New Hollywood

Definition

New Hollywood refers to a period in American cinema during the late 1960s to the early 1980s, characterized by a shift in the creative control of filmmaking from studios to directors and writers. This era brought a wave of innovative storytelling and a more personal approach to filmmaking, as filmmakers began to explore complex themes, character-driven narratives, and experimental techniques that challenged traditional Hollywood norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Hollywood movement emerged as a response to the decline of the studio system and the rise of counterculture in America.
2. Filmmakers like Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, and Steven Spielberg became influential figures during this period, producing groundbreaking films that still resonate today.
3. This era was marked by the use of more authentic storytelling techniques, including anti-heroes and morally ambiguous characters, reflecting the complexities of modern society.
4. The success of films like 'Easy Rider' and 'The Godfather' demonstrated that audiences were ready for new narratives and more diverse perspectives in mainstream cinema.
5. The end of New Hollywood is often attributed to the return of big-budget blockbusters and franchises in the late 1970s, shifting focus back to commercial viability over artistic expression.

Review Questions

• How did New Hollywood influence the narrative structure and character development in films during its era?
  • New Hollywood significantly changed narrative structure by introducing more complex and layered storytelling. Filmmakers began to focus on character development over plot-driven narratives, often featuring anti-heroes and morally ambiguous characters. This shift allowed for deeper exploration of themes like identity, conflict, and societal issues, reflecting the changing cultural landscape of America during this time.
• In what ways did the rise of auteur theory during New Hollywood challenge traditional studio filmmaking practices?
  • The rise of auteur theory placed greater emphasis on the director's vision, suggesting that they are the primary creative force behind a film. This challenged traditional studio practices where producers often had significant control over a project. Directors gained more creative freedom to express their unique perspectives, leading to films that reflected personal themes and artistic experimentation rather than solely commercial interests.
• Evaluate the impact of New Hollywood on contemporary filmmaking and how its legacy is perceived in today's cinema landscape.
  • New Hollywood laid the groundwork for many aspects of contemporary filmmaking, influencing narrative styles, character complexity, and independent cinema's emergence. Its legacy is perceived as a crucial turning point where filmmakers prioritized personal storytelling and artistic expression. Today's directors often draw inspiration from this era's innovative techniques, while also facing challenges from blockbuster culture that emphasizes commercial success over artistic integrity.

Related terms

Auteur Theory: A film criticism concept that suggests the director is the primary creative force behind a film, shaping its artistic vision and style.

Blockbuster: A term used to describe films that achieve massive commercial success, often characterized by high budgets, large-scale productions, and extensive marketing campaigns.

Independent Cinema: Films produced outside of the traditional studio system, often with lower budgets and more creative freedom, allowing for diverse storytelling and innovative styles.