The Underexplored Synergy: Cinema as an Ally to the World Wars
Dharun Manikandan Srinivasan
Dharun Manikandan Srinivasan, Department of Visual Communications, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai (Tamil Nadu) India.
Manuscript received on 02 August 2024 | Revised Manuscript received on 14 August 2024 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 September 2024 | Manuscript published on 30 September 2024 | PP: 20-26 | Volume-4 Issue-1, September 2024 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijmcj.E108503050924 | DOI:10.54105/ijmcj.E1085.04010924
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© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: This research examines the connection between the Great Wars and Cinema, exploring how these major conflicts influenced and were in turn influenced by the film industry. Beginning with an introduction to the causes and triggers of the wars, it traces the evolution of cinema from the pre-war era through the changes brought by the wars. The study focuses on the interdependent relationship between War and Cinema, highlighting how major participating countries used films for propaganda, morale-boosting, and ideological dissemination. As cinema became a dominant art form in the entertainment industry, it had significant socio-economic impacts, influencing national economies and public sentiment. The study also explores the emergence of “German Expressionism,” a film technique that developed in response to the societal trauma of the wars and had a profound impact on modern cinema. This movement’s distinctive visual style and thematic depth continue to influence filmmakers to this day. Additionally, the study examines the perspectives of civilians and soldiers on cinema during wartime periods, revealing how films serve as both an escape and a reflection of reality. Through various case studies, the study illustrates cinema’s role in shaping and reflecting the collective consciousness during these pivotal historical moments. This exploration provides valuable insights into how the Great Wars transformed the cinematic landscape and left a lasting cultural legacy.
Keywords: World War, War Films, Media influence, German Expressionism, Cinema
Scope of the Article: Media Influence