HOW THE CULTURE OF A SOCIETY INFLUENCES THE CINEMA THEY MAKE

The culture of a society has a significant influence on the cinema that is produced. Cinema is a form of artistic expression and a tool to tell stories that reflect the reality and experiences of a given society. Here are some ways in which culture influences cinema:

• Themes and Narratives: The culture of a society determines the themes and narratives that are relevant and meaningful to that particular community. Filmmakers tend to address themes that resonate with their audience and are rooted in their culture, such as identity, family, national history, religion, cultural traditions, social and political conflicts, and more.
• Values and beliefs: The values and beliefs of a society influence the stories that are told in the cinema. Every culture has its own value and belief systems, and these are reflected in the movies. For example, in some cultures community and cooperation may be valued, while in others individual values and autonomy may be emphasized more. These values are transmitted through the characters and the plots of the films.
• Aesthetics and visual style: Culture also influences the aesthetics and visual style of cinema. Each society has its own set of visual references, such as architecture, landscape, fashion, painting, and photography, that can be incorporated into cinematography. In addition, culture can influence the choice of colors, costumes, sets, and other visual elements used in movies.
• Humor and language: Humor and language are cultural aspects that can be seen reflected in the cinema. Humor varies from culture to culture, and jokes and puns may be specific to a region or language. Similarly, the use of language in films can reflect the particularities of a specific language or dialect, as well as expressions and idioms specific to a culture.
• Historical and social context: The culture of a society is influenced by its historical and social context, and this context is also reflected in the cinema. Films can address historical events, contemporary social issues, or political issues relevant to the society in which they are made. Cinema can serve as a tool to reflect on the past, understand the present and glimpse the future of a society.

In short, the culture of a society influences cinema through the themes, narratives, values, aesthetics, humor, language, and the historical and social context that are presented in the films. The filmmakers seek to connect with their audience and reflect the experiences and identity of their culture through the seventh art.

Here I will provide you with some examples of films that reflect the culture and historical context of different countries at specific times:

Nazi Germany Movies

During the Nazi regime in Germany (1933-1945), cinema was used as a propaganda tool to promote party ideology and values. Some examples of films produced at that time are:

• "Triumph of the Will" (1935): Directed by Leni Riefenstahl, this documentary film glorifies the Nazi Party and features the party's rally in Nuremberg in 1934.
• "Olympia" (1938): Also directed by Leni Riefenstahl, it is a documentary about the Berlin Olympic Games in 1936, designed to show Aryan superiority and the power of Germany.

American Films About the War in Iraq

During the war in Iraq (2003-2011), American cinema produced several films that addressed this conflict. Some examples are:

• "The Hurt Locker" (2008): Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, this film follows a bomb disposal team in Iraq and shows the tensions and dangers of war.
• "American Sniper" (2014): Directed by Clint Eastwood, it is based on the true story of Chris Kyle, a United States Navy sniper during the war in Iraq.

EXTERNAL LINKS

• The Influence of Movies on Culture and Society
• Why Is Film Important to Society