Hollywood's Biggest Game Changers

American film has for decades has not only shaped the entertainment industry but also, culture, technology and storytelling. Throughout history there are certain films that have changed how movies are made and influenced society through themes and messages. These films continue to inspire directors, actors and even us to the audience. Today I will be noting three of the most influential movies in American film history. 

The first film we’re starting with is Citizen Kane (1941), a classic that has consistently served as a foundation of film studies. Although the film itself was not a major box office success when it first hit theaters, it has stood the test of time and become one of the most celebrated movies in history. Citizen Kane introduced innovative filmmaking techniques; this includes deep-focus cinematography, creative camera angles, and non-linear storytelling. Instead of the usual film telling a story in chronological order, the film unfolds through flashbacks, allowing us as the viewers to piece together the life of Charles Foster Kane. This was incredibly groundbreaking for its time and influenced many future filmmakers. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, the film is widely seen as one of greatest achievements in cinema because of its technical innovation and narrative style (Encyclopedia Brittanica, 2024).

Another film that has left its mark on American Cinema is The Godfather directed by Francis Ford Coppola. This film was released in 1972 and redefined the crime genre by giving its characters emotional depth and moral complexity rather than presenting the classic black and white villain vs heroes. Marlon Brando’s performance as Don Vito Corleone because one of the most iconic performances in American Film. Al Pocino’s role as Michael Corleone showed how character development is vital in driving a story. The film contained realistic dialogue, cinematography, and focused on family relationships that continued to influence film makers for decades. Even current crime shows often borrow themes and storytelling techniques first popularized by The Godfather. 

Though we do not always like to admit it, no film had a greater impact on blockbuster filmmaking than 1977’s Star Wars created by George Lucas. This film revolutionized special effects, sound design, and overall movie marketing. Before the film's Star Wars and science fiction in general were considered niche entertainment. However, Lucas was able to combine cutting age visual effects, memorable characters, and an exciting story for people of all ages. The film's success led to the creation of “Light & Magic” a visual effects company that continued to produce advancements in filmmaking technology for decades to come. Not to mention, Star Wars transformed merchandising by making toys, books, clothing, and other products. According to the Library of Congress, the film’s cultural significance extends beyond entertainment because it redefined the modern Hollywood blockbuster and influenced filmmaking worldwide (Library of Congress, 2023). 

These films share several things that explain their lasting influence. First, all of them introduced either a technical or storytelling innovation that inspired future filmmakers. Second, all three of the films connected with the viewers in some emotional capacity pushing creative boundaries. Lastly, each film continues to be studied at film schools because of their impact on directing, cinematography, editing, acting, and storytelling. Clearly the impact these movies have gone beyond the entertainment industry, techniques taught in classrooms, consistently referenced in pop culture today, and imitated in countless future films and television shows. 

American Film history is filled with remarkable achievements, but few films have shaped the future of filmmaking the way these three have. As filmmaking technology continues to grow and evolve, these classics serve as a foundation and reminder that creativity, storytelling, and artistic vision are what make a film truly timeless.  

Sources

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (n.d.). Why is Citizen Kane such an important film? | Britannica. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/question/Why-is-Citizen-Kane-such-an-important-film

Tucker, N. (2021, December 14). “Return of the Jedi,” Mark Hamill and the 2021 National Film Registry | Timeless. The Library of Congress. https://blogs.loc.gov/loc/2021/12/return-of-the-jedi-mark-hamill-and-the-2021-national-film-registry/