Truman London Cinema VS American Cinema

Truman Hooker 7/2/2012 Differences of London Cinemas VS American Cinemas After going to the British Film Institute, I realized the vast differences between an American cinema and a real world cinema. I noticed the obvious ones fairly quickly, but it was not until after the film that I realized how unique and creative a theatre could be. Most American cinemas are created solely for the projected large profits that will be generated from the films. It seems that the films being played at the British Film Institute are chosen because of their creativity and cultural diversity. The Cinema wants to promote and showcase films they are proud of and passionate about. I think the overemphasis on large profits in the American Cinemas has caused a reduction in artistic quality and creative visions of films. The Film Institute is not afraid to showcase a film that will catch the audience offgaurd or make them uncomfortable. The overall environment surrounding the film was also different than the theatres in America. I felt that there was more structure and coordination, because there was assigned seating and a no late entry policy. However, the theatre felt more social than an average American Cinema, because of the size of the theatre and that alcohol was allowed into the theater. Since it was much smaller than an average American theatre, I felt that this gave the audience a more personable feel to the film. It was easier to engage with the rest of the audience and react with the film. It also seemed that the audience in London and other countries are more open-minded to the different types of films. Most Americans only want to see the films with the celebrity actors, famous directors, and recognized studios. The American theatres also tend to primarily showcase these large films. Instead of always chasing after the profits, I think that it is more important for the filmmaker to work on projects that they are truly passionate about. It is unfortunate that the audiences in America rather attend a cinema that is playing the high budget “blockbuster” films, rather than a film like, “The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie”. In London, I felt that the opposite had occurred. The audience seemed excited to see this film, because they knew it was an artistic film, filled with dynamic characters and important messages. While everyone attends a theatre to be entertained, not everyone perceives the cinema as an art form. People here are more aware and informed of their culture, and they want to preserve this and their individuality.