It hasn’t been awful for me, but I still prefer to wait and watch at home…I’m probably going to do a vid on top 10 reasons to “still go to the movies” as well…we’ll see what all ends up on that list 😉
I think boutique cinemas (like Everyman here in the UK) with dual seat sofa recliners, actual food brought to you.... Places like that will rode in popularity
$35 for a large drink and a popcorn! The gross profit on that is INSANE! I’m in the restaurant business and I know what that stuff cost…and trust me they are making money hand over fist on that mark up. I think they are trying hard to make up for lost revenue with concessions but that is eventually going to catch up with them as it will only be tolerated so long…
Really great video, my friend! I enjoyed the topic immensely. I've probably said this way too many times by now (😂😉), but I've had it in my mind for some time that streaming is probably the most significant factor in the decline overall not just in theater attendance, but in how society percieves movies in general now compared to 30-40 years ago. I think streaming devalued the arts and made movies more disposable in our culture overall, so that's going to naturally have an effect on theater attendance as well. And I think streaming also has created -- or at least contributed to - some of the other issues you mentioned, like short attention spans and the impatient, instant gratification culture. BTW totally agree with you about agenda films and lack of creativity. Agenda films are a major turn-off for me... and almost a guarantee I won't even watch a movie that I know upfront is an agenda film (let alone buy a ticket to see it in a theater, especially given the inflation over the last few years). These idiots in Hollywood need to get back to creating good stories with broad appeal that people actually want to see and characters that we care about/are invested in, and leave the cultural (and by extension, political) agendas at the door. So I agree that this is another big reason why people are checking out and not attending some movies from some studios... particularly in THIS time that we're living right now. Ultimately, I just want to be entertained, and I watch movies as a form of escapism from all the real-world stuff. Anyway, hope you're doing well Ken! And again, great job on the video. Loved it!
Thank you my brother for chiming in!! Damn…you took the words directly out of my mouth that perhaps I didn’t say elaborately enough in my vid!! Perfectly said! I just long so much for the days that movies were just “entertainment.” While I don’t mind “dissecting” a film trying to understand what the director’s intent was (which I love doing), I sure as hell don’t want a movie that is trying to tell me how to live, think, eat, sleep, and breath. Hollywood has forever influenced culture over time (for better or for worse) but I feel like some “world elitist” caught onto that at some point in the last 7 years or so and said….LET’S CRAMB IN DOWN THEIR THROATS!!! lol 😂 It’s too much!!!!! At some point…it’s brainwashing…and that is where I recognize it for what it is and tap out. Appreciate the thoughtful comment. I try and be a good human and I know we’re all flawed, but I don’t need Hollywood beating it down my throat. I love people and truly care about society…but I’ve leaned from a lot of research…the way you create positive change in the world is getting people to wske up to it on their own. It takes time… You can’t force it…(Power vs. Force is a GREAT BOOK BTW…) Anyway…I’m way rambling at this point. Love ya brother…Hope all is well…
I’m curious what movies in specific you consider “agenda” films? For example I believe in gun control but even I thought the movie Miss Sloane was too preachy. I could see someone who’s a 2nd Amendment fanatic not tolerating that film very well. However the film does have some value I wouldn’t want it banned, censored or not have films made about the topic. Are you talking about movies like that? I’m just trying to understand what you consider “agenda” films. The question is for both you & @theoriginalfuzz
@@LilEsBella I’ll do my best on this one… Personally I’m for the first amendment right here in the U.S. and that means censoring or banning nothing. Even if it opposes one’s point of view. And I know some people take it to the extreme with disgusting messages but when we begin to censor things we don’t like,it becomes a slippery slope. So for me, what I consider “Agenda’s” inside of films these days, it’s the use of “current social hot-button issues” being pulled into film. I’ll use the 2021 film “Don’t Look Up” as a more recent example. I actually liked the film, but didn’t enjoy the way they portrayed each policial side of Democrats Vs Republicans. They found a creative way to tell a story of “the end of the world” but they could have done it differently IMO without “labeling” each parties supporters. If you know the film or have seen it, you’ll understand what I mean. Then there is 2020’s Sacha Baron Cohen’s sequel to Borat titled “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm” that put politics right into the viewers faces. When asked on why he made the film, his response was “I Felt Democracy Was in Peril.” I think social and political topics will always weave their way into film. They have for decades and will likely continue. It’s just way more in your face these days as I personally feel Hollywood is infiltrated with largely one way of thinking (Liberal views) and they have no problem putting mostly those views into their films. I myself, as I think most Americans are, fit mostly in the middle of the spectrum. And when you see one side (or agenda) always being pushed it can simply make you want to “tune out.” I actually have very liberal life views. But I also have conservative business views. I’m a mixed bag as I think most in the U.S. or world are. We’re likely never going to get all of Humanity to “think one way.” And frankly, I don’t know if we ever would want to see that day. And while I am for the greater good of humanity and elevating our consciousness to a higher more accepting and loving place, that has to be done from reaching people’s awareness one at a time and when they are ready for it. It can never be forced on society and when tried from past examples, it usually doesn’t end well. All of that said - I do feel social norms and ways of always doing things should be challenged and Hollywood will always play a role there. It’s just they now aren’t very different than politicians…where they get their money to make films comes from their producers and where that money comes usually is out to paint a certain message. Not too different from lobbyists in the political world and what they expect their candidates to do if they win elections…follow their agendas. Lastly…not all movies are like what explain above. And that is what I think I’m longing for there days. Just some good movies without political or social commentary forced into it. I love humanity- and I’m not a member of any one party here in the states. I’ve been democrat and I’ve been republican…but I don’t fit into any one bucket and don’t want to be labeled as such. So I chose to just call myself “human” and for the greater good of hoping people will all wake up one day and realize that A LOT of this stuff…is simply smoke and mirrors IMO. It’s crap that keeps us fighting…and as long as we fight - “they” win. The powers that be I mean…😉
@@LilEsBella I'll just add a bit to Ken's very thoughtful response here... Well first off, nobody's talking about banning or censoring anything here. We're just talking about why people have soured on Hollywood in recent years and the decline in attendance at the theaters. In fact, I am adamantly against the banning and censorship mentality. But at the same time, many people don't like being lectured to and having cultural agendas shoved down their throats in their entertainment (especially when the people watching the content feel like they know a whole lot more about what's really going on in the world than the people making/producing the content). The way I see it, agenda films are movies that quite simply push cultural/political agendas and/or ideology as the primary focus, but they do so under the guise of something else (like with the more recent Star Wars and/or Marvel stuff)... and they do so at the expense of good story-telling and characters. Hollywood is welcome to keep pumping out that crap, but they just shouldn't be surprised when a movie bombs because it only appeals to a specific demographic or ideological bent. And they shouldn't be surprised when people decide they don't want to pay for those kind of movies anymore. So I just view it as a function of free market dynamics.
