New Hollywood Genre Revisionism

Definition

New Hollywood genre revisionism refers to a significant shift in filmmaking during the late 1960s to the late 1970s, characterized by filmmakers reinterpreting and subverting traditional genre conventions. This period saw a blend of artistic innovation and commercial viability, with directors challenging established norms and audience expectations, leading to more complex narratives and morally ambiguous characters. The movement marked a departure from the classic Hollywood formula, reflecting broader cultural changes and a desire for more authentic storytelling in major film genres.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Hollywood genre revisionism movement arose as filmmakers sought creative freedom during a time when traditional Hollywood was struggling with declining audiences and societal upheaval.
2. Key films of this era include 'Bonnie and Clyde', 'The Graduate', and 'Easy Rider', which all featured unconventional storylines and challenged the moral codes of previous film genres.
3. Directors like Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and George Lucas played pivotal roles in this movement by introducing complex characters and darker themes that were often absent in classic cinema.
4. The movement often blended genres, creating hybrid films that defied easy categorization and reflected the diverse influences of European art cinema and American pop culture.
5. New Hollywood genre revisionism laid the groundwork for modern filmmaking techniques, including the rise of independent cinema and a focus on character-driven stories over traditional plot-driven narratives.

Review Questions

• How did New Hollywood genre revisionism impact the portrayal of characters in films from this period?
  • New Hollywood genre revisionism significantly impacted character portrayal by introducing morally ambiguous protagonists who were flawed and complex. Unlike the clear-cut heroes and villains typical in earlier films, these characters often faced internal conflicts and made questionable decisions, reflecting the societal changes and disillusionment of the era. This shift allowed for richer storytelling that resonated with audiences looking for deeper connections to on-screen figures.
• Analyze how the themes presented in films from New Hollywood genre revisionism reflect broader societal changes during the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The themes presented in New Hollywood films often mirrored the tumultuous social landscape of the 1960s and 1970s, including issues like disillusionment with authority, counterculture movements, and shifting gender roles. Films like 'Easy Rider' encapsulated the spirit of rebellion against societal norms while exploring personal freedom and identity. As audiences grappled with events like the Vietnam War and civil rights movements, these films provided a reflection of their struggles and aspirations through innovative storytelling techniques.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of New Hollywood genre revisionism on contemporary cinema, particularly in terms of genre evolution.
  • The long-term effects of New Hollywood genre revisionism on contemporary cinema are profound, as it established a foundation for more experimental narratives and diverse genres. Today’s filmmakers frequently draw inspiration from this era's emphasis on character depth, genre blending, and subversion of traditional tropes. This movement paved the way for independent films to flourish, allowing new voices to emerge in cinema while challenging mainstream norms and creating a more inclusive film industry that prioritizes originality over formulaic storytelling.

Related terms

Auteur Theory: A critical theory that emphasizes the director as the primary creative force behind a film, suggesting that their personal vision and style can be seen throughout their body of work.

Blockbuster: A term used to describe highly successful films that achieve significant box office success, often characterized by large budgets, extensive marketing, and widespread audience appeal.

Postmodernism: A cultural movement that emerged in the mid-to-late 20th century, marked by a questioning of traditional narratives and styles, leading to irony, pastiche, and a focus on the fluidity of meaning.