The recent rerelease of Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy highlights both the lasting appeal of J.R.R. Tolkien’s vision and a notable void in modern filmmaking. The trilogy, which began with “The Fellowship of the Ring” in 2001, generated significant box office success, amassing over $900 million alone. This remarkable achievement contrasts starkly with the rapidly changing landscape of Hollywood today.
Rereleasing films is not a new concept; it has historic roots in cinema, with beloved classics like “The Wizard of Oz” and “Gone with the Wind” making their rounds in theaters long after their initial premieres. Popularity often leads studios back to these nostalgic treasures. Recent advancements in technology, such as IMAX and digital restoration, have made these rereleases more appealing than ever.
However, despite the surge in film production—between 200 and 300 titles released annually—many movies struggle to leave a lasting impression. Audience sentiment aligns with data from the Internet Movie Database, which shows the majority of the worst films produced this century, while only a handful of modern movies join the ranks of the best. Remarkably, two of these standout films are from the “Lord of the Rings” series.
A key concern arises when analyzing the types of films being produced today. Studios increasingly lean toward creating content that many viewers find offensive rather than wholesome family entertainment, which historically pulls audiences in. The prevalence of dark themes, excessive profanity, and gratuitous violence reflects a growing disconnect between what studios make and what older films reveal about audience preferences.
Looking back, family movies dominate the list of the highest-grossing films, with titles like “Gone with the Wind,” “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” leading the charge. Notably absent are R-rated films. The question arises: why are studios not investing more in content that resonates positively with families? Parents eager for uplifting and wholesome films are left wanting, as demonstrated by the growing interest in productions that align with family values.
Reflecting on Hollywood’s landscape reveals not only market trends but also the moral compass of those in charge of storytelling. One example is the legacy of Lewis R. Foster, who penned the classic “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.” This film exemplified the potential for cinema to shape character, inspire morality, and positively influence society. It serves as a reminder of the type of stories that once flourished in Hollywood and provided audiences with values worth admiring.
Cultural narratives often inform societal values, a point emphasized by the Apostle Paul in his call to focus on content that embodies virtues such as truth, kindness, and integrity. Even without films, his admonition underscores the significance of what we consume in shaping thoughts and actions.
The admirable qualities embodied in Tolkien’s works—hope, friendship, and the battle against darkness—should inspire contemporary creators. In light of the financial successes and cultural impact of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, Hollywood would do well to rediscover the art of crafting stories that not only entertain but also enrich and uplift the human spirit. Emulating the values found in Tolkien’s narratives could lead to a renaissance of meaningful cinema that resonates with audiences of all ages.
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