Why Do Montages Remain a Common Feature in Movies and TV Shows?

Funny you should ask. It's not uncommon to go months without encountering a montage in movies or TV shows, yet they still persist. While once seen as a hallmark of innovation and emotion, montages are now considered by some to be passe. However, the allure of this storytelling technique persists, and it's still a common element in both film and television production. This article explores the reasons behind the continued prevalence of montages in movies and TV shows, highlighting their role in narrative efficiency and emotional resonance.

The History of Montages: From 70s to Today

Montages have been a staple in the entertainment industry for decades, with their heyday in the 1970s and 1980s. During this period, montages were innovative, emotive, and a clever tool to convey necessary story points efficiently. Once seen as a revolutionary way to weave together important narrative threads, montages have since evolved into a more regular but still effective part of the storytelling toolkit.

The Role of Montages in Narrative Efficiency

One of the primary reasons montages remain a common feature in movies and TV shows is their effectiveness in narrative efficiency. Cinematic montages allow filmmakers to cover significant periods or developments with a single sequence, compressing timelines, and providing viewers with a quick yet comprehensive overview. For instance, an athlete montage in a sports drama can quickly show years of training, while a montage of a developing romance can demonstrate the deepening relationship in a concise and engaging manner.

Montages in Development and Growth Storylines

When it comes to character development and growth, montages are a powerful tool. They can vividly depict the transformation and evolution of characters over time. Whether it's the growth of children, the training of an athlete, or the development of a romantic relationship, montages provide an emotional and engaging way to convey these changes. The use of music and visual storytelling techniques makes these sequences both captivating and relatable for audiences.

Montages in Television: A Dominant Presence

While montages can be found in both movies and TV shows, they are more commonly used in television content. TV series often rely on montages to convey story arcs over multiple episodes or seasons. For example, in a drama series, a montage might show a character's journey over several months, highlighting the trials and triumphs they face. This technique not only saves time but also maintains viewer engagement by providing a condensed yet thorough narrative.

Modern Examples and Criticisms

Despite their prevalence, montages have faced some criticism. In modern times, they are seen as a crutch for TV shows, particularly in prime-time entertainment. Some argue that they detract from the quality of storytelling and replace dense narrative with slick, emotionally manipulative sequences. An example of this is the use of montages at wedding receptions, where the relentless pacing and emotional manipulation can feel tiring and forced. However, the effectiveness of montages is evident in their continued use, even in content that might otherwise be criticized for relying too heavily on them.

The Future of Montages

As technology continues to evolve, filmmakers and TV producers are likely to find new and innovative ways to use montages. The use of CGI and advanced editing techniques can enhance the impact and creativity of these sequences, making them even more engaging and memorable. While there is a risk that montages might become overused and lose their impact, their unique ability to convey complex stories efficiently means they will likely remain a staple in the world of storytelling.

Conclusion

Montages remain a versatile and effective storytelling technique, whether in movies or TV shows. They provide a means to efficiently convey complex narratives and character development, maintaining viewer engagement and emotional resonance. While they have faced criticism, their enduring presence in the entertainment industry speaks to their continued value in the story-telling toolkit. As the industry evolves, montages will likely continue to be refined and innovated to meet the changing needs of audiences and creators alike.