Part of the problem is just about all the great stories have already been written.
I don't believe that one bit. I hear people say the same thing about music.
As long as people are alive, there will be great stories to tell. The real issue is that the movie industry is a business with a product to sell. There are numerous factors that influence this.
Over the decades, demographics have become increasingly important in determining what that product is. Films used to be much, much more catered to the adult market. Now, movies are not only directed at a younger demographic, but society has become more adolescent in its attitudes, generally, as well. Additionally, sequels, spin offs, TV show adaptations, etc. (i.e., non-original material) are much less risky than, say, adult dramas featuring star actors with giant price tags (successful dramas nowadays seem to sneak in under the radar with very little marketing. This strategy tends to offset costs. If the film doesn't make a big splash, it's not as much of a loss). They already have a built-in audience. On top of it all, technology has changed our lives enormously, especially in the area usually associated with matuity - sustained attention spans. This has given rise to the special effects spectaculars which have tend to shift the storytelling to the back seat.
reply
share