Today, Explained The movies are back*
Sep 4, 2020
Alyssa Wilkinson, a Vox film critic known for her keen insights into cinema, discusses the tumultuous state of the movie industry post-pandemic. She reflects on the nostalgia of theater experiences and the emotional connections that films foster. The conversation dives into how pandemic-related theater closures have reshaped summer blockbusters, pushing Hollywood toward big-budget franchises over original storytelling. Emerging digital platforms and the critical role of communal viewing experiences are also highlighted, alongside a hopeful look at innovation in upcoming films.
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Pandemic's Impact on Theaters
- Movie theaters shut down due to the pandemic, impacting film releases and the industry.
- Blockbusters were delayed due to the financial need for large audiences.
Films Adapting to Streaming
- Films adapted to the pandemic; some went straight to streaming.
- Examples include "American Pickle" on HBO Max and the indie film "Driveways."
The Future of At-Home Releases
- It's still unclear whether at-home movie releases are a sustainable alternative to theaters.
- "Trolls World Tour" success on digital platforms was likely circumstantial, due to parent's demand for new kids content, and doesn't signify the end of theaters.