New Hollywood

Definition

New Hollywood refers to a transformative movement in American cinema that emerged in the late 1960s and continued into the 1970s, characterized by a shift from traditional studio filmmaking to a more independent and artistic approach. This era saw filmmakers gaining greater creative control, often incorporating themes of urban decay and social unrest, reflecting the turbulent cultural landscape of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Hollywood filmmakers were influenced by European cinema, particularly the French New Wave, which encouraged experimentation and personal storytelling.
2. Key films from this era include 'Easy Rider', 'The Graduate', and 'Taxi Driver', which tackled contemporary issues like disillusionment, counterculture, and urban violence.
3. The decline of the Production Code in favor of MPAA ratings allowed for more adult themes and complex characters in films during this time.
4. Directors like Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Steven Spielberg emerged as prominent figures, reshaping narrative structures and filmmaking techniques.
5. The economic success of these films led to a new model of filmmaking that blended artistic vision with commercial viability, influencing future generations of filmmakers.

Review Questions

• How did the rise of New Hollywood impact the representation of urban decay and social issues in American cinema?
  • The rise of New Hollywood significantly influenced the representation of urban decay and social issues by allowing filmmakers to explore gritty realities that reflected contemporary American life. This era encouraged directors to address themes such as poverty, crime, and disenfranchisement in cities, portraying them with a raw honesty previously unseen in mainstream films. Movies like 'Taxi Driver' showcased characters struggling against societal breakdown, highlighting the intersection of individual experiences with broader socio-political tensions.
• Discuss how the transformation of American cinema in the 1960s and 1970s contributed to the evolution of filmmaking styles and narratives during the New Hollywood period.
  • The transformation of American cinema during the 1960s and 1970s paved the way for New Hollywood filmmakers to embrace more innovative styles and narratives. This period marked a departure from formulaic storytelling dominated by major studios towards a more personal, character-driven approach influenced by the auteur theory. Filmmakers began experimenting with non-linear narratives, unconventional editing techniques, and darker themes, resulting in a richer cinematic landscape that challenged audience expectations and pushed creative boundaries.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of New Hollywood on contemporary filmmaking practices and its legacy in today's film industry.
  • New Hollywood has had lasting effects on contemporary filmmaking practices, establishing a framework for independent cinema and fostering an environment where diverse voices can be heard. The emphasis on auteur-driven projects has encouraged filmmakers to maintain creative control over their work, leading to innovative storytelling across genres. Furthermore, New Hollywood's influence is evident in today’s film industry through a blend of commercial success and artistic integrity, exemplified by current trends in streaming platforms that support unique narratives while catering to wide audiences.

Related terms

Auteur Theory: A critical framework that emphasizes the director's role as the primary creative force behind a film, treating films as personal expressions of their creators.

Blockbuster: A term used to describe films that are produced with high budgets and are expected to achieve significant box office success, often leading to franchise creation.

Indie Film Movement: A movement characterized by the production of films outside the major studio system, often with lower budgets, focusing on unique storytelling and artistic expression.