Why You Need to Watch Movies: Exploring the Power of Cinema

In today's world, we often hear about the importance of reading books, staying informed through newspapers, or travelling to broaden our horizons. While these activities undoubtedly have their merits, I believe that watching movies is equally significant.

Just like science and its contributions to human evolution, art plays a vital role in shaping our society. And among the various forms of art, movies hold a special place. From the early days of silent films to the mesmerizing experiences of modern cinema, the evolution of movies has captivated audiences, transporting them to new realms of imagination and storytelling.

Films as the Ultimate Form of Storytelling:

Cinema has come a long way since its humble beginnings. It all started with the pioneering works of filmmakers such as the Lumière brothers and Georges Méliès, who used this new medium to capture stories and share them with the world. Méliès's groundbreaking film, "A Trip to the Moon" (1902), took audiences on an extraordinary adventure to outer space, demonstrating the power of storytelling and visual effects even in its early stages.

As time passed, cinema embraced various artistic movements that left an indelible mark on its history. German Expressionism emerged as a notable movement, producing visually striking and emotionally intense films like "Metropolis (1927)", known for its distorted sets and dramatic lighting. These films not only entertained but also pushed the boundaries of filmmaking as an art form, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

The era of silent films introduced us to legendary performers like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, whose physical comedy and masterful storytelling captivated the hearts of millions. In the absence of synchronized sound, filmmakers relied on visual techniques, such as facial expressions, body language, and intertitles, to convey stories. These films showcased the power of visual storytelling, immersing audiences in narratives that transcended language barriers.

The advent of sound in movies marked a significant turning point in the industry. A new era began with the release of "The Jazz Singer" (1927), the first feature-length film with synchronized dialogue. The incorporation of sound allowed filmmakers to enhance the storytelling experience, bringing characters to life through their voices, music, and immersive soundscapes. This breakthrough opened up endless possibilities, captivating audiences in new and engaging ways.

Technological advancements continued to shape the film industry, introducing colour films, widescreen formats, and the advent of IMAX cameras. These innovations revolutionized the visual experience, allowing filmmakers to create immersive and visually stunning worlds on the big screen. Films like "Gone with the Wind" to upcoming projects like "Oppenheimer," made with IMAX cameras, showcase the ever-expanding possibilities of storytelling through film.

As we reflect on the history of cinema, we can confidently say that there has never been a better time to be a film buff or a casual moviegoer. With over a century of filmmaking under our belts, we now have access to an extensive library of movies from different eras and genres. From silent classics to modern blockbusters, there is something for everyone to enjoy and explore.

While other art forms, such as books, paintings, and music, have their own merits, movies possess a unique advantage as the ultimate form of storytelling. Through the combination of visuals, sound, and the artist's vision, movies have the power to transport audiences to different worlds, evoke emotions, and engage them in a captivating narrative. Filmmakers utilize various techniques and tools to create an immersive experience that draws the audience into their stories, making it a truly captivating and entertaining medium.

Movies as Your Trusted Friend:

Movies are often regarded as the ultimate form of escapism, akin to having a trusted friend who can uplift your spirits when you're feeling down. They have the ability to make you laugh, cry, and transport you to different places, providing much-needed stress relief and allowing you to perform better once you're done watching. The impact, however, depends on the movie you choose. While a bad movie might not worsen your mood, it won't necessarily improve it either. Additionally, movies are excellent entertainment for hanging out with friends, family or a date night. Unlike art films or dramas that require intense focus, you can simply grab your popcorn and let the magic unfold on the screen with the talented artists behind the scenes. Feeling sad? Watch a Charlie Chaplin or Buster Keaton film for a good laugh. Had a stressful day at the office? Tune in to classics like "When Harry Met Sally" or "Sleepless in Seattle." Want to bond with loved ones? Grab tickets to a thrilling Steven Spielberg blockbuster or the latest Mission Impossible movie. The sheer variety of movies available ensures that there's something for everyone; movies are just like a friend you can always rely on.

The Transformative Power of Movies:

Movies have the power to transform lives in profound ways. While delving into an exhaustive exploration of how films have changed the world would take us all day, it's important to recognize that art, as mentioned in the earlier paragraphs, is an integral part of human evolution and culture. Paintings, books, and now films have played a pivotal role in shaping our collective consciousness. A famous quote says, "Life imitates art," and it holds true as artists draw inspiration from real-life moments to tell stories that resonate with us. Art, including films, fuels cultural innovation and serves as the most valuable exchange of ideas in human history.

In the modern era, films have emerged as the highest form of art that has the power to effect change. Many great films are adaptations of novels, and credit must be given to authors like H.G. Wells, J.R.R. Tolkien and many others behind some great books and novels, whose works have revolutionized storytelling. Moreover, films often combine elements from various art forms. For instance, movies like "Midnight in Paris" and "Pollock" draw inspiration from paintings and other artistic expressions. In today's world, films occupy a prominent place in the hierarchy of art forms that influence and transform society.

