Evolving Standards in Cinema: A Critical Look at Martin Scorsese's Views

The discussion surrounding the decline in cinema art and its systematic devaluation is one often revisited, with notable figures like Martin Scorsese leading the charge. In his latest essay, Scorsese argues that the art of cinema is being systematically devalued, sidelined, demeaned, and reduced to its lowest common denominator. This essay not only highlights the broader issue of entertainment quality but also targets the changing landscape of Hollywood, where profit-driven decisions often overshadow artistic merit.

Artistry vs. Profit: A Battle for Quality

Scorsese's critique extends beyond just cinema, targeting the pervasive decline in overall entertainment quality. He argues that the entertainment industry has become increasingly profit-driven, with studios focusing on safe bets and franchises over original, innovative content. This shift is evident in the proliferation of dumb, purely profit-driven drivel, reminiscent of the early days of Hollywood, where formulaic storytelling and derivative narratives often dominated the screen. However, Scorsese points out that even in the '90s, the golden age of cinema, the chances of finding a quality film were still better than they are today.

A Return to Mid-Budget Realism?

Situated in this context, Scorsese's essay serves as a stark reminder that good cinema is slipping away. While the 70s and 90s may have showcased a more nuanced and diverse approach to storytelling, the current era seems dominated by superheroes and other franchises. At issue is the elimination of mid-budget, nonspectacular dramas for grown-ups, which have traditionally reflected on reality and offered profound commentary on life. This shift towards mass-market blockbusters, effectively sidelining more serious and artful projects, is a concerning trend.

Scorsese's Historical Perspective: A Tale of Two Decades

When Scorsese discusses the historical context, he highlights the stark contrast between different eras of Hollywood. In the 70s and 80s, the film industry was plagued by inferior content, but the 90s marked a significant improvement, with more high-quality films being produced. Yet, over the past two decades, the decline in the quality of cinema has been relentless, leading to situations where good movies are rare, and bad ones are far too common. This phenomenon has roots in the unchecked profit motives of studios, leading to an environment where anything, no matter how derivative or formulaic, is churned out to maximize profits.

The Case of Raging Bull: A Double-Edged Sword

In his essay, Scorsese also takes the liberty to critique one of his own works, Raging Bull. While it is true that the film is not a sports movie in the classic sense, Scorsese argues that the portrayal of boxing as a character-focused tragedy rather than a celebration of the sport undermines the inherent drama and beauty of the sport. He suggests that Raging Bull sidelined and demeaned the art of boxing by focusing on Jake LaMotta, a character defined by his character flaws, rather than highlighting more inspiring figures like Joe Frazier or Mike Tyson. Scorsese's challenge to himself and his peers is clear: make a real sports movie that elevates the genre.

Arousing Change: A Call for Artistic Integrity

Scorsese's essay serves as a critical call to arms for the film industry, urging filmmakers and studios to prioritize artistic integrity and narrative depth over mere profit. It is a reminder that cinema, much like any other form of art, should strive to elevate and inspire, rather than simply entertain. As Scorsese rightly asserts, there is no reason why Hollywood cannot produce quality cinema once again; it is only because of the dominance of greedy, profit-first mentality that we've seen a marked decline. By reasserting these values, filmmakers can help regain the lost art of cinema and foster a renewed appreciation for the medium.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Martin Scorsese's essay on the devaluation of cinema art resonates as a poignant call for reflection. While studios and filmmakers face the challenge of catering to a mass audience, it is crucial to maintain a commitment to artistic merit and narrative depth. By doing so, we can ensure that cinema remains a powerful vessel for storytelling and cultural commentary, rather than a purely commercial endeavor.