A lot has changed in the world over the last 30 years. Some of these changes were too obvious to be missed even by those least interested in what was going on around the world. The adjective “new” started to be placed in front of almost every word. Let’s try and think about a few: “new world”, “new method”, “new agriculture”, “new education system”, “new economy”, and the list goes on. We are living in an era where everything’s new and, each day, we wake up to an innovation in the cinema industry. Although these rapid changes are felt almost instantaneously in the world of cinema, it also holds on to the past.
“WE WILL SEE MORE CREATIVE AND DISTINGUISHED FILMMAKERS IN THE FUTURE BECAUSE TECHNOLOGY IS MEANINGFUL AS LONG AS IT LIBERATES HUMAN EXPERIENCE.”
Having worked in the film industry for 35 years may give you more ideas about the future. At this point, I don’t believe that technology, no matter how advanced, can replace “human experience.” If this were possible, many branches of art wouldn’t have survived. The “human” factor is the sole reason for all artwork from literature to drama and dance. I do not doubt we will see more creative and distinguished filmmakers in the future because technology is meaningful as long as it liberates human experience, bringing what’s far near and giving us time. This should be our motive as we turn to face the future.
A perspective that focuses on “respect for nature and human life” is the primary innovation I expect to see in the film industry. This perspective encompasses a wide range from work hours to hierarchy in the workplace. In other words, “making a film” will emphasise a sense of respect for humans and nature, maybe more so than ever. A film producer will create a formula to somehow compensate for the carbon footprint they have on nature and environment while creating that work. On the other hand, we will also see scenarios with stronger awareness that especially distance themselves from discrimination. I believe we will see highly creative works that break physical bounds and focus on the heart. It’s thrilling to see concepts such as time and space transform into works that are “freely” shaped by the requirements of directors’ worlds, away from formulaic knowledge.
What about access to films? The concept of “festival” which has borne great significance since ancient Greece is the world’s premium art event thanks to film festivals. This will go unchanged in the new world order. However, these festivals will highlight the concept of “sustainability” and will, like film productions, focus on “nature and humans.” Although digital communication is highly strong nowadays, the meaning of physical gatherings is always “new.”
Content is created for people, and we see increasing means for content to reach its target audience. Digital platforms and social media are examples for this. Besides, we’re promised a new adventure as we’re introduced to “metaverse” which has become an essential part of our lives. This, first and foremost, brings equality of opportunity, making accessibility more important.
All this is just a summary. In fact, we need to make pace with brave dreams and innovations that are” new, now, and here” and to send letters to the future through film. This is what it means to feel and to create in harmony with the innovations of our age. That’s why filmmakers are always “ageless and timeless.” They are always after the “new” and creating it.