@@ungraduatedmedia Thanks for your kind, thoughtful & friendly response Ken, I appreciate & understand what you’re saying. I just disagree a little bit. 🤷🏻♀️😁 I don’t agree that Hollywood is full of liberals. There are many faith based films made in Hollywood all of the time, in all types of genres, that wouldn’t be possible if the studios were intent on making *only* liberal leaning films. They make films for Christian conservatives, in fact there are many conservatives in Hollywood. James Woods (who I find personally obnoxious but acknowledge he’s a good actor) was one of the producers behind Oppenheimer. The head of WB Discovery is a conservative, Zazlav I believe is his name. I can list all of the conservatives in Hollywood but I think you get it. Hollywood being full of liberals is a RW talking point that’s just not accurate. I once saw a trailer for a movie (on an actual horror movie DVD I had borrowed) & it looked like an interesting scary found footage movie like Cloverfield. I borrow the movie & my son warns me “I think that movie is some religious apocalypse type film are you sure you want the movie??” Question me not child, get me the movie! He was right. The movie is The Remaining (2014) it’s about the rapture. Everyone who has “sinned” gets raptured/snatched up by…idk what they were..demons? Idk. Premarital sex, snatched, abortion, snatched etc That to ME is an “agenda” film. I don’t have a problem with these type of films being made. They do have an audience & they should have films made for them. I sincerely believe that. However….I don’t like it when they sneak it into the horror category & make it seem like this is just another Cloverfield. No, it’s a religious film with things I don’t agree with. I thought I was getting a scary movie & instead I got the 700 Club. I don’t think Don’t Look Up did that. Leonardo DiCaprio is in it, he’s a liberal, he has a non profit that advocates in protecting the environment & educating the public about climate change, I knew it was going to have a liberal spin to it. I thought it was funny. I personally don’t mind satirical films on politics when it’s done well. I thought Don’t Look Up was satirical & took shots at everyone, some more than others but it wasn’t like the rapture film I described above. So for me there wasn’t an agenda it was DiCaprio bridging his beliefs with his acting. I personally don’t like Sasha Baron Cohen so I didn’t watch his last film but he’s known to make fun of politicians, in specific conservatives. It’s a known known so how can there be a hidden agenda? You know what you’re getting when you watch one of his films. So again that type of film has its audience, it may not include everyone & that’s ok. Let it exist for those who want to see it. So when I hear “we don’t want films with agendas” I hear “we don’t want films that include xyz made at all/we want those things removed from films completely” And to me that sounds like censorship. (Btw Criticism of a better way of progressing a plot, better writing etc is fine but asking that, for example, there not be any LGBTQ characters at all is asking to ban them from film) Asking that these things be removed from films because it bothers/annoys/offends one is the equivalent of censorship. For example there was a movie called The Hunt it was supposed to be released in 2021. The trailer comes out & conservative media loses its mind because they all thought the movie was about liberals hunting down & killing conservatives. Trump chimes in, next thing you know the studio pulls the movie. Eventually the movie is quietly released and….that movie is a satire on both parties but liberals are satirized more. They protested a movie before they watched it because they didn’t like the “agenda” but if they had watched it they might have like it. So the film didn’t get the wide release it deserved because people objected to the “agenda” of the film. There wasn’t one, there was just a storyline they didn’t love. As you said politics have always been in movies. I just watched Seven Days In May (1967) about a conservative US general who attempts a coup against the liberal president because he doesn’t agree with his politics. It’s a highly regarded film but some now may say it had an agenda. I say it just had a plot. These things aren’t new. Why is it more “problematic” now? Why do we call it an agenda now? I really don’t like that word it makes it seem like there’s this nefarious plot & there isn’t. The studios are trying to make stories that appeal & include everyone. I’ll admit, sometimes it works & sometimes it doesn’t. (Bodies Bodies Bodies & Bottoms were 2 movies made for Gen Z audiences. They were hilarious & satirical but older audiences & conservatives didn’t love them. Should Hollywood stop making those type of movies because older audiences & conservatives didn’t love them? Isn’t that censorship?) There are always going to be films that we all don’t agree with because they don’t mesh with our personal/political/ideological beliefs. I just don’t think saying take this out of the film is the way to go. It keeps studios from trying new things & that’s how we get more reboots & remakes because it’s “safe”. Sorry if this was too long but I didn’t just want to say I disagree & “agendas” is a weird talking point. I wanted to explain why I disagree. ✌🏽
Hey Ken, awesome content brother, so well done and quite a complete all round perspective! Loved your top 10 reasons, spot on, in fact #2 & #1 are quite loaded ones, will probably need separate videos to cover those alone. I haven't been to movie theatres for more than couple of decades now (and it's basically for all your 10 reasons combined more or less, but most prominent factor being your #5 😅 I started my Home Theatre journey since 2010 with my Onkyo 7.1 AV packaged setup, 50 inch LG (1080p) plasma TV and my first two BluRays purchases (Avatar and Pearl Harbor). I was just literally awestruck to experience the paradigm shift in PQ and AQ like never before (used to buy DVDs earlier), enchanted to get such quality right at the convenience of my home, that I got completely hooked and never had the urge to go visit movie theatres. In another words, the affordability of quality at such comfort made me lazy. Now that you've started it, I'm tempted to add couple of perspectives of mine which can be thought of as spin-offs to your #1 and #2 essentially. 