Instead of the Oscar-worthy original films, companies like Disney are reverting back to their previously produced movies. “The Little Mermaid,” the upcoming “Snow White” and “Star Wars” projects are being remade, rather than new ideas coming to the screen. At the box office, these films are topping the charts, raising the question of whether people prefer something they’re comfortable with or something that makes them think.  

While not all movies are remakes, there has also been a trend of franchise revivals, many over two decades after the original. “Indiana Jones,” “Top Gun” and “Avatar” are all older blockbuster movies that had recent additions to their sagas. 

“It’s all about original ideas, which can include previous works adapted in unique ways,” said Shea Miller, an employee at the local Regal Cinemas in the Old Mill District. 

Yet many of these revivals lack the spark that their originals had. The new “Star Wars” trilogy is clearly a copy of the originals. Rather than inventing new lore for fans to speculate over, they chose to draw villains and similar story arcs from the prequels and originals, destroying any character development that took over 30 years to establish. It was a weak ploy to draw in new, younger fans, and of course, bring in the big bucks. 

So what is causing this remake renaissance? Producers know what audiences already like, and instead of taking cinematic risks, they choose to go back and reimagine the comfort films everyone loves. And why not? It’s guaranteed money. There are only a few directors left who are willing to take that risk and put out never seen before ideas. 

Our precious indie filmmakers are being victimized, with massive production companies pulling them in, causing their cinematic individuality to be erased. Take Chloe Zao, for example. In 2020 she directed the film “Nomadland,” which won the Oscar for best picture. Fast forward one year later, and she’s directing “Eternals” for Marvel, which didn’t go over well with the critics.

On the other hand, director Greta Gerwig has remained true to her directing philosophy. Despite her most recent film “Barbie” being the top movie of 2023, the film clearly matches her directoral style. Her way of storytelling and colorway remained persistent from her past movies like “Little Women” and “Ladybird.”

It isn’t individual directors who are at fault though, it’s the large production companies who only care about money. They continue to put minimum effort into plot and screenwriting, expecting to make millions at the box office, and it works. 

With the rise of AI, the fate of movie originality is at risk. As this technology advances further and further, AI screenwriting is likely to appear in blockbuster films. 

Much like the Beatles with music, the box office needs filmmakers who break the standards and change how movies are perceived. If the same themes are being presented, no ideas are ever being challenged. People who revert to cinema to experience the unexperienced are being left with nothing as this pattern continues.

The post Has Hollywood Given Up? appeared first on Obsidian News | Oregon Youth Voices.

Film Club meetings usually consist of showing a film, a discussion and then ending the night with a trivia competition. The movies shown range from horror to comedy, coming-of-age to romantic comedies. There is something for everyone. 

In a world of effortlessly made blockbusters, Film Club concentrates on smaller indie films—the kind of movie that changes the way you view life. The kind of movie that you finish watching, and become obsessed with afterwards because it was just that good. Whether it be the plot, cinematography or themes, it sticks with you. That’s Film Club’s goal every single time. 

“When I watched ‘La La Land’ for the first time, I really began to appreciate cinematography and symbolism in movies. It gave me a feeling I’ll never forget,” said Azure Neubauer, a Film Club member. “Then I found Film Club and that was the place to achieve that feeling again and again.”

The club’s president, 16-year-old Madelyn Walsh, was appointed at the beginning of summer. 

“Betsy Stonich [former Film Club president] asked me to be the next Film Club president, and at first I was shocked, but then I took the opportunity with full stride,” said Walsh. “Film Club to me is not only a fun and safe space to express your interest in film, but it’s also a place to make friends and get that spark of passion for film back.”

The Tin Pan Theater sponsors Film Club and tickets are free, but supporting the concession stand is always encouraged.

“I like that Film Club gives me a community to share my interest in films with others,” said Neubauer.

Film Club provides a unique opportunity for students to become more involved in movies. Members watch movies they might have never watched on their own, therefore expanding their film palette. The discussions go beyond surface level observations, and members expand on the themes of the film. Film Club members explore the true meaning behind the film and share their thoughts with others in the group discussion. It helps adapt analytical skills while also allowing members to view the creativity of the movie.

The future of Film Club is promising. Walsh intends to continue the monthly movie-watching meetings, but also shift the focus of Film Club to the production process and the art of cinematography, encouraging young filmmakers to join as well. 

“I thought it would be super rad activity to work on a short film as a club,” said Walsh. 

Even though the current members of Film Club, it lacks the members it needs to fully succeed. Any middle-schooler or high-schooler in Central Oregon is welcome to join. Walsh is trying to extend her advertising to social media, specifically Instagram (@bendstudentfilmclub), to hopefully recruit more film-enthusiasts to attend meetings. She is also aiming to hold the meetings more frequently.

“I saw the ad on Instagram, and I thought it looked fun, so I’m here,” said club member Andres Bahns.

Although Film Club’s numbers are small, it is a thriving community of aspiring film enthusiasts that puts emphasis on the importance of entertainment.

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