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Introduction to Global Cinema

Author: Martin-Jones and Dina LordanovaSource: Cinema at the Fringe Global by Wayne State University Press, 2010.

Observations on Global Cinema (Pages 1-9)

Diverse Cinema Experiences Abroad

• Travel Experience (2007-2008): The authors undertook an extensive journey across various countries to immerse themselves in local cinema cultures.

• Sofia, Bulgaria: The cinema scene is predominantly filled with Hollywood films, reflecting a lack of local film production and a heavy reliance on American cinema for entertainment.

• Variability in Other Cities:

  • Paris: Home to the local hit Welcome to the Sticks, which indicates a strong domestic film presence alongside international offerings.

  • Tokyo: Japan's cinematic landscape is highlighted by blockbusters like Hero and Always, showcasing the global influence of Japanese films.

  • Thessaloniki: The historical and artistic film El Greco leads the local box office, emphasizing Greece's rich cultural storytelling.

  • Hong Kong: Ang Lee’s Lust, Caution features prominently, showcasing Hong Kong's notable contributions to global cinema.

  • Copenhagen: Shown was Ken Loach's film It's a Free World, reflecting the acceptability of socially conscious themes in local theaters.

  • Berlin: Specialized cinemas exemplify the diverse offerings in the city by showcasing films like Tuya's Marriage and The Red Elvis.

A Flawed Understanding of World Cinema

• The prevalent perspective divides the cinema landscape into two categories:

  • Hollywood: Often perceived as strong, dominant, and all-encompassing.

  • Rest of the World: Regarded as weak and diminishing, which undermines the rich tapestry of international cinema.

• Call for Change: There is a strong advocacy for incorporating a peripheral vision in film studies to reflect on the vibrancy and significance of non-Hollywood cinema.

  • Emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse cinema through extensive global studies rather than the narrow confines of American-centric discourse.

  • The push is towards a more engaged and inclusive approach to film studies, recognizing the myriad voices in global cinema.

Effects of Other Routes in Global Cinema

• The need to reassess existing assumptions surrounding film strength, distribution, and accessibility is paramount in a globalized society.

• Highlighting the emergence of various cinema traditions around the globe, the text urges researchers and film scholars to pay attention to local productions and their impacts in different regions.

  • This includes recognizing independent film movements, regional narratives, and the contributions of diaspora filmmakers that expand the global cinema landscape.

• A broader understanding can facilitate richer conversations around global film, decoding how local and global influences intermingle within the cinematic experience.