1. (Creativity) Poor acting and actors: This is going to be controversial again, sorry, but I think there has been lack of good story, good story teller, and more importantly, the chosen cast crew being convincing in their roles to hold/glue the story from start to finish as one piece to hold your attention. The actors/cast in the latest movies look expression less, laid back, uninterested, tired of acting, as if they want to complete their job, get paid and go home kind, uninvolved. And that feeling carries out to us audience, to find no relationship between two characters where there ought to be a deep one. I don't think actors are to be blamed but the directors who probably due to infinite number of reasons chose a certain cast not really suited for the role because they don't know what emotions they are trying to show through their protagonists. They try to fill out the shortcomings with other purposefully distracting paraphernalia like CGI, special effects, sound techniques etc. for instant gratification. Some actors are so hyped that sometimes it feels the movie was created to project or prove how great that actor is rather than the character role being played by the actor, 'when the actor becomes greater than the acted' character in the film. 🤣(coined myself just now spontaneously 😉) 2. (Agenda) Too many similar competing 'template/formula based' options cause movies to lose charm of being something special. It's like mushrooming of 'copies' if one topic accidentally or for some other reason gained mass popularity. There is none that you can call special, that stands out or worth noticing or remembering, they look more or less the same, like clones in different outfits, like serving same dish with different exquisite names, different spices or flavours. It's hard to fool human mind for long. At some point of time, you will start realizing you have been subtly cheated. 3. (Don't know which one of yours this belongs to) They don't show 'older movies' in theaters anymore. Only the latest releases. For instance, I'd definitely want to rewatch Conan The Barbarian (1982) again in a theatre, or Gladiator (2000) (it is a radical difference in experience on big screen vs small screen, that 'cinematic magnificent effect' is missing at home even on 120 inch screen). Sorry for the huge text, ungraduating does demand it (lol) and I know my friend you won't mind it anyway 😉
Awesome thoughts and context my friend! Well spelled out and articulated! Yes, further elaboration is needed I think from me because there are “certain agendas” I do think should be focused on in Hollywood. Like maybe how we as a society should “rise above” all the “smoke and mirrors” issues the “world agenda” throws at us to keep us segregated and fighting. As you know, I’m for humanity waking up and seeing our greater potential but, to me, the world leaders (and some are in Hollywood influences) want to keep us thinking small and “in our box” so they put this stuff out there that really is “small potato’s” in the grand scheme of things. This gets people’s attention and gets them focused on smaller issues and the fighting / bickering continues. Not too different from social media… So yes, some agenda topics would be good to get behind but I don’t know if we’ll see that type if thinking because it might open up people’s eyes so much that they begin to see the world and the worlds powers so differently that it would cause a revolt! And those world powers that keep us shackled in our small ways of thinking then would no longer be needed and thus…would have no power over us… And that is probably why it won’t happen lol 😂 Lastly, to one of your points, here in the States they have been re-releasing some older films on their big anniversary’s. For example there is going to be a limited number of days that they are showing the original Terminator for its 40th anniversary later in August. But it will likely only be for a week and at select theaters. But I do think if they did more of that it would get people back into “going to the movies.”
@@ungraduatedmedia wondefully insightful and very deep reflections there from you my friend, I effortlessly 'hear' every bit of it and understand. You are truly awakened mind speaking of 'ungraduated' wisdom 🙏 Btw, I did notice you put some effort there (didn't you) to try to make your thumbnail more visually captivating 😉 and I really do feel appreciated, rather important (lol) and glad that you probably considered my suggestion. I just finished watching Gran Turismo 4K and what to say, great experience and outstanding AQ. (only gripe was I didn't have any beer in stock, so it was a dry and parched experience at the same time 😉
@@Sas-wk9lj- I ALWAYS value your input my friend - be it on my content or life in general. And I try and take action on it. While not all my thumbnails will probably strike attention grabs, I’m going to try 😉 And great to hear about Gran Turismo! Had you not suggested it, I don’t think I would have sought it out…so win/win! Lastly…keep that beer fridge stocked mate…it’s essential for an even better viewing experience 😉
@@ungraduatedmedia I think you'll like 'Need for Speed' (2014) movie ( released in Bluray and 3D). Even better story than Gran Turismo IMHO. The PQ snd sound are great as well. I restocked my fridge with Hoegaarden white beer 🍺 🍻 Cheers
Just went with my kids yesterday (their treat, Father's Day) and we saw Fall Guy, which was a piece of trash, but that is beside the point. Going with my kids was amazing. It's making time, it's being together, it's sharing an experience. I don't buy the "no money" argument. We'll spend 5 usd on a cup of coffee, we have never been richer (in the west ). I have four kids, going to the movies cost 100-120 USD. It's a lot of money, but it is, as everything else, a choice. We have so many choices and the new generation didn't grown up on going to the movies. For me, as a boy, loving stories, I spend most of my youth in the library of at the movies. Going to the movies is second nature. I don't like going out, but going to the movies, I don't talk to anyone (if I go alone), I just experience. I think people do not have the attention span, and I think we are getting so used to NOT have to do anything to be entertained. And it's not live. Live music is a growing industry, but you are right, people wait, sometimes they don't even have to wait, the release is simultaneously. We had a case in Denmark, where the largest cinema chain in Denmark refused to show Disney, cause they released simultaneously. Disney gave in the end. And yeah, the gender thing is fucking annoying. Men and Women are not the same. Which is what makes it interesting. I don't care who people love, but I fucking hate it, when women behave like men or vice versa. You want to see a film with strong female characters? Watch Romeo's Bleeding. Which is, by the way, written by a woman. Best female (action) characters ever. Violent, strong, weak, ugly, beautiful, sad - Excellent.
