling and its dissemination through various platforms.

Low-Quality Dramas on Television

It is true that the production of low-budget dramas can often be achieved more cost-effectively through television channels like HBO and Showtime. The advent of streaming services and the rise of independent production are democratizing content creation, making it accessible to a broader audience at a lower cost. However, this does not mean that the art of cinema is losing its relevance. Rather, the market is accommodating different formats and scales of storytelling.

The Dominance of Blockbusters

While it's accurate to say that big blockbusters have the best chance of turning a profit, the reality is more complex. There is a growing market for niche and independent films that appeal to specific demographics. These films, though not blockbuster hits, can achieve critical acclaim and maintain a dedicated audience. The success of films like Parasite and Shoplifters in capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide is evidence that there is still a demand for meaningful stories that transcend mainstream entertainment.

Network TV and Film Education

In my years of working in the entertainment industry, both at studios and as a network TV producer, I have observed a significant trend in the educational realm. Good stories and what people dream are not just preserved in movies; they are also becoming a central focus in business. At a major film school in LA, I teach a screenwriting course, and increasingly, students from business backgrounds are auditing these classes. This influx of students from non-traditional backgrounds underscores the universal appeal of effective storytelling across various disciplines.

The Business of Storytelling

Engaging stories are no longer confined to the silver screen. In today's digital age, stories are monetized and distributed through blogs, videos, marketing materials, and other media. Businesses recognize the value of compelling narratives to engage customers and build loyalty. My recent book, Engaging Stories, which made the Amazon bestseller list, teaches the principles of storytelling that can be applied across various platforms. These principles have been successfully applied in creating marketing materials that captivate and inform audiences.

The Future of Storytelling

Looking ahead, the future of storytelling is likely to merge various forms and mediums. About five years ago, I worked on a project for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting that outlined the future of television, which included the integration of film structures and theories into television formats. The vision was to create more interactive and engaging stories that could thrive across multiple platforms.

The challenges lie in mastering the combination of different media to create a cohesive and compelling narrative experience. While there have been attempts to merge different story formats, many creators have yet to fully grasp how to effectively integrate these mediums. Once the industry understands how to properly blend these elements, we can expect a renaissance in storytelling that aligns seamlessly with the digital world.

If you are interested in learning more about effective storytelling and marketing, you might enjoy my upcoming book Mastering the Art of Interactive Stories. Contact me for a free copy of my earlier book, Engaging Stories, and get in touch at [contact information].