The Most Influential Movies in Shaping History

When discussing movies that have changed the course of human history, 'The Graduate' stands out as a beacon of change in the film industry, but it is not alone. Another impactful movie from the 20th century, 'On the Beach', has also played a significant role in influencing societal and political discourse. Both films have left indelible marks on society, reflecting and sometimes reshaping the world around us.

Reinventing the Film Industry: The Graduate (1967)

One of the key turning points for the American film industry occurred in 1967 with the release of the movie 'The Graduate'. This low-budget film, directed by Mike Nichols and co-written by Buck Henry and Buck Henry (the latter is a pseudonym for the duo), tells the story of a newly graduated college student who becomes involved with an older woman and later falls in love with her daughter. The film captured the spirit of a rebellious generation that couldn't relate to its parents, providing a profound insight into the cultural and generational divides of the time.

Originally, the movie industry targeted general audiences. Theaters were filled with crowds of diverse demographics, including seniors, children, people from various ethnic backgrounds, New Yorkers, and inhabitants from far-flung regions like Alaska. However, 'The Graduate' broke all these molds. The film quickly became a blockbuster, grossing considerably more than projected, and breaking every record for audience attendance. Surprisingly, the majority of the viewers were young males, primarily under the age of thirty.

The significant shift in demographic trends led the film industry to reconsider its approach. There was a realization that films could cater to niche audiences, a strategy that would then shape the future of cinema. Movies were produced to appeal to specific age groups, nationalities, races, education levels, income levels, and even political ideologies. This innovative approach resonated with audiences, giving rise to the era of 'realism' in filmmaking. Today, titles such as 'The Graduate' are highly regarded, with the American Film Institute placing it as the 7th best film of all time.

A Dystopian Warning: On the Beach (1959)

On the other hand, the 1959 novel 'On the Beach' by Nevil Shute and its subsequent movie adaptation offer a stark warning about the consequences of global nuclear war. The book, set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world where a nuclear conflict has wiped out most of humanity, serves as a chilling reminder of the potential dangers of nuclear weapons. This fictional yet haunting narrative saw discussions about nuclear armament rise to new heights.

Books like 'On the Beach', particularly given their gripping nature, were not just read; they were discussed in international forums. Leaders like Nikita Khrushchev and Dwight D. Eisenhower, among others, engaged in serious conversations on how to prevent such devastating scenarios. The impact of such a story was profound, as it brought to light the need for vigilance and peaceful dialogue in the nuclear age.

The Legacy of These Films

Films have the power to influence society on multiple levels. 'The Graduate' and 'On the Beach' are prime examples of how movies can reshape the landscape of entertainment and even influence global politics. While 'The Graduate' revolutionized the film industry by focusing on niche audiences, 'On the Beach' served as a realistic and cautionary tale about the dangers of nuclear warfare, forcing world leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue to avoid catastrophic outcomes.

Their legacies continue to resonate today, serving as a reminder of the significant impact that cinema can have on shaping public perception and influencing societal change.