Wow - I’m going to have to check out “Romeo’s Bleeding.” I’ll say to you what I’ve been commenting to for others…I’m over politics…sooooooo very over it. It’s all two wings of the same bird and we just keep “recycling” our issues over time. I truly see it all for the smoke screen it is. Ignite people to argue, keep us thinking small, and thus keep the powers that be in power. It’s what they want and it’s that in which I stand against. Hey, live your life - live it how you want to live it and “be you.” Cool with all that. I also can recognize for a long period of time this was hard for some to do because society “didn’t accept it.” But I feel today we are living in the most “accepting culture” we’ve seen in modern history. We don’t need it continually put in our faces anymore. At least that is my POV. But anyway the powers that be (and that includes Hollywood elites) can “stir the pot” and keep our attention off the true matters of the world…well…they’re going to do it.
@@ungraduatedmedia I truly agree. The more you fear and hate, the easier you are to control. The government in Denmark is known in Denmark to be the "Catastrophe" government. It's easy to control people when they are scared. Right now it's WWIII and Nuclear war. And people are scared. I'm done with politics as well, but sometimes I get mad, that they think we are sheep, feeding them money and power. Romeo's Bleeding is one of my favourite films, but it's not for everyone. It's noir and it is very very dark. The main character, Gary Oldman at his finest, is morally corrupt. I guess you have to be one of those people who have been there yourself and now know that there's good (or at least the potential for good) in all people. Lena Olin was never better and Annabella Sciorra (who I have a huge crush on) is so absolutely amazing, in her portrayal as someone who loves someone who is morally corrupt. I love how strong the women are in this film (even Juliette Lewis) without beating the shit out of 12 body builders. They are really fine portraits of women, not Hollywood man-women, but real women. And Gary Oldman is an absolut piece of shit of a man, but still, he is charming and full of dreams and there is good in him. And all the other men in the movie are not stupid or bad. Hilary Henkin, the screenwriter, (Roadhouse, Wag the Dog) are not out to get men or has a political agenda, she just tells a story of man who, like a ball in a pinball machines, helplessly falls towards the black hole. Again, the film is not for everyone, but I think it is a work of art.
There are some exceptions but overall movies have lost their charm in my opinion. Hollywood exploits nostalgia and invests in safe bets. Boring! If the major studios took a chance on new ideas more often, cinema could have a chance. You have to excite people with must-see new material. To the point where it’s unmissable. Great Beavis & Butthead clip, I love that show. Great stuff Ken 👍👌😎
Agree with those few exceptions that are out there. Like “In a Violent Nature” that just came out… I hear it’s a different kind of take on a slasher film. I appreciate someone trying to make a uniquely different film and I’ll support it. I actually want to go see that one and very well may go and check it out. Thanks for the kind words my brother!
Ticket prices Over priced concession area Having to buy your seat ( some theaters do this) Low quality films poor promotions There's also Comcast Streaming services like Netflix Hulu Disney+ Paramount+ and many others
Your top 10..All good points. For me... 3. A movie both my wife and I will both like. Ya. 2. The ablilty to press pause. We are not 20 anymore and a 3 hour epic. Well might be too long. How about an intermission ! 1. Is the theater offering more than I have in my own theater.eg. d box imax , etc. A different or enhanced experience. Typically the movies I like are not enhanced experience wise. I like your point about pushing agendas. So true. I need a mute button for that and all the gambling commercials. Cheers
I consider the 2020s to be the great depression as far as movies go .....it started with Covid in 2020 but ive only been to 5 movies since theaters reopened and only 2 franchises ive seen the 3 Godzilla movies and the 2 Ghostbusters movies most others are woke garbage that i could care less about... i grew up in the 80s when every year memorial day weekend meant going to the movies to see biggest block buster of the year ...thats gone.. Ticket and concession prices are expensive but some theaters still offer afternoon showings for cheap prices, i was able to see Ghostbusters Frozen Empire for $5
You have a pretty good assessment I think with it all starting around the Covid era; maybe a bit before. As far as “woke garbage” I certainly know what you mean but I wouldn’t go as far as to say they all are woke garbage. But yes, they absolutely are trying to “tell us how to think and live.” And no matter what side of the aisle that comes from, I stand against it. Looking back at history, we can see how many different “regimes” have brainwashed their citizens through the media…and that includes propaganda in film. So it’s nothing new… I’m just over all of it from all sides. Let’s get back to letting authors right books about it and leave the films to be entertaining and enjoyed.
So far, my theater experience has been great, but for those rare times, it can definitely ruin the entire movie experience.
