2024 has been an exceptional year for films and television, despite worries that recent strikes and striving for better working conditions in the film industry might slow the output of anticipated releases. That’s never been more evident than in the fact that the most recent five-dayThanksgiving Weekend Box Officenumbers were the biggest in history, shattering previous records. Still, while the film industry and moviegoing experience are surviving, there are advancements that could be made, especially according to one Hollywood star.
In an interview withDeadline,TenetandThe CreatorstarJohn David Washingtonwas asked how he saw the filmmaking industry, primarily because of the constantly changing landscape with technology like AI. Washington’s first response immediately went to diversity in filmmaking, as he provided this detailed response:
“I’m seeing diversity, especially in the streaming space. That being said, we’re still behind. I think we still need more diversity. I think we need to accelerate the opportunities for us, by us. I also think we’re seeing directors making films. Whether it’s Darren Aronofsky or Paul Thomas Anderson, he’s got some coming out.Jordan Peeleis cooking up, and Ryan Coogler’s new trailer is out. That looks phenomenal. So people are working. It’s hard to say where the industry is, though, I guess because of streaming and AI. But look at the Wicked and Gladiator numbers. People are showing up to the theater still. People still want storytelling. I believe in the power of storytelling, and I think people still want to be entertained. So if there’s a market for that, if people still want to enjoy movies and a communal sense, I think we’re always going to have a place and opportunities to tell stories.”
Diverse and Celebrated Filmmakers Will Help to Accelerate Inclusion
As Washington himself said when discussing the state of the industry, there is not only the need for more diversity but also plenty of directors making their own unique tentpole films, as opposed to the large number of adaptations, sequels, and remakes. If anything, the solution presents itself with the aforementioned high-profile creatives who can use their name recognition and prestige to tell more diverse stories.
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Jordan Peele and Ryan Coogler have highly anticipated releases, with the latter, in particular, having his next original film,Sinners,led by Michael B. Jordan, due for release next year as a prime example. Moreover, there’s a sense that things are going in the right direction. Denzel Washington, John David Washington’s father, recently reached his own milestone withGladiator IIbecoming the actor’s most profitable filmat the box office.Moana 2, also led by a diverse cast, is well on its way to shattering box office records of its own.
While the industry may have a way to go in the eyes of some artists, the admirable efforts being made in some of the biggest movies this year are an encouraging sign. Despite the host of other challenges facing the filmmaking landscape, there still may be hope for the industry.
