New Hollywood

Definition

New Hollywood refers to a transformative period in American cinema from the late 1960s to the early 1980s, characterized by a shift in creative control from studios to directors and screenwriters. This era saw the emergence of innovative storytelling, unique genres, and a willingness to tackle controversial subjects, resulting in a blending of traditional genre elements and the birth of hybrid genres that redefined mainstream film.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Hollywood emerged in response to changing audience tastes and the decline of the classical studio system, allowing for more creative freedom in filmmaking.
2. Directors like Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Steven Spielberg became prominent figures during this era, using their artistic vision to push cinematic boundaries.
3. The blending of genres became common, leading to innovative films that combined elements of drama, comedy, horror, and action, such as 'Jaws' and 'The Godfather.'
4. This period also saw increased representation of marginalized voices in film, with stories exploring themes of identity, race, and societal issues that had previously been overlooked.
5. The rise of independent cinema during New Hollywood contributed to the evolution of genre hybridization, giving filmmakers the opportunity to experiment with unconventional storytelling methods.

Review Questions

• How did New Hollywood impact the relationship between directors and studios compared to previous eras?
  • New Hollywood marked a significant shift in the balance of power within the film industry. Unlike previous eras where studios held tight control over productions, this period allowed directors to take creative control over their projects. As a result, filmmakers became key decision-makers in terms of storytelling and visual style, leading to a more personal and expressive form of filmmaking that greatly influenced contemporary cinema.
• In what ways did genre evolution and hybridization manifest during the New Hollywood era?
  • During New Hollywood, filmmakers began experimenting with genre conventions by blending elements from different genres to create unique cinematic experiences. This hybridization allowed for innovative storytelling techniques that challenged traditional narratives. Films like 'The Exorcist' combined horror with psychological drama, while 'Bonnie and Clyde' mixed crime with dark comedy, reflecting the era's desire for fresh perspectives and diverse narratives.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of New Hollywood on modern filmmaking and genre conventions.
  • The legacy of New Hollywood has profoundly shaped modern filmmaking by establishing a culture where directors are viewed as auteurs with distinct visions. This shift has encouraged more diverse storytelling that often blends genres, making way for films that reflect complex themes relevant to contemporary audiences. Additionally, New Hollywood's emphasis on independent cinema paved the way for today’s thriving indie film scene, allowing filmmakers more freedom to explore unconventional narratives and push genre boundaries.

Related terms

Auteur Theory: A film criticism concept that emphasizes the director's role as the primary creative force behind a film, suggesting that their personal vision is evident in the final product.

Blockbuster: A term used to describe high-budget films that achieve commercial success, often characterized by large-scale production, extensive marketing, and mass appeal.

Counterculture Cinema: Films that emerged during the 1960s and 1970s reflecting the social and political upheaval of the time, often challenging mainstream values and conventions.