It hasn’t been awful for me, but I still prefer to wait and watch at home…I’m probably going to do a vid on top 10 reasons to “still go to the movies” as well…we’ll see what all ends up on that list 😉
I think boutique cinemas (like Everyman here in the UK) with dual seat sofa recliners, actual food brought to you.... Places like that will rode in popularity
I need to check one of those types of cinemas out. I have yet to experience one. That would certainly feel like a nice experience…
15$ movie tickets 20$ for popcorn drink large size .. 35$ Canadian per person insane
$35 for a large drink and a popcorn! The gross profit on that is INSANE! I’m in the restaurant business and I know what that stuff cost…and trust me they are making money hand over fist on that mark up.
I think they are trying hard to make up for lost revenue with concessions but that is eventually going to catch up with them as it will only be tolerated so long…
I really want to end all streaming and re open blockbuster and rent some movies
#BlastFromThePast! I think somewhere I saw that there is 1 blockbuster video store still open…I want to go there and rent something lol
Really great video, my friend! I enjoyed the topic immensely. I've probably said this way too many times by now (😂😉), but I've had it in my mind for some time that streaming is probably the most significant factor in the decline overall not just in theater attendance, but in how society percieves movies in general now compared to 30-40 years ago. I think streaming devalued the arts and made movies more disposable in our culture overall, so that's going to naturally have an effect on theater attendance as well. And I think streaming also has created -- or at least contributed to - some of the other issues you mentioned, like short attention spans and the impatient, instant gratification culture.
BTW totally agree with you about agenda films and lack of creativity. Agenda films are a major turn-off for me... and almost a guarantee I won't even watch a movie that I know upfront is an agenda film (let alone buy a ticket to see it in a theater, especially given the inflation over the last few years). These idiots in Hollywood need to get back to creating good stories with broad appeal that people actually want to see and characters that we care about/are invested in, and leave the cultural (and by extension, political) agendas at the door. So I agree that this is another big reason why people are checking out and not attending some movies from some studios... particularly in THIS time that we're living right now. Ultimately, I just want to be entertained, and I watch movies as a form of escapism from all the real-world stuff.
Anyway, hope you're doing well Ken! And again, great job on the video. Loved it!
Thank you my brother for chiming in!!
Damn…you took the words directly out of my mouth that perhaps I didn’t say elaborately enough in my vid!! Perfectly said!
I just long so much for the days that movies were just “entertainment.” While I don’t mind “dissecting” a film trying to understand what the director’s intent was (which I love doing), I sure as hell don’t want a movie that is trying to tell me how to live, think, eat, sleep, and breath.
Hollywood has forever influenced culture over time (for better or for worse) but I feel like some “world elitist” caught onto that at some point in the last 7 years or so and said….LET’S CRAMB IN DOWN THEIR THROATS!!! lol 😂
It’s too much!!!!!
At some point…it’s brainwashing…and that is where I recognize it for what it is and tap out.
Appreciate the thoughtful comment. I try and be a good human and I know we’re all flawed, but I don’t need Hollywood beating it down my throat. I love people and truly care about society…but I’ve leaned from a lot of research…the way you create positive change in the world is getting people to wske up to it on their own. It takes time…
You can’t force it…(Power vs. Force is a GREAT BOOK BTW…)
Anyway…I’m way rambling at this point.
Love ya brother…Hope all is well…
I’m curious what movies in specific you consider “agenda” films? For example I believe in gun control but even I thought the movie Miss Sloane was too preachy. I could see someone who’s a 2nd Amendment fanatic not tolerating that film very well. However the film does have some value I wouldn’t want it banned, censored or not have films made about the topic. Are you talking about movies like that? I’m just trying to understand what you consider “agenda” films. The question is for both you & @theoriginalfuzz
@@LilEsBella I’ll do my best on this one…
Personally I’m for the first amendment right here in the U.S. and that means censoring or banning nothing. Even if it opposes one’s point of view. And I know some people take it to the extreme with disgusting messages but when we begin to censor
things we don’t like,it becomes a slippery slope.
So for me, what I consider “Agenda’s” inside of films these days, it’s the use of “current social hot-button issues” being pulled into film. I’ll use the 2021 film “Don’t Look Up” as a more recent example. I actually liked the film, but didn’t enjoy the way they portrayed each policial side of Democrats Vs Republicans. They found a creative way to tell a story of “the end of the world” but they could have done it differently IMO without “labeling” each parties supporters. If you know the film or have seen it, you’ll understand what I mean.
Then there is 2020’s Sacha Baron Cohen’s sequel to Borat titled “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm” that put politics right into the viewers faces. When asked on why he made the film, his response was “I Felt Democracy Was in Peril.”
I think social and political topics will always weave their way into film. They have for decades and will likely continue. It’s just way more in your face these days as I personally feel Hollywood is infiltrated with largely one way of thinking (Liberal views) and they have no problem putting mostly those views into their films.
I myself, as I think most Americans are, fit mostly in the middle of the spectrum. And when you see one side (or agenda) always being pushed it can simply make you want to “tune out.”
I actually have very liberal life views. But I also have conservative business views. I’m a mixed bag as I think most in the U.S. or world are. We’re likely never going to get all of Humanity to “think one way.” And frankly, I don’t know if we ever would want to see that day.
And while I am for the greater good of humanity and elevating our consciousness to a higher more accepting and loving place, that has to be done from reaching people’s awareness one at a time and when they are ready for it. It can never be forced on society and when tried from past examples, it usually doesn’t end well.
All of that said - I do feel social norms and ways of always doing things should be challenged and Hollywood will always play a role there. It’s just they now aren’t very different than politicians…where they get their money to make films comes from their producers and where that money comes usually is out to paint a certain message. Not too different from lobbyists in the political world and what they expect their candidates to do if they win elections…follow their agendas.
Lastly…not all movies are like what explain above. And that is what I think I’m longing for there days. Just some good movies without political or social commentary forced into it.
