Film is Vital. Movie-Going is Vital. This is Why.
Opinion-Editorial
By Madison Moore-Lynch with Black Olive Media
Film is Vital. Movie-Going is Vital.
This is Why.
Film and movie-going are more important than you think.
We live in a society where artificial technology is becoming more and more capable, advancing rapidly, arguably faster than humans can adapt. According to Justice (2021), the “adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is increasing year after year.” In these moments, awareness is our most powerful tool. But how do we increase awareness during a time where people are so divided on their views of where to go from here? The answer may lie in the art of, well, art.
Films are commonly viewed as a source of entertainment; however, they also hold the power to transform perception. Think of a film you have watched in the past that constantly resurfaces in your mind. It is highly likely that this film resonates with you not solely because of its unique visuals and sound design, but also because of its underlying meaning — the message you were left with once the credits rolled. The latter is the most important aspect, the most powerful tool in teaching an important message and transforming perspectives. Film is a medium of art that creates a unique exchange, one where the individuals and perspectives behind the messaging indirectly interact with those in front of the screen. This cultural exchange transforms the way we all think — here’s how.
There are a plethora of films that have challenged society to delve deeper, to uncover hidden truths. One modern example of this is Blink Twice, a 2024 thriller directed by Zoë Kravitz. While the film is perhaps fiction in its characters and overall storyline, the underlying messaging is far from it. The film follows a young woman, invited to a billionaire’s private island. Days and nights go by, and strange events unfold over time. The film depicts the haunting truths that surround the elite, mega-famous, and people in positions of power. What it appears to be on the surface is far from reality.
The timing of this project speaks volumes, as its release proceeds the surfacing of arguably the most appalling and talked-about headline in recent celebrity news: the P. Diddy scandal. P. Diddy, also known as Sean Combs, is an American rapper whose long-term afterparties featuring numerous celebrities are currently under spotlight. His indictment includes accusations of sexual assault, abuse, and other unlawful misconduct. Recently found guilty of two of five charges, Diddy’s upcoming sentencing is scheduled for this Friday.
The film’s details highly resemble those alleged at Diddy’s parties: all-white clothing, secluded settings, invited guests, and extensive misconduct. While it remains unclear whether Blink Twice is a direct reflection of the haunting happenings that occurred throughout these parties, the similarities are difficult to ignore. It begs the question — did this film and its wide release urge individuals, both within and outside of Hollywood, to dig deeper? Did it speed up the process of uncovering the truth?
Many argue that the news is the best way to receive information. As someone writing a journalistic piece, one might assume I agree. I do and I don’t. As humans, we have this tendency to favor information “that reinforces pre-existing views while avoiding contradictory information” — a phenomenon referred to as selective perception theory (Forgette, 2018). With this in mind, it is fair to think that perhaps news should not be one’s sole method of information intake.
With films, whether you are a fan of the director’s previous work or not, it’s difficult to truly know what to expect. Film offers an opportunity to sit back, observe, view a potentially new perspective on a specific topic, and then take that information and craft your own informed opinion on the matter. It also provides a sense of community, serving as a place where these truths are revealed alongside individuals just like yourself. It is a unique way of showing people truths that they might not otherwise see.
How we operate in society is a direct reflection of our perspective on life — which is highly influenced by our experiences, knowledge learned, and surrounding environments. If we want an informed society, it is time to serve truths on a platter that is easier for society to digest. If we want an aware society, it is time to illuminate realities that are often hidden, what goes unseen. The goal is positive change, and it starts with increasing our understanding in perhaps a way most might not have considered.
