Ever wonder just how many movies Hollywood throws at us each year? It feels like a never-ending stream, right? Like you're constantly battling to keep up with the new releases.
The answer, surprisingly, is kinda fuzzy. It depends on what you even count as a movie. Is it only the big blockbusters? Or does that indie film playing in that one tiny theater also count?
So, What's the Number?
Officially, the number fluctuates. Some years it's around 700-800 films released theatrically in the U.S. alone. That's a lot of popcorn!
But that number doesn’t include streaming exclusives. Think of all those Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime originals. Suddenly, the movie landscape feels much, much bigger.
We’re talking hundreds more! It's like trying to count grains of sand on a beach. Good luck with that!
The Streaming Surge
Streaming services have completely changed the game. They're churning out content like nobody's business. Are they all *good*? Well, that's a whole other discussion.
It's definitely upped the competition. Now, films are vying for your attention not just on the big screen, but also on your phone, tablet, and smart TV.
This also makes you wonder how many get lost? How many incredible movies get buried under the pile of streaming shows and movies?
My Unpopular Opinion
Here's where I get controversial. I think we actually get too many movies. Hear me out!
It's overwhelming! There’s almost no time to savor the good ones. We are constantly being pushed toward the next big thing.
Remember those movies you watched over and over again growing up? With so much new stuff, it's harder to create those lasting memories.
Quality vs. Quantity?
Does more movies automatically mean better movies? I personally don't think so. Sometimes, it feels like quantity is prioritized over quality.
Rushing movies to market to meet demand isn't always the best idea. Remember that one movie you anticipated for years but it flopped? Yeah, those happen too.
Wouldn't it be better to have fewer, but genuinely amazing, cinematic experiences? Maybe it's just me dreaming.
What Can We Do?
Honestly? Not much. The movie machine will keep churning. But we can be more selective.
Read reviews! Talk to friends! Don't just blindly jump on the hype train. Seek out smaller, independent films. Support the filmmakers who are taking risks.
And most importantly, don't feel bad if you haven't seen every movie that comes out. It's simply impossible. Just enjoy the ones you do watch!
Ultimately, cinema should be enjoyed. Not become some sort of FOMO-inducing challenge.
So, the next time someone asks you if you've seen the latest blockbuster, it's okay to say no. Maybe you were busy re-watching a classic. Or maybe you were just... living your life.
And that's perfectly fine.
