Our culture consists of a multitude of various metaphoric bandwagons that adapts/evolves approximately every 3-10 years...depending on what band is filling what wagon. And how finicky said band is. An illustration of what I mean by this is exemplified within the blockbuster bandwagon. One of my favorites.
With a spectacular script in tow (uh-heyuck!), a 1996 blockbuster by the name of 'Twister' changed the direction of movie making to focus more on the grumpier side of mother nature. From Dante's Peak to Deep Impact, humanity seemed doomed about 3 times every summer for the next eight years. Until along came the 2004 trump card.
The producers of 'The Day After Tomorrow' looked at all the other disaster movies that came before and simply stated..."I smell a stew!" Thus was born natural disaster's amalgamate behemoth-child. With its continent wide super-hurricanes, acne-like breakout of tornadoes, and sky scraper size tidal waves, 'TDAT' effectively slammed the movie industry gears into reverse.
Seeing as the disaster genre had been beaten into a bloody, lifeless, pulp, the movie goers of America had already started repainting the Hollywood bandwagon with a large 'Marvel' logo. Arguably kicked off with the 2000, mutant-infused 'X-Men', the modern super drama had arrived. While not limited by the disaster genres content options, the super hero lineup is in full swing today with and doesn't show any signs of stopping any time soon. In fact, with movies like 'Watchmen' and 'The Spirit', the array of styles and original approaches seems to know no bounds.
Bolstered by cutting edge special effects and a gravitas pull on acting talent, we already see a multiplicity of sequels, prequels, trilogies, and originals coming down the pipe over the next few years. Films that are likely to both delight and disappoint, but inevitably entertain us as we reflect upon our mundane lives. Now all they need to do is make a Thundercats movie...oh wait!