I love humanity- and I’m not a member of any one party here in the states. I’ve been democrat and I’ve been republican…but I don’t fit into any one bucket and don’t want to be labeled as such. So I chose to just call myself “human” and for the greater good of hoping people will all wake up one day and realize that A LOT of this stuff…is simply smoke and mirrors IMO. It’s crap that keeps us fighting…and as long as we fight - “they” win. The powers that be I mean…😉
@@LilEsBella I'll just add a bit to Ken's very thoughtful response here... Well first off, nobody's talking about banning or censoring anything here. We're just talking about why people have soured on Hollywood in recent years and the decline in attendance at the theaters. In fact, I am adamantly against the banning and censorship mentality. But at the same time, many people don't like being lectured to and having cultural agendas shoved down their throats in their entertainment (especially when the people watching the content feel like they know a whole lot more about what's really going on in the world than the people making/producing the content). The way I see it, agenda films are movies that quite simply push cultural/political agendas and/or ideology as the primary focus, but they do so under the guise of something else (like with the more recent Star Wars and/or Marvel stuff)... and they do so at the expense of good story-telling and characters. Hollywood is welcome to keep pumping out that crap, but they just shouldn't be surprised when a movie bombs because it only appeals to a specific demographic or ideological bent. And they shouldn't be surprised when people decide they don't want to pay for those kind of movies anymore. So I just view it as a function of free market dynamics.
@@ungraduatedmedia Thanks for your kind, thoughtful & friendly response Ken, I appreciate & understand what you’re saying. I just disagree a little bit. 🤷🏻♀️😁
I don’t agree that Hollywood is full of liberals. There are many faith based films made in Hollywood all of the time, in all types of genres, that wouldn’t be possible if the studios were intent on making *only* liberal leaning films. They make films for Christian conservatives, in fact there are many conservatives in Hollywood. James Woods (who I find personally obnoxious but acknowledge he’s a good actor) was one of the producers behind Oppenheimer. The head of WB Discovery is a conservative, Zazlav I believe is his name. I can list all of the conservatives in Hollywood but I think you get it. Hollywood being full of liberals is a RW talking point that’s just not accurate.
I once saw a trailer for a movie (on an actual horror movie DVD I had borrowed) & it looked like an interesting scary found footage movie like Cloverfield. I borrow the movie & my son warns me “I think that movie is some religious apocalypse type film are you sure you want the movie??” Question me not child, get me the movie! He was right. The movie is The Remaining (2014) it’s about the rapture. Everyone who has “sinned” gets raptured/snatched up by…idk what they were..demons? Idk. Premarital sex, snatched, abortion, snatched etc
That to ME is an “agenda” film. I don’t have a problem with these type of films being made. They do have an audience & they should have films made for them. I sincerely believe that. However….I don’t like it when they sneak it into the horror category & make it seem like this is just another Cloverfield. No, it’s a religious film with things I don’t agree with. I thought I was getting a scary movie & instead I got the 700 Club.
I don’t think Don’t Look Up did that. Leonardo DiCaprio is in it, he’s a liberal, he has a non profit that advocates in protecting the environment & educating the public about climate change, I knew it was going to have a liberal spin to it. I thought it was funny. I personally don’t mind satirical films on politics when it’s done well. I thought Don’t Look Up was satirical & took shots at everyone, some more than others but it wasn’t like the rapture film I described above. So for me there wasn’t an agenda it was DiCaprio bridging his beliefs with his acting.
I personally don’t like Sasha Baron Cohen so I didn’t watch his last film but he’s known to make fun of politicians, in specific conservatives. It’s a known known so how can there be a hidden agenda? You know what you’re getting when you watch one of his films. So again that type of film has its audience, it may not include everyone & that’s ok. Let it exist for those who want to see it.
So when I hear “we don’t want films with agendas” I hear “we don’t want films that include xyz made at all/we want those things removed from films completely” And to me that sounds like censorship. (Btw Criticism of a better way of progressing a plot, better writing etc is fine but asking that, for example, there not be any LGBTQ characters at all is asking to ban them from film) Asking that these things be removed from films because it bothers/annoys/offends one is the equivalent of censorship.
For example there was a movie called The Hunt it was supposed to be released in 2021. The trailer comes out & conservative media loses its mind because they all thought the movie was about liberals hunting down & killing conservatives. Trump chimes in, next thing you know the studio pulls the movie. Eventually the movie is quietly released and….that movie is a satire on both parties but liberals are satirized more. They protested a movie before they watched it because they didn’t like the “agenda” but if they had watched it they might have like it. So the film didn’t get the wide release it deserved because people objected to the “agenda” of the film. There wasn’t one, there was just a storyline they didn’t love.
As you said politics have always been in movies. I just watched Seven Days In May (1967) about a conservative US general who attempts a coup against the liberal president because he doesn’t agree with his politics. It’s a highly regarded film but some now may say it had an agenda. I say it just had a plot. These things aren’t new. Why is it more “problematic” now?
Why do we call it an agenda now? I really don’t like that word it makes it seem like there’s this nefarious plot & there isn’t. The studios are trying to make stories that appeal & include everyone. I’ll admit, sometimes it works & sometimes it doesn’t. (Bodies Bodies Bodies & Bottoms were 2 movies made for Gen Z audiences. They were hilarious & satirical but older audiences & conservatives didn’t love them. Should Hollywood stop making those type of movies because older audiences & conservatives didn’t love them? Isn’t that censorship?)
There are always going to be films that we all don’t agree with because they don’t mesh with our personal/political/ideological beliefs. I just don’t think saying take this out of the film is the way to go. It keeps studios from trying new things & that’s how we get more reboots & remakes because it’s “safe”.
