FILM: AN INTEREST, AN INSPIRATION
BY JAMES MA
People have long enjoyed film since the early days
of its creation. Whether for entertainment,
socializing, or gaining new insights, movies may
bring a sense of satisfaction every time they are
watched. The year 2016 has been a successful year
for new movies, as there are certainly movies that
have motivated us, inspired us, drove us to look at
things differently. Whatever effect it has on us, film
continues to be an interest among many people
of this generation. However, sometimes a film is
not completely understood if mindlessly sat
through. This is where movie critique comes to
play; films need to be analyzed and studied upon
so that their messages are brought to light and
their legacies are remembered. terms of box office. 2016 also marks a sharp turn in
the means of watching movies. As we can all see,
DVDs and movie theaters are constantly being
trampled down while online streaming and movie
downloading have skyrocketed. An estimated 57%
of Americans say that they prefer the small screen
to be more enjoyable, while only 36% prefer taking
on a large-screen experience.
According to Aidan Lupori, a sophomore at
Shanghai Livingston American School (SLAS) and
a fervent film enthusiast, “A good movie needs a
good plot, message, and acting. It also has to be
unique in a way that drives interest.” However,
Aidan does not appreciate all films. He also added,
“I think most movies from 2016 are pretty much
garbage.” The year 2016 has been a monetarily successful year
for movies, a medium of entertainment that has
gained much popularity for learning, inspiration
and entertainment. From DVDs to Netflix, movie-
watching has also changed as a form of
entertainment. Additionally, a “good movie” has
continued to change in meaning. From the classic
greats “Citizen Kane” and “Once Upon A Time In
The West” to the modern-day extravaganza
“Suicide Squad,” all movies have captivated
people’s attention for different reasons. However,
the obscure meaning of a “good movie” will
continue to change as do people’s creativity,
imagination, and desire.
The year 2016 has been a year of blockbuster
movies. The most popular ones such as “Rogue
One,” “Passengers,” “La La Land,” “Dangal,” and
“The Neon Demon” have captivated some, while
disappointed others. Regardless of differences,
these movies have had tremendous success in
According to Jay Wesolek, the guidance counselor
at SLAS, people go to the movie theater less often
not only because it is more expensive and
inconvenient, but also because people see
watching movies at home as more comfortable,
and may very well serve as a family-bonding time.
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