Movies Still Matter: Why Film Unites a Divided World

In an era saturated with instant gratification and bite-sized content, the enduring power of movies might seem questionable. But I argue that movies, and the way we consume news about them, matter now more than ever. Why? Because in a fragmented world, they offer a shared cultural touchstone, a space for empathy, and a vital form of storytelling that can shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Are we really connecting, or just consuming?

Opinion: Movies as a Cultural Unifier

We live in echo chambers. Social media algorithms curate feeds based on our pre-existing biases, reinforcing what we already believe. Movies, however, offer a shared experience. Think about the buzz surrounding the latest Marvel release or the anticipation for a new documentary. These events bring people together, spark conversations, and create a sense of collective identity. A 2025 study by the Pew Research Center found that 78% of Americans had watched a movie in the last month, highlighting the medium’s enduring reach.

Remember the summer of 2024, when “Galactic Defenders 7” dominated the box office? I was at the AMC Phipps Plaza, and the energy was electric. Strangers were high-fiving each other, debating plot points, and generally reveling in the shared experience. You don’t get that from scrolling through your social media feed. These moments are important. They remind us that we are not alone, that we share common interests and passions.

This shared experience extends beyond the theater. News about movies – casting announcements, trailers, reviews – fuels online discussions and creates communities of fans. These discussions, while sometimes heated, can be incredibly enriching, offering different perspectives and interpretations of the film. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about engagement.

Opinion: Movies Cultivate Empathy and Understanding

Beyond shared experience, movies have the power to cultivate empathy and understanding. They allow us to step into the shoes of others, to experience different cultures, and to confront uncomfortable truths. A well-crafted film can challenge our assumptions, broaden our perspectives, and make us more compassionate human beings.

Consider the impact of documentaries like “The Forgotten Farmers,” which shed light on the struggles of family farms in rural Georgia. These films humanize complex issues and connect us to people and places we might otherwise never encounter. Or think about the power of historical dramas to bring the past to life and help us understand the events that shaped our present.

I saw a screening of “The Forgotten Farmers” at the Plaza Theatre on Ponce de Leon Avenue last year. I had a client last year who grew up on a small farm near Statesboro. He told me the film resonated deeply with his own family’s experiences. It sparked a conversation between us about the challenges facing rural communities and the importance of supporting local agriculture. It was a powerful reminder of the human connection that film can foster. Here’s what nobody tells you: this power is precisely why some parties try to ban films they disagree with.

Opinion: Movies as a Mirror to Society

Movies often serve as a mirror to society, reflecting our values, anxieties, and aspirations. They can be powerful tools for social commentary, sparking dialogue and debate about important issues. From films that address racial injustice to those that explore the complexities of gender identity, movies have the potential to challenge the status quo and promote social change. This is especially true when we seek out diverse voices and perspectives in our viewing choices.

Take, for example, the rise of independent films that tackle issues of mental health. These films, often made with limited budgets and outside of the Hollywood mainstream, offer authentic and nuanced portrayals of mental illness, challenging stigma and promoting understanding. They are a vital counterpoint to the often-glamorized or sensationalized depictions of mental health in mainstream media.

We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm, which consulted with a small film festival in Decatur. One of the films we promoted, “Echoes of Silence,” was a low-budget drama about a young woman struggling with anxiety. The film received rave reviews and sparked a community-wide conversation about mental health resources. Its impact was far greater than its budget would suggest. It is important to note that film generates over $40 billion in global box office revenue annually, contributing significantly to local economies and supporting jobs, according to data from the AP News.

Opinion: Counterarguments and Why They Fail

Some might argue that movies are a frivolous distraction, a waste of time and money in a world facing more pressing problems. They might say that we should focus on “real” news and information, not escapist fantasies. But this argument misses the point. Movies are not just entertainment; they are a form of storytelling, a way of processing our experiences, and a means of connecting with others. To dismiss them as frivolous is to ignore their profound impact on our culture and our lives.

Others might argue that the rise of streaming services and online content has diminished the importance of movies. They might say that people are no longer going to theaters and that the cinematic experience is dying. But this is not necessarily true. While streaming services have undoubtedly changed the way we consume movies, they have also made them more accessible than ever before. And the communal experience of seeing a movie in a theater remains a powerful draw for many people.

Consider the case of “Artemis Rising,” a science fiction film released in early 2026. It was available on several streaming platforms, but it also had a successful theatrical run. Why? Because people wanted to experience the film on the big screen, with a crowd of fellow fans. They wanted to be part of the event. So, while the distribution methods have changed, the fundamental appeal of movies remains strong.

In fact, the rise of streaming has arguably made movies even more important. With so much content available at our fingertips, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. Movies, with their structured narratives and carefully crafted visuals, offer a more focused and immersive experience. They demand our attention in a way that shorter forms of content often do not.

It is easy to claim that movies are dying. But the data doesn’t lie. People are still watching. People are still talking. People still care.

So, the next time you’re tempted to dismiss a movie as “just entertainment,” remember its power to connect us, to challenge us, and to shape our understanding of the world. Support independent filmmakers, seek out diverse voices, and engage in thoughtful discussions about the films you watch. Movies matter, now more than ever. Let’s treat them that way.

And if you want to know how movies win or lose now, keep reading!

Don’t just passively consume. Actively engage. Seek out films that challenge your perspectives, support independent artists, and participate in discussions that deepen your understanding. Go see a movie this weekend!