In a recent interview from Portugal, acclaimed filmmaker Kenneth Lonergan offered a candid critique of contemporary Hollywood, lamenting the shift toward politically driven storytelling. Lonergan, best known for his nuanced dramas like Manchester by the Sea, expresses frustration with the current cinematic landscape, where films often prioritize ideological messaging over narrative complexity.
Since the Trump era, American cinema has noticeably veered towards political correctness, often at the expense of bold, edgy storytelling. According to Lonergan, this trend has resulted in films becoming platforms for simplified political views rather than genuine artistic expression. He notes, “Propaganda makes bad films,” emphasizing that storytelling should serve the narrative, not an agenda. Lonergan's sentiments echo the words of Quentin Tarantino, who described the past decade as “the worst time ever for movies,” highlighting a growing concern among filmmakers and audiences.
The problem, as Lonergan sees it, is not the presence of political themes but the heavy-handed delivery of these messages. He argues that art should naturally engage with politics but in a way that doesn't overshadow the story itself. This overemphasis on ideology has also infiltrated film criticism, leading to reviews that prioritize political correctness over artistic merit.
However, there is a glimmer of hope. With increasing audience pushback, studios are beginning to reconsider their approach. Even Disney CEO Bob Iger recently acknowledged the need to “focus on entertaining, and not messages.” While it's unclear how this shift will play out, Lonergan's observations are a timely reminder of the importance of balancing message and narrative in filmmaking.
In these transformative times, the future of Hollywood cinema hangs in the balance. As audiences and creators navigate this complex landscape, the hope remains that great stories, free from the constraints of ideological mandates, will once again take center stage.
Do you believe that modern films have become too focused on delivering political messages at the expense of storytelling, or do you think it's essential for cinema to engage with contemporary issues? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Gangs of New York (directed by Kenneth Lonergan) Trailer:
