New Hollywood

Definition

New Hollywood refers to a transformative era in American cinema that began in the late 1960s and continued into the 1980s, marked by a shift towards director-driven films and an emphasis on more personal storytelling. This period saw the emergence of young filmmakers who sought to break away from traditional Hollywood norms, resulting in innovative narratives and bold subject matter that often reflected the social upheavals of the time. New Hollywood directors became the new auteurs, blending commercial appeal with artistic expression, reshaping the landscape of American cinema.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Hollywood era followed the decline of the old studio system and was influenced by societal changes, including the civil rights movement and counterculture of the 1960s.
2. Filmmakers such as Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Steven Spielberg emerged during this time, pushing creative boundaries with films that explored complex characters and moral ambiguity.
3. This period gave rise to iconic films like 'Easy Rider,' 'The Godfather,' and 'Jaws,' which not only achieved critical acclaim but also set box office records.
4. The introduction of new technologies, such as lightweight cameras and sound equipment, allowed for more experimental filmmaking techniques and on-location shooting.
5. New Hollywood also led to a more significant presence of film festivals and independent films, laying the groundwork for today's diverse cinematic landscape.

Review Questions

• How did the New Hollywood movement redefine the role of directors in American cinema?
  • The New Hollywood movement redefined directors as the primary creative forces behind films, emphasizing their unique visions and styles through the lens of auteur theory. Directors gained greater control over their projects, allowing them to express personal narratives and tackle complex themes that resonated with contemporary audiences. This shift away from studio-dominated filmmaking fostered a new generation of filmmakers who prioritized artistic integrity while still appealing to mass audiences.
• Discuss how New Hollywood filmmakers addressed social issues through their films during this era.
  • New Hollywood filmmakers often used their work to engage with pressing social issues of the time, such as war, race relations, and counterculture. Films like 'The Graduate' explored generational conflicts while 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' tackled mental health stigma. By integrating social commentary into mainstream narratives, these filmmakers not only entertained but also provoked thought and reflection among viewers about their society's challenges and changes.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of New Hollywood on contemporary independent cinema and mainstream filmmaking practices.
  • The long-term impact of New Hollywood on both independent cinema and mainstream filmmaking is profound. It laid the groundwork for a more auteur-driven approach in modern filmmaking where directors are given creative freedom to express unique perspectives. Additionally, it established independent cinema as a vital part of the industry, influencing how stories are told today. The legacy of New Hollywood continues to resonate in contemporary films that blend artistic expression with commercial success, highlighting diverse voices and innovative storytelling methods.

Related terms

Auteur Theory: A film theory that posits the director as the primary creative force behind a film, emphasizing their personal vision and style as central to its artistic identity.

Independent Cinema: Films produced outside of the major studio system, often characterized by lower budgets, unique storytelling, and a focus on personal or unconventional themes.

Blockbuster: A highly successful film that typically features big budgets, extensive marketing campaigns, and high box office returns, often dominating popular culture.