Critical Reflections on Modern Movie Makers: What They Should Stop Doing

As a seasoned observer and occasional critic of the film industry, I've noticed several trends and practices in contemporary cinema that provoke my disappointment. Specifically, I find it deeply concerning when filmmakers stray from well-established genres, ignore fundamental storytelling techniques, or mistreat their source material. In this article, I'll discuss the top issues that movie makers should stop doing and argue why these practices detract from the quality and integrity of their work.

Slasher Genres Gone Wrong

One of the most egregious offenses is seen in the adaptation of the “I Know What You Did Last Summer” TV series. The original 1997 film is a prime example of a slasher movie that adheres to the established rules of the genre. However, the recent adaptation fails to meet these standards, delivering a completely disparate experience that alienates fans of the genre.

Genres are inherently defined by certain conventions and expectations. In the case of slashers, explicit violence, suspense, and shocking kills are fundamental. If a film disavows these core elements, it risks overshadowing the genre's intrinsic appeal. The directors chose to strip away the visceral thrill and repulsion that define this subgenre. If they didn't intend to adhere to these rules, they should have avoided creating a slasher altogether. This egregious misstep not only hinders audience engagement but also undermines the genre itself.

Dark Scenes Without Clear Vision

Another issue that frustrates me is the excessive reliance on poorly lit, hard-to-follow scenes, particularly in action and thriller films. Action should be dynamic and engaging, and the use of darkness should enhance the tension, not hinder it.

Action scenes, in particular, benefit from clear visuals and the ability to display both the hero and antagonist in combat. When viewers can’t discern the movements or motivations of the characters, the engagement diminishes. Filmmakers must strike a balance between atmospheric tension and visual clarity, ensuring that the audience remains captivated throughout the scene.

Adapting from Books with Extreme Rehapus

Filmmakers often overhauled the source material to such a degree that the original essence is unrecognizable. This approach does a disservice to both the original author and the fans of the book. It’s not just about faithfulness to the text; it’s also about maintaining the spirit and emotional impact of the story.

When creating a movie adaptation, it’s crucial to respect the original narrative and themes. Taking a book and transforming it into a completely different story can alienate fans and detract from the overall quality of the film. The essence of the book, including the characters and the plot, should remain intact, or at the very least, should be clearly explained to the audience.

Violence and Moral Tropes

The misrepresentation of violence as thrilling entertainment is a consistent issue in contemporary cinema. It’s important for filmmakers to consider the message conveyed by their content and the implications of violence on screen.

Using violence gratuitously, especially when coupled with the implication that moral righteousness ensures invulnerability, can contribute to harmful stereotypes. When the hero survives unscathed while their allies are killed, it reinforces a myth of invincibility that is unrealistic and harmful. Films should avoid such patterns and instead focus on more complex and nuanced portrayals of characters and their journeys.

Age-Appropriate Casting for Realism

Age-appropriate casting is another area that needs improvement. Films that cast young actors in roles requiring seasoned expertise often fall short of realism. For instance, casting young men and women as experienced federal agents and gritty city police officers can be jarring and unrealistic.

Similarly, the practice of pairing young women with much older men in romantic scenes can feel out of place and may detract from the authenticity of the relationship. Filmmakers should invest time in casting that aligns with the characters' backgrounds and the story's setting, ensuring that the performances feel genuine and believed by the audience.

In conclusion, it’s time for filmmakers to reassess their approach to various aspects of their craft. By adhering to genre conventions, ensuring visual clarity, respecting source material, and casting appropriately, they can produce more engaging, realistic, and emotionally resonant films.