Movies

What Makes a Movie Feel Like a Real Movie?

BBG News

Instead of asking “Is it any good?” when a buddy watches a film before me, now my opening query becomes “Does it seem like a genuine movie?

It’s clear to everyone what the issue is, although we might struggle to put it into words. The surge of streaming services has not only affected the cinema-going experience but also the intangible aspects that have historically distinguished a movie from other forms of entertainment. Over and over again, I hear friends or acquaintances expressing something like, “There’s so much content available for streaming now—I prefer to just stay at home.

Despite the perception that traditional theater experiences might be fading away, movies themselves continue to thrive. Both young and seasoned filmmakers remain eager to create them. What’s the allure that keeps us hooked? What distinguishes a film from mere ‘content’, deserving of such criticism as being a sham product? This is uncharted ground. However, examining recent cinematic releases, both those intended for theaters and streaming platforms, could provide some insights into what constitutes a movie today.

Is it necessary for a film to be completely new and unique? The movie “The Amateur,” starring Rami Malek as a subdued CIA operative seeking revenge for his wife’s death, is actually a remake of a 1981 Robert Littell thriller that has been adapted before. However, it exudes an alluring atmosphere that seems perfect for the big screen. The story unfolds in glamorous settings like London and Paris, and the direction exhibits a powerful and assured style. In the 1990s, we used to get complex action-thrillers like this one approximately eight or nine times per year; now, watching a film like “The Amateur” on the big screen can evoke a sense of something that has been lost. It’s as if we’ve rediscovered a forgotten indulgence.

A movie doesn’t always need a cinema release to evoke a true cinematic experience; it could be the dedication of the filmmakers or actors that makes it feel like a movie. This is often described as an “you know it when you see it” situation. Streaming platforms like Netflix have produced some exceptional films, such as Roma and Maestro. However, Netflix Original The Electric State, a retro-futuristic fantasy directed by the Russo Brothers, released in mid-March exclusively via streaming, is surprisingly lackluster despite its $300 million budget. Despite its visually appealing robot-centric special effects, it seems inadequate even for small screens. Yet, this doesn’t rule out the possibility of a streaming service delivering a cinematic experience. For instance, FX’s series Shogun demonstrates how television can offer the visual grandeur we typically associate with cinema. Even hardcore movie enthusiasts might find cinematic TV as a suitable alternative when movies fail to deliver.

What about movies that unexpectedly become popular sensations? Is it because they’re entertaining and well-crafted, or is there a deeper, more enigmatic explanation? For instance, Lawrence Lamont’s raucous buddy comedy, One of Them Days, featuring Keke Palmer and SZA as best friends scrambling to collect $1500 for rent money, premiered in January and remained in theaters for over two months before moving to Netflix in early April. The audience adored it, and even when watched alone, the film remains side-splittingly funny. Let’s attempt to dissect this phenomenon and discuss Patricia Riggen’s action-adventure, G20, produced by Amazon MGM Studios. Viola Davis portrays the U.S. President in this film, a war veteran compelled to reactivate her combat skills when crypto-terrorists infiltrate the G20 Summit in South Africa. Although the movie was exclusively released on streaming platforms from April 10, Amazon did screen it for small, exclusive audiences a few days prior to its release, which is how I saw it. Watching Davis, an exceptional actor rarely given the opportunity to let loose, smash a villain over the head with a frying pan? The audience erupted in cheers, and so did I. Occasionally, the collective energy of fellow viewers can elevate a work beyond its individual components.

Not all movies need to be grand or pricey productions. For instance, Steven Soderbergh recently debuted “Presence,” a subtly powerful supernatural thriller with a budget of approximately $2 million. While his subsequent release, the $50 million spy caper “Black Bag,” didn’t recoup its costs at the box office, this doesn’t diminish its quality. In today’s film industry, fortune can be as unpredictable as the gods themselves.

Despite the fact that the cinematic year is still in its infancy, “Sinners” by Ryan Coogler has already demonstrated what it means to be a truly captivating film. With impressive box office earnings following its release, it’s evident that this movie delivers on all fronts of great mainstream cinema. “Sinners” boasts stunning visuals, tackles weighty themes like race and community without being bogged down by them, and showcases both a renowned actor (Michael B. Jordan) and an exceptional newcomer (Miles Caton). The story revolves around a blues prodigy who encounters the devil, with added elements of vampires – brutal, captivating creatures of the night. Expect music, steamy romance, and tastefully presented violence that leaves you exhilarated. “Sinners” is a film that leaves an indelible impression, showcasing the power of a visionary director, a crew, and a cast. More importantly, it forges a unique connection between the filmmaker and the audience, making viewers feel like they are essential components in the cinematic experience – ingredient X. No movie is truly alive without its audience.

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2025-05-07 15:06

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