Art evolves, and cinema evolves along with it, as trends shift. Amidst these changes lies a crucial question: how will cinema continue to evolve? Throughout history, there has been a debate between “clean” art versus “edgy” or provocative art, and it’s worth considering which direction cinema will lean towards in the future.
While some predict that content will become more edgy over time, statistics actually contradict these assertions. Technically speaking, audiences are becoming more adventurous, and censor boards are gradually allowing more edgy content.
However, in general terms, mainstream cinema is featuring less explicit sexual content or drug-related themes on the big screen. Despite the increased awareness of sex and explicit content in entertainment, recent films like “Fair Play,” “Poor Things,” or “Saltburn” cater to mature audiences with limited explicit content. Even films like “Oppenheimer” restrict the use of sex and nudity, which would have been rare decades ago.
To illustrate, comparing the 250 highest-grossing films since 2000 reveals a 40% decline in sexual content usage. Around 2000, almost 20% of the highest-grossing films contained no sexual content, whereas two decades later, this number has risen to 50%, indicating a significant change in trends.
Even a film like “Miller’s Girl” sparked controversy due to its sensual scenes. Comedies like “Joy Ride” and “No Hard Feelings” featured nudity but avoided open intercourse scenes.
Now, this is definitely off, why is it happening?
Firstly, many sexually experimental films now find their new home on OTT platforms. Most directors and studios prefer releasing adult-themed content there rather than opting for a theatrical release.
Secondly, the majority of the top 250 box office films are now made with a focus on younger audiences, particularly with the surge in comic book and video game adaptations. Therefore, it’s advantageous to keep these films rated PG.
Thirdly, people have greater access to the internet, which also provides access to adult content. As a result, there is less demand for nudity on the big screen. There are much more to it, but primarily, though the audience is growing mature, there isn’t much need to show sex and nudity on screen, when it’s absolutely necessary for the story or character, it must be done. But the audiance is becoming somehwat intelligent regarding this.
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