Why don't movies look like *movies* anymore?

#videoessay #cinematography #movies
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Remember when movies used to look good?

Rich shadows, bold colors, and depth. But now? A lot of films and shows look flat, dull, and lifeless. In this video, I break down why modern cinematography feels so uninspired, and it’s NOT digital’s fault. Let’s talk about dynamic range, lighting, and why intentional choices matter more than ever.

What you’ll learn:
• Why older movies look better than modern ones
• How dynamic range & contrast affect the cinematic look
• The role of VFX, lighting, and production design in the decline of movie aesthetics

James Mathieson clip from The Unscriptify Podcast.

Movies featured:
The Parent Trap
Superbad
Zodiac
WICKED
Se7en
The Killer

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