TikTok is this generations 70s new wave
I get it, this might sound crazy, but here's a thought: Filmmakers and studios might need to take a lesson from “influencers.” I just cringed a little saying that, but I think I'm onto something. TikTok and social media might just be the modern-day equivalent of the 70s New Wave, representing a complete rejection of established norms. You may be asking, "Why are you talking about old man stuff, and what is a '70s New Wave'?" Well, just as the way we consume social media has changed, so did cinema. This era challenged the overproduced, formulaic films of its time, championing gritty, raw, and genuine storytelling.
Fast-forward to today, where CGI blockbusters abound. Yet, there's a longing for authenticity, substance, and a rebellion against cinematic norms. Here, Gen Z and TikTok step into the spotlight. Gen Z has wholeheartedly embraced TikTok's raw, unpolished nature, turning it into a platform for authentic storytelling. It's more than just short videos; it's a content creation revolution. This shift may be a sign of a cinematic revolution to come.
The 70s New Wave was, in essence, doing the same thing: rejecting polished narratives in favour of authentic, rebellious tales. Gen Z's embrace of TikTok's unvarnished storytelling mirrors this movement's spirit. It demonstrates that cinema remains a potent catalyst for change, it might just need to swallow a bitter pill.
However, contemporary cinema finds itself at a crossroads. The industry has churned out an excess of mass-produced, predictable narratives, mirroring the overproduced content of the 1960s studio system. If it doesn't evolve and embrace the rebellious spirit of these cinematic revolutions, it may face a fate similar to the decline of the studio system of the past.
In essence, we must acknowledge that perhaps movie studios can learn a valuable lesson from online content creators. They should consider returning to their roots and veering away from excessively polished content. Today's audiences have grown discerning and are less willing to engage with overly polished social media content. This shift in audience preference might explain the diminishing interest in cinema.
So, whether you're a cinephile or just a fan of thought-provoking narratives, the 70s New Wave and Gen Z's TikTok revolution share a kindred spirit. They challenge norms and encourage us to embrace authenticity, unconventionality, and rebellion in modern cinema. It's high time for a fresh wave of storytelling that defies the status quo and dares to be distinct. Cinema must adapt, or risk repeating history's mistakes.