In the past fifty years, film has not only become a serious art form, but also an independent research field. The continuous progress of film technology and the high conceptualization of film bring the audience to the world outside his daily world to provide entertainment, which makes film a popular media for the masses.
I will discuss the influence of film from two angles: its advantages and disadvantages.
First of all, its advantages.
Although there is no data on the systematic use of documentaries and feature films in social education programs in many countries, the experience of Canada, the United States and the Soviet Union shows that documentaries and films are helpful to establish a better social order and ethnic communities with a common understanding of the country.
In addition, many foreign films are being shown in cinemas and on TV. Many people think that these films pose a threat to our cultural identity, but in fact, these films help people understand culture, values and people around the world. Therefore, they can choose their own value system more wisely and maturely, because cultural openness is also conducive to the development of their minds.
Most importantly, many movies depict historical events. These movies are like history lessons for the audience, because they show things that we can't witness or participate in. Think of war movies, such as tuskegee airmen and Memphis Beauty. Although not 100% accurate, both of them describe the real events of historical wars. They are examples of how movies teach a new generation what their distant relatives have done for their country.
Another type of information film describes cultures and societies around the world. "The city of God is the best example". These films show the difficulties people in other countries face in their daily lives. These are just two simple examples to illustrate how movies can become a learning tool for the general audience. Of course, the opposite may happen and often happens. I mean those so-called "informative" movies that present distorted information. When people regard the information presented as absolute truth, they will form unfounded opinions.
However, it also has negative effects.
Many movies often contain scenes of violence and horror. Many times, children who watch movies will be negatively affected by these scenes, and instill fear and fear when they are young, which is very unfavorable for their future development. In addition, some people may think that there are movies suitable for every age group, but in retrospect, children may watch animated movies of their favorite superheroes. These superheroes will do supernatural things, or other characters they admire, such as Mickey Mouse, who will do all kinds of things that are impossible in real life. These movies will make children think they can do all these things, too.
People may say that these children's brains make them want to do crazy things, but there is another perfect example of the negative impact of movies, which is teenagers. If you watch a movie on a certain topic at this age, you will be greatly influenced by it.
Other young people may watch action movies, and the violence in these movies also affects their minds. This makes them think more about violence and extremism, and may lead them to commit crimes and other behaviors that may harm others. These young people may watch their favorite actors do other things that society doesn't like. Their favorite actors and characters may take drugs, such as smoking in their programs and movies, which has a negative impact on young viewers. They may also start smoking, or they may think it is "cool", or it will improve their social status.
In a word, movies have the ability to influence local and global society. Movies have really played an important role in changing our society. Patriotic movies remind us to love our nation. Good medical films have treated many patients through laughter therapy. Adventure movies give us a sense of adventure in exploring new possibilities. But society, its trends, and people's reactions to these trends affect movies. In each case, the impact may be positive or negative.