Of greater significance is that it is one of the most boring pictures of all time, saved only by the endless violence and warp speed movement. And yet, such is its acclaim that it ultimately changes tastes, and has an effect on all movie making. Acknowledging that the survey is unscientific and subject to easy abuse, the respondents sent the new Lucas film to the top of the list. That is a very revealing observation, because it points up the fact that the story line is not even slightly important in the overall impact of the film. What counts is the visual action, which needs no translation.
Violence is violence in every language, in every culture, and violence sells.
Some assert, in fact, that the real reason Hollywood films are increasingly violent is that violent films play well in foreign markets, and foreign markets provide an increasing percentage of profits for the film industry. I offer an opinion. In an earlier life, I was in charge of programming at the biggest independent television station in America - and thus the world. I was involved in the purchase of broadcast rights of properties made by the Hollywood studios. I must tell you that while the studios are very good a making movies and television programs, that talent is nothing compared to the talent they have for creating instant friendships that seems to have lasted for years, and which seem likely to go on forever.