Consider the impact of movies on our daily lives. The dressing style we choose often takes cues from the actors we admire on the silver screen. From swimsuits to jeans, our fashion choices are influenced by the styles depicted in films. Films like "Rocky" have inspired countless individuals to pursue sports, while "Top Gun" ignited a desire in many men to join the Air Force or Navy. Similarly, movies such as "Apollo 13" and "The Right Stuff" have sparked interest in space programs, while "Philadelphia" raised awareness about HIV/AIDS and shattered stigmas surrounding the disease. "Schindler's List" brought the Holocaust to the forefront of public consciousness, encouraging people to delve deeper into this tragic history chapter. War movies vividly depict the costs of conflict, serving as reminders of the past and encouraging reflection on the present. These examples, among many others, demonstrate how films consistently shape society, culture, and individuals, provided they are executed brilliantly and resonate with audiences.

Movies possess the unique ability to inspire, motivate, and transform our perspective on life. Films like "The Pursuit of Happiness" and "The Shawshank Redemption" motivate us to strive for our goals and offer hope even in the face of adversity. Movies such as "Basketball Diaries" and "Requiem for a Dream" can compel us to break free from harmful habits, while films like "Wild" and "The Way" encourage us to take risks and step out of our comfort zones. Movies like "La La Land" whisper to us, urging us to follow our passions in our careers and lives. They shape our perspective, tastes, and attitudes and help us discover our true selves by taking us on journeys we may not have otherwise explored.

From individuals to society at large, movies possess the remarkable power to effect change. They can inspire, motivate, and even alter our worldview. Watching a well-crafted film can evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and ignite a spark within us to take action. Whether it's finding inspiration, reevaluating our choices, or seeking personal growth, movies serve as our teachers, mentors, and guides to the world beyond our own experiences. So, let's embrace the magic of cinema and embark on a journey that will forever transform us.

Movies as Teachers, Mentors, and Guides:

Movies serve as our teachers, mentors, and guides, offering invaluable insights into the world around us. While books and news can provide knowledge, the impact of movies is unparalleled. They have a unique ability to engage us, evoke emotions, and enable us to delve deeply into the lives of characters through the power of visual storytelling, sound, and camera angles.

When we watch movies, we not only gain knowledge but also experience the emotions and challenges faced by the characters. Films like "Schindler's List" and "Grave of the Fireflies" allow us to feel the tragedy and pain endured by the characters, teaching us important lessons about the cost of war. Movies such as "Into the Wild" and "Gravity" takes us on journeys where we explore the world and its wonders for a few hours. We can escape into the fictional "Harry Potter" and "Lord of the Rings" realms and immerse ourselves in a world of magic and adventure. "City of God" and "Capernaum" expose us to different struggles and life experiences in the world around us, while "The Last Samurai" and "Midnight in Paris" introduce us to the beauty of diverse places and cultures.

Moreover, movies offer profound insights into human emotions and relationships. Films like "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" and the "Before Sunrise" series provide valuable lessons about love and relationships. "The Shawshank Redemption" and "The Silent Voice" emphasize the importance of friendship. Movies such as "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" and "Silver Linings Playbook" shed light on mental health and its significance. Through films like "Tick, Tick... Boom!" and "Moneyball," we are inspired to pursue our passions and strive for our dreams.

Movies have a remarkable ability to teach us things that traditional education, books, and news may not. They offer a comprehensive and immersive learning experience, imparting knowledge and wisdom through captivating storytelling. Whether we find ourselves lost or in need of guidance, movies are there to lead us, offering insights, perspectives, and life lessons that shape our understanding of the world.

So, let movies be your trusted companions on the journey of exploration and discovery. They will not only entertain you but also enlighten you, broadening your horizons and enriching your understanding of life. Open your heart and mind to the transformative power of cinema, and let it guide you through the vast tapestry of human experiences.

Ending quote:

I'm gonna end this article with my favourite speech by Tom Hanks at the AFI ceremony for accepting the lifetime achievement award.

"Let's go to the movies I want to go to the movie I want to take you all to the movies, let's go and experience the the art of the cinema, so let's begin with "scream" of fear and we're gonna have it haunt us for the rest of our lives and then let's go see the "Great Escape" and spend our summer jump on our bikes just like Steve McQueen over barbed wire and then let's catch the "Seven Samurai" for some reason on PBS and and we'll feel like we speak Japanese because we could read the subtitles and hear the language at the same time and then let's lose sleep the night before we see "2001 a Space Odyssey" because we have this idea that's gonna change forever the way we look at films and then let's go see it four times in one year let's see "Woodstock" three times in one year and let's see "taxi driver" twice in one week let's see "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" just we can freeze there in mid popcorn and when the kids are old enough let's sit them together on the sofa and screen "city lights" in stagecoach in the best years of our lives and "on the waterfront" and "Midnight Cowboy" and "five Easy Pieces" in the last picture show and "Raging Bull" and "Schindler's List" so that they can understand how the human condition can be captured by this amalgam of light and sound and literature we call the cinema."