Sorry if this was too long but I didn’t just want to say I disagree & “agendas” is a weird talking point. I wanted to explain why I disagree. ✌🏽
Hey Ken, awesome content brother, so well done and quite a complete all round perspective! Loved your top 10 reasons, spot on, in fact #2 & #1 are quite loaded ones, will probably need separate videos to cover those alone.
I haven't been to movie theatres for more than couple of decades now (and it's basically for all your 10 reasons combined more or less, but most prominent factor being your #5 😅
I started my Home Theatre journey since 2010 with my Onkyo 7.1 AV packaged setup, 50 inch LG (1080p) plasma TV and my first two BluRays purchases (Avatar and Pearl Harbor). I was just literally awestruck to experience the paradigm shift in PQ and AQ like never before (used to buy DVDs earlier), enchanted to get such quality right at the convenience of my home, that I got completely hooked and never had the urge to go visit movie theatres. In another words, the affordability of quality at such comfort made me lazy.
Now that you've started it, I'm tempted to add couple of perspectives of mine which can be thought of as spin-offs to your #1 and #2 essentially.
1. (Creativity) Poor acting and actors: This is going to be controversial again, sorry, but I think there has been lack of good story, good story teller, and more importantly, the chosen cast crew being convincing in their roles to hold/glue the story from start to finish as one piece to hold your attention. The actors/cast in the latest movies look expression less, laid back, uninterested, tired of acting, as if they want to complete their job, get paid and go home kind, uninvolved. And that feeling carries out to us audience, to find no relationship between two characters where there ought to be a deep one. I don't think actors are to be blamed but the directors who probably due to infinite number of reasons chose a certain cast not really suited for the role because they don't know what emotions they are trying to show through their protagonists. They try to fill out the shortcomings with other purposefully distracting paraphernalia like CGI, special effects, sound techniques etc. for instant gratification. Some actors are so hyped that sometimes it feels the movie was created to project or prove how great that actor is rather than the character role being played by the actor, 'when the actor becomes greater than the acted' character in the film. 🤣(coined myself just now spontaneously 😉)
2. (Agenda) Too many similar competing 'template/formula based' options cause movies to lose charm of being something special. It's like mushrooming of 'copies' if one topic accidentally or for some other reason gained mass popularity. There is none that you can call special, that stands out or worth noticing or remembering, they look more or less the same, like clones in different outfits, like serving same dish with different exquisite names, different spices or flavours. It's hard to fool human mind for long. At some point of time, you will start realizing you have been subtly cheated.
3. (Don't know which one of yours this belongs to) They don't show 'older movies' in theaters anymore. Only the latest releases. For instance, I'd definitely want to rewatch Conan The Barbarian (1982) again in a theatre, or Gladiator (2000) (it is a radical difference in experience on big screen vs small screen, that 'cinematic magnificent effect' is missing at home even on 120 inch screen).
Sorry for the huge text, ungraduating does demand it (lol) and I know my friend you won't mind it anyway 😉
Awesome thoughts and context my friend! Well spelled out and articulated!
Yes, further elaboration is needed I think from me because there are “certain agendas” I do think should be focused on in Hollywood. Like maybe how we as a society should “rise above” all the “smoke and mirrors” issues the “world agenda” throws at us to keep us segregated and fighting. As you know, I’m for humanity waking up and seeing our greater potential but, to me, the world leaders (and some are in Hollywood influences) want to keep us thinking small and “in our box” so they put this stuff out there that really is “small potato’s” in the grand scheme of things.
This gets people’s attention and gets them focused on smaller issues and the fighting / bickering continues. Not too different from social media…
So yes, some agenda topics would be good to get behind but I don’t know if we’ll see that type if thinking because it might open up people’s eyes so much that they begin to see the world and the worlds powers so differently that it would cause a revolt! And those world powers that keep us shackled in our small ways of thinking then would no longer be needed and thus…would have no power over us…
And that is probably why it won’t happen lol 😂
Lastly, to one of your points, here in the States they have been re-releasing some older films on their big anniversary’s. For example there is going to be a limited number of days that they are showing the original Terminator for its 40th anniversary later in August. But it will likely only be for a week and at select theaters. But I do think if they did more of that it would get people back into “going to the movies.”
@@ungraduatedmedia wondefully insightful and very deep reflections there from you my friend, I effortlessly 'hear' every bit of it and understand. You are truly awakened mind speaking of 'ungraduated' wisdom 🙏
Btw, I did notice you put some effort there (didn't you) to try to make your thumbnail more visually captivating 😉 and I really do feel appreciated, rather important (lol) and glad that you probably considered my suggestion.
I just finished watching Gran Turismo 4K and what to say, great experience and outstanding AQ. (only gripe was I didn't have any beer in stock, so it was a dry and parched experience at the same time 😉
@@Sas-wk9lj- I ALWAYS value your input my friend - be it on my content or life in general. And I try and take action on it. While not all my thumbnails will probably strike attention grabs, I’m going to try 😉
And great to hear about Gran Turismo! Had you not suggested it, I don’t think I would have sought it out…so win/win!
Lastly…keep that beer fridge stocked mate…it’s essential for an even better viewing experience 😉
@@ungraduatedmedia I think you'll like 'Need for Speed' (2014) movie ( released in Bluray and 3D). Even better story than Gran Turismo IMHO. The PQ snd sound are great as well.
I restocked my fridge with Hoegaarden white beer 🍺 🍻 Cheers
@@Sas-wk9lj I’ll check it out - good beer selection for this time of year too 😉👍🏼 cheers!
