When starting this week, we looked at the French New Way. This was an idea provoked by the thought of making films as art and not tools for monetization. A big issue is that people go into something because of how much money there is to be made, and not because the pursuit in question is their passion. During this era of Hollywood, many independent film makers and smaller studios came to the scene in order to create works of cinematic masterpieces. This was an opportunity for those who had visions of cinema to come to the front and display their talent. 

We transitioned into the American wave of the 1970’s. We see some of the greats here, such as Woody Allen and George Lucas. This is when iconic works such as Star Wars, E.T., and the Exorcist came to being. The Exorcist is seen as the modern-day original supernatural horror film. We would not have modern works such as The Conjuring or Paranormal activity without films like these to incite creativity in later directors. The 70’s was in a sense the pioneer decade that set the tone for the movie scene that we all later come to love. 

This week we watched Poseidon Adventure. We saw the talents of Gene Hackman up close. I was frustrated by Nonnie, who started problems with the group and caused them delays. I am not really a fan of this thriller-esque genre, as I do not like the constant state of anticipation. I wondered what would happen to the group various times and found myself emotionally invested in this film. I think about the power of this genre, and how it can sweep people into an emotional rollercoaster. I would suppose that is the beauty of this genre. 

Moreover, the 70’s was a time period that allowed for much creative freedom. Never was there a time where directors were given more freedom to direct in whichever styles they wanted. They had creative autonomy and the liberty to manifest their visions on the big screen. The 70’s was a good decade for art in general because people felt more liberated and elevated, causing them to have unique pursuits and consume art more. Target audiences changed during this decade, as Hollywood began making movies for rebellious young people. Leadership also changed during this period, as MGM, Universal, Paramount, Warner Bros, and UA all went through mergers, something which had been considered unprecedented. 

I have also been thinking of the film called “The Godfather” which was released in 1972. The movie was something of almost cult-like adoration due to the violence, drug abuse, and the overall grit that constituted the atmosphere of this iconic film. The Exorcist caused some people to pass out from its unprecedented levels of fear. Jaws was released in 197 5, and it can be argued that it is the most influential film of the 70’s. It is without saying that the 70’s was a magnificent decade for film.