Films can be defined as documentaries that showcase a story, event, or thing
whether fiction or not. Most films produced are adaptations from books or novels
because they have succeeded in attracting readers' interest. However, there are
also films that are produced directly for the cinema and able to attract
audiences. The rapid development of technology and gadgets has made films an
entertainment that is enjoyed by all segments of society. In the past, people
had to go to the cinema to watch a movie, but now, movies can be watched
anywhere as long as they have access to the Internet and smartphones. Most
people in Malaysia prefer to watch international films compared to local films
because they provide more interesting and enjoyable stories. Therefore, it is
worthwhile to discuss the benefits that society members, whether in Malaysia or
other countries, will receive when watching international films. One of the
benefits that society will receive when watching international films is getting
to know the art and culture of foreign societies. For example, films in China
mostly include elements of their self-defense art in action genre movies.
Besides entertaining the audience with an interesting story and action, the film
can also promote the beauty of the art and culture they have. When local art and
culture can break down international barriers and be enjoyed by other nations,
it will add value to the appreciation of a nation's treasures. If we can see,
the self-defense art that is owned in the Southeast Asian region such as Silat
is not emphasized in the film industry because it does not get interesting
opportunities or treatments. But Silat has a place in the field of sports and is
competed at the international level. The effect is, watching international films
opens our eyes to the art or culture of other societies that are worthy of
recognition and appreciation so that they are not drowned in time.
As a society that has a first-class mind, watching international films can
help us learn new filmmaking techniques. It is generally known that the film
industry in the United States is the largest film industry in the world.
Therefore, every aspect of the film such as story processing, cinematography,
and the technology used is at its best level. To improve the ability of the
local film industry, filmmakers and society as viewers can learn and adapt it to
the domestic silver screen. In addition, international films also have various
variations and genres where, if observed from the right perspective, it can
provide new inspiration to local film directors and producers. In conclusion,
international films can help the technical development of local films and
society must act wisely by supporting the good and competitive initiatives of
the local film industry with other international films. As the Malay proverb
goes, only a jeweler knows the value of a gem.
Another benefit that society will gain when watching international films,
either in the cinema or via smartphones, is that the audience will be exposed to
the use of foreign languages. Language is the basis of communication between
humans and differs depending on the country or region in the world. When one
difference can be learned and understood, then the acceptance of opinions and
also unification can be linked. With the ease of subtitles that are commonly
provided for every film, we can watch it better and understand what the film is
trying to convey. If explored, various films that use their local language and
not English contain various elements of pure values embedded in their society.
For example, Indonesian films that highlight poetic elements and language.
In conclusion, watching international films can bring various benefits to
society members, such as getting to know the art and culture of foreign
societies, learning new filmmaking techniques, and being exposed to the use of
foreign languages. Therefore, society should be open and receptive to watching
films from various countries as it is not only an entertainment but also an
opportunity for self-improvement |