Cinema, since its inception, has not only entertained but also profoundly influenced the way society thinks, behaves, and evolves. More than just a form of artistic expression, movies act as both mirrors and creators of cultural norms. Through films, we see a reflection of the society we live in—its values, aspirations, struggles, and contradictions. At the same time, cinema shapes public opinion, challenges norms, and sometimes even pioneers social change by bringing new perspectives to the forefront. In this essay, we will explore how cinema both reflects and shapes cultural norms, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between movies and society.
Cinema as a Reflection of Society
One of cinema’s most significant roles is to reflect the cultural, political, and social dynamics of the time. Filmmakers often draw upon real-life issues, historical events, and contemporary concerns to craft stories that resonate with audiences. Through these narratives, movies offer a window into the world as it exists, capturing the complexities of human experience and society.
In the 1940s and 1950s, for example, American cinema was heavily influenced by the post-World War II era. Films such as Casablanca (1942) and It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) depicted the values of heroism, sacrifice, and the importance of community, reflecting the collective mood of a society recovering from global conflict. At the same time, film noir—a genre characterized by dark, cynical stories—emerged, reflecting the disillusionment and moral ambiguity that pervaded postwar America. Movies like Double Indemnity (1944) and The Maltese Falcon (1941) captured the anxieties and fears of a world facing an uncertain future.
Similarly, during the civil rights movements of the 1960s, films like Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967) and To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) addressed racial tensions and challenged the segregationist mindset prevalent in the United States. By showcasing interracial relationships and the injustices faced by African Americans, these films reflected a growing awareness of social inequality and contributed to the ongoing dialogue about race and civil rights.
In more recent times, movies have continued to mirror society’s issues. Films like Parasite (2019), a South Korean masterpiece, delve into themes of class disparity and inequality, reflecting the deep societal divides that resonate worldwide. The film’s portrayal of a family trying to escape poverty in a world stratified by wealth not only resonated with South Korean audiences but also struck a chord globally, reflecting growing concerns about economic inequality and social mobility.
Cinema’s Role in Shaping Cultural Norms
While cinema often reflects societal realities, it also has the power to shape them. Movies influence the way we see ourselves and others, often challenging existing cultural norms and presenting new ideas that can shift public perception and behavior. Filmmakers can use their art to push boundaries, challenge stereotypes, and encourage audiences to question their own beliefs and biases.
One of the most notable examples of cinema shaping societal norms is the way films have addressed gender roles and expectations. In the early 20th century, cinema often reinforced traditional gender roles, with women portrayed primarily as homemakers, love interests, or damsels in distress. However, as society began to challenge these gender norms, cinema followed suit. The rise of feminist movements in the 1960s and 1970s led to the emergence of strong, independent female characters in films like Alien (1979) with Ellen Ripley, played by Sigourney Weaver, as one of the earliest portrayals of a woman in a leadership role in a traditionally male-dominated genre.
More recently, films like Wonder Woman (2017) and Captain Marvel (2019) have continued this trend, offering audiences strong female protagonists who challenge the traditional portrayal of women in cinema. These films not only reflect the changing attitudes toward gender roles but also contribute to the shift in societal norms by presenting women as empowered, capable, and central to the narrative.
Similarly, cinema has played a key role in challenging and reshaping norms around sexuality and LGBTQ+ representation. In the early days of cinema, LGBTQ+ characters were often depicted in a negative or stereotypical light, if they were depicted at all. However, as societal attitudes toward sexuality began to shift, so too did the portrayal of LGBTQ+ individuals in film. Movies like Brokeback Mountain (2005), Call Me by Your Name (2017), and Moonlight (2016) brought LGBTQ+ stories into the mainstream, presenting nuanced, humanizing portrayals of love and identity. By doing so, these films helped to normalize LGBTQ+ experiences, challenging long-held prejudices and contributing to greater acceptance within society.
Cinema as a Tool for Social and Political Change
Beyond reflecting and shaping cultural norms, cinema has often been used as a tool for social and political activism. Filmmakers and storytellers recognize the power of cinema to engage audiences on an emotional level, making it a potent medium for raising awareness about social injustices and motivating change.
One of the most famous examples of this is the film The Battle of Algiers (1966), a docudrama depicting the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule. The film was so powerful and realistic that it was banned in France for years due to its portrayal of the brutality of colonialism and the resistance movement. It remains a landmark in political cinema, showcasing how film can be used to shine a light on oppressive systems and inspire revolution.
In the United States, films like 12 Years a Slave (2013) and Selma (2014) have been instrumental in bringing the history of slavery and civil rights struggles to a wider audience. By depicting the brutality of slavery and the courage of civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., these films not only educate viewers about historical injustices but also challenge contemporary issues of race and inequality.
Documentary films have also played a critical role in driving social change. Movies like An Inconvenient Truth (2006) brought the issue of climate change to the forefront of public consciousness, sparking conversations and advocacy around environmental issues. More recently, documentaries like 13th (2016) have explored the systemic racism embedded in the U.S. criminal justice system, contributing to the growing awareness and activism around issues like mass incarceration and police brutality.
The Global Impact of Cinema
Cinema’s ability to reflect and shape cultural norms is not limited to any one country or region. The global nature of film means that movies from different cultures can influence one another, contributing to a more interconnected world. Hollywood may dominate the global box office, but the rise of international cinema has brought diverse cultural perspectives to audiences around the world.
Bollywood, for instance, has had a profound influence on Indian society, with its films reflecting the country’s values, traditions, and social issues. Movies like Dangal (2016), which portrays the story of a father training his daughters to become world-class wrestlers, challenge traditional gender roles in India, promoting the idea that women can achieve greatness in fields traditionally dominated by men.
Meanwhile, the international success of films like Parasite and Roma (2018) has highlighted the universality of certain themes—class struggle, family dynamics, and economic disparity—while also offering insight into the specific cultural contexts in which these stories take place. The global reception of these films shows that cinema can transcend borders, fostering empathy and understanding across cultures.
