The Complexity of Filmmaking: Why 'Disturbing Movies' Exist

When discussing films like A Serbian Film, audiences often wonder why they exist in the first place. Here, we delve into the multifaceted reasons behind the creation of such films and the role of audience demand in shaping the future of the industry.

The Role of Audience Demand

Many filmmakers and critics argue that the creation of disturbing movies, such as A Serbian Film, is driven by the very act of audiences supporting their production through box office revenue. Srdjan Spasojevic, the director of A Serbian Film, suggests that the film's creation was a response to a need for honest and raw expressions of reality, as he states, We just wanted to express our deepest and honest feelings towards our region and also the world in general – a world that is sugarcoated in political correctness but also very rotten under that faade – with a movie style we liked.

This point of view highlights how films like A Serbian Film can be seen as a reflection of the societal psyche, encouraging a dialogue about the darker aspects of human nature and the world around us. However, viewers themselves have the power to influence the content of future films simply by choosing what they watch or choose not to watch.

Understanding Viewer Behavior and Box Office Impact

Spasojevic makes a poignant observation when he notes, And then demand even more. Stop watching 'disturbing movies' and the box office will dictate what's filmed next. This statement underscores the direct correlation between viewer demand and the kinds of films that are produced. According to him, the film industry relies heavily on the financial success of every production to determine its future direction.

Therefore, if audiences continue to support films that challenge norms and push boundaries, filmmakers are more likely to continue exploring such themes in their work. Conversely, if viewers begin to show a preference for less controversial content, the types of films produced could shift accordingly.

Self-Censorship and the Freedom to Express

Another perspective is that filmmakers are exploring new forms of artistic expression. They may be drawn to the allure of the darker aspects of human nature, fascinated by its complexity and the ability to provoke thought and conversation.
As Spasojevic notes, most are fascinated by the dark side of humanity and would like to express that with their own what they consider to be 'artistic' take. This suggests a desire to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in cinema, thereby providing audiences with a more unfiltered and authentic representation of reality.

However, it is also important to acknowledge the role of self-censorship in the film industry. While many directors may be intent on creating films that challenge and provoke, the reality is that they must also consider the market and the socio-political climate. In many cases, the desire to free the creative voice may be tempered by the need to ensure the film’s commercial success and the protection of the filmmakers and their rights.

Who Are “You People”?

The term "you people" in this context can be interpreted as a blanket statement made without regard for the diversity and individuality of both filmmakers and their audiences. It is a reminder that not all filmmakers or audiences share the same tastes or desires. Every filmmaker brings a unique perspective and style to their work, and it is unfair to generalize their motivations.

Filmmakers such as Srdjan Spasojevic are creating films that they believe in, and they do so with the hope of sparking important discussions. Similarly, audiences have the right to choose the content they wish to engage with, and this choice greatly impacts the industry.

In conclusion, whether a film is classified as "disturbing" or not is subjective. It is a reflection of the filmmaker's vision, which in turn is influenced by societal attitudes and audience preferences. Both creators and viewers play a critical role in shaping the landscape of independent and mainstream cinema.