Just went with my kids yesterday (their treat, Father's Day) and we saw Fall Guy, which was a piece of trash, but that is beside the point. Going with my kids was amazing. It's making time, it's being together, it's sharing an experience. I don't buy the "no money" argument. We'll spend 5 usd on a cup of coffee, we have never been richer (in the west ). I have four kids, going to the movies cost 100-120 USD. It's a lot of money, but it is, as everything else, a choice. We have so many choices and the new generation didn't grown up on going to the movies. For me, as a boy, loving stories, I spend most of my youth in the library of at the movies. Going to the movies is second nature. I don't like going out, but going to the movies, I don't talk to anyone (if I go alone), I just experience. I think people do not have the attention span, and I think we are getting so used to NOT have to do anything to be entertained. And it's not live. Live music is a growing industry, but you are right, people wait, sometimes they don't even have to wait, the release is simultaneously. We had a case in Denmark, where the largest cinema chain in Denmark refused to show Disney, cause they released simultaneously. Disney gave in the end. And yeah, the gender thing is fucking annoying. Men and Women are not the same. Which is what makes it interesting. I don't care who people love, but I fucking hate it, when women behave like men or vice versa. You want to see a film with strong female characters? Watch Romeo's Bleeding. Which is, by the way, written by a woman. Best female (action) characters ever. Violent, strong, weak, ugly, beautiful, sad - Excellent.
Wow - I’m going to have to check out “Romeo’s Bleeding.”
I’ll say to you what I’ve been commenting to for others…I’m over politics…sooooooo very over it. It’s all two wings of the same bird and we just keep “recycling” our issues over time. I truly see it all for the smoke screen it is. Ignite people to argue, keep us thinking small, and thus keep the powers that be in power. It’s what they want and it’s that in which I stand against.
Hey, live your life - live it how you want to live it and “be you.” Cool with all that. I also can recognize for a long period of time this was hard for some to do because society “didn’t accept it.” But I feel today we are living in the most “accepting culture” we’ve seen in modern history. We don’t need it continually put in our faces anymore. At least that is my POV.
But anyway the powers that be (and that includes Hollywood elites) can “stir the pot” and keep our attention off the true matters of the world…well…they’re going to do it.
@@ungraduatedmedia I truly agree. The more you fear and hate, the easier you are to control. The government in Denmark is known in Denmark to be the "Catastrophe" government. It's easy to control people when they are scared. Right now it's WWIII and Nuclear war. And people are scared. I'm done with politics as well, but sometimes I get mad, that they think we are sheep, feeding them money and power.
Romeo's Bleeding is one of my favourite films, but it's not for everyone. It's noir and it is very very dark. The main character, Gary Oldman at his finest, is morally corrupt. I guess you have to be one of those people who have been there yourself and now know that there's good (or at least the potential for good) in all people. Lena Olin was never better and Annabella Sciorra (who I have a huge crush on) is so absolutely amazing, in her portrayal as someone who loves someone who is morally corrupt. I love how strong the women are in this film (even Juliette Lewis) without beating the shit out of 12 body builders. They are really fine portraits of women, not Hollywood man-women, but real women. And Gary Oldman is an absolut piece of shit of a man, but still, he is charming and full of dreams and there is good in him. And all the other men in the movie are not stupid or bad. Hilary Henkin, the screenwriter, (Roadhouse, Wag the Dog) are not out to get men or has a political agenda, she just tells a story of man who, like a ball in a pinball machines, helplessly falls towards the black hole. Again, the film is not for everyone, but I think it is a work of art.
There are some exceptions but overall movies have lost their charm in my opinion. Hollywood exploits nostalgia and invests in safe bets. Boring! If the major studios took a chance on new ideas more often, cinema could have a chance. You have to excite people with must-see new material. To the point where it’s unmissable. Great Beavis & Butthead clip, I love that show. Great stuff Ken 👍👌😎
Agree with those few exceptions that are out there. Like “In a Violent Nature” that just came out…
I hear it’s a different kind of take on a slasher film. I appreciate someone trying to make a uniquely different film and I’ll support it.
I actually want to go see that one and very well may go and check it out.
Thanks for the kind words my brother!
Ticket prices
Over priced concession area
Having to buy your seat ( some theaters do this)
Low quality films
poor promotions
There's also
Comcast
Streaming services like
Netflix
Hulu
Disney+
Paramount+
and many others
Your top 10..All good points.
For me... 3. A movie both my wife and I will both like. Ya.
2. The ablilty to press pause. We are not 20 anymore and a 3 hour epic. Well might be too long. How about an intermission !
1. Is the theater offering more than I have in my own theater.eg. d box imax , etc. A different or enhanced experience. Typically the movies I like are not enhanced experience wise.
I like your point about pushing agendas. So true. I need a mute button for that and all the gambling commercials. Cheers
I consider the 2020s to be the great depression as far as movies go .....it started with Covid in 2020 but ive only been to 5 movies since theaters reopened and only 2 franchises ive seen the 3 Godzilla movies and the 2 Ghostbusters movies most others are woke garbage that i could care less about... i grew up in the 80s when every year memorial day weekend meant going to the movies to see biggest block buster of the year ...thats gone..
Ticket and concession prices are expensive but some theaters still offer afternoon showings for cheap prices, i was able to see Ghostbusters Frozen Empire for $5
You have a pretty good assessment I think with it all starting around the Covid era; maybe a bit before.
As far as “woke garbage” I certainly know what you mean but I wouldn’t go as far as to say they all are woke garbage. But yes, they absolutely are trying to “tell us how to think and live.” And no matter what side of the aisle that comes from, I stand against it.
Looking back at history, we can see how many different “regimes” have brainwashed their citizens through the media…and that includes propaganda in film. So it’s nothing new…
I’m just over all of it from all sides. Let’s get back to letting authors right books about it and leave the films to be entertaining and enjoyed.