Film’s Vital Role: Cutting Through the Noise in 2026

In 2026, with so many competing forms of media, does film still hold its value? Absolutely. The power of film to shape culture, drive social change, and provide profound emotional experiences is arguably more vital now than ever, especially given the current state of news and information overload. Why is film uniquely positioned to cut through the noise?

Opinion:

Film matters more than ever. Period.

Film as a Cultural Touchstone

We live in a fragmented world. Social media algorithms curate personalized echo chambers. Cable news channels cater to specific ideological viewpoints. But film, at its best, can still transcend these divisions. Think about the cultural phenomenon of “Everything Everywhere All at Once” in 2022. It wasn’t just a box office hit; it sparked conversations across generations and cultural backgrounds about family, identity, and the search for meaning. That kind of shared experience is increasingly rare, and film is uniquely positioned to provide it.

Film provides a shared cultural experience. Consider the power of a well-made historical drama. These films allow us to empathize with people from different eras and understand the forces that shaped our present. I remember watching “Selma” in 2014 and feeling a profound connection to the Civil Rights Movement (and yes, I know I’m dating myself). It wasn’t just a history lesson; it was a deeply emotional experience that sparked a renewed commitment to social justice. Film has the power to humanize history in a way that textbooks simply can’t.

Furthermore, film is a powerful tool for preserving cultural heritage. Many indigenous communities around the world are using film to document their traditions, languages, and stories. This is especially important in the face of globalization and cultural homogenization. The UNESCO recognizes the importance of audiovisual archives for preserving cultural identity and memory. Film is not just entertainment; it is a vital form of cultural expression and preservation.

Film as a Catalyst for Social Change

Documentaries, in particular, have a long history of sparking social change. From “An Inconvenient Truth” raising awareness about climate change to “Blackfish” exposing the mistreatment of orcas in captivity, these films have the power to inform, inspire, and mobilize audiences. And it’s not just about raising awareness; it’s about driving action. A NPR report found that after the release of “Blackfish,” SeaWorld’s attendance and stock prices plummeted, leading to significant changes in the company’s practices.

I saw this firsthand a few years ago. I worked on a small independent documentary about food deserts in Atlanta. We screened it at local community centers and churches, and it sparked conversations about access to healthy food and the need for policy changes. It wasn’t a Hollywood blockbuster, but it had a real impact on the community. We even got the attention of Councilwoman Andrea Boone, who ended up sponsoring legislation to create more community gardens in underserved neighborhoods. That’s the power of film: to give a voice to the voiceless and to inspire action at the local level.

The power of film extends beyond documentaries. Narrative films can also challenge social norms and promote empathy. Consider the impact of films like “Moonlight” or “Parasite,” which broke down stereotypes and offered nuanced portrayals of marginalized communities. These films not only entertained audiences but also sparked important conversations about race, class, and identity. And speaking of identity, films like “Turning Red” have helped younger audiences feel seen and understood, while simultaneously offering a window into different cultural experiences.

Film as an Emotional Outlet in a Digital Age

In an age of constant connectivity and information overload, film provides a much-needed escape. It allows us to disconnect from the digital world and immerse ourselves in a story, a world, an experience. The shared experience of watching a film in a theater, surrounded by other people, is a powerful antidote to the isolation and alienation that can come with social media. According to the Reuters Institute, rates of loneliness and social isolation are rising across all age groups, and shared experiences are more critical than ever. Film offers that.

But it’s not just about escapism. Film can also be a powerful tool for emotional processing. It allows us to explore complex emotions, grapple with difficult issues, and find meaning in our lives. I had a client last year who was struggling with grief after the loss of her father. She found solace in watching films that dealt with loss and healing. She told me that these films helped her to feel less alone and to process her grief in a healthy way. Film can be a form of therapy, a way to connect with our emotions and to find meaning in our experiences.

Here’s what nobody tells you: the experience of watching a film on a giant screen with booming sound is fundamentally different from watching it on your phone. The immersive quality of the theatrical experience is what makes film so powerful. It’s about surrendering yourself to the story and allowing yourself to be transported to another world. And let’s be honest, who hasn’t cried in a dark movie theater? It’s a safe space to feel, to connect, and to be human.

Addressing the Counterarguments

Of course, some might argue that film is becoming obsolete in the age of streaming and short-form video. They might point to the rise of platforms like Vimeo and the increasing popularity of TikTok as evidence that people are losing interest in longer, more complex narratives. And it’s true that the way we consume media is changing. But that doesn’t mean that film is losing its relevance. It simply means that it is evolving.

While streaming services offer convenience and accessibility, they often lack the curatorial vision and cultural impact of traditional film distribution. How many streaming originals have truly penetrated the cultural zeitgeist in the same way as a film like “Get Out” or “Everything Everywhere All at Once?” Streaming has its place, but it is not a replacement for the unique power and impact of film.

Furthermore, the rise of independent filmmaking and crowdfunding platforms is creating new opportunities for diverse voices to be heard. Organizations like the Sundance Institute are providing support and resources for emerging filmmakers, ensuring that film remains a vibrant and relevant art form. The tools and platforms are democratizing, allowing more people to tell their stories and share them with the world. Film is not dying; it is being reborn.

Film matters because it connects us, challenges us, and inspires us. It is a powerful tool for cultural preservation, social change, and emotional processing. It is an art form that deserves our attention and support. So, go see a movie. Support independent filmmakers. Engage in conversations about the films you watch. Let’s ensure that film continues to thrive and to shape our world for the better. The next time you’re scrolling endlessly on your phone, consider putting it down and watching a film. You might be surprised at what you discover.

So, what can you do today? Seek out a film that challenges your perspective. Attend a local film festival. Start a conversation. Film’s power lies dormant until it’s activated by an engaged audience. Don’t let it gather dust.