German Civilization(New German Cinema) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

German Civilization(New German Cinema) - Essay Example After the World War II, German film industry was in great turmoil due to the division of Germany wherein many people got separated from their families. Most films in 1950s were characterized as ‘escapist’ entertainment by critics because they shied away to address contemporary issues although they remained popular among German audience. However, with the advent of television box-office collection of such films began falling drastically and cinemas began to close. At the beginning of 1960s, German film industry became not only economically vulnerable due to lack of creative and artistic touch but was struggling for its survival. That is evident from the fact that in 1961, none of the German film got entry at the prestigious Venice Film Festival. That was also the time when the German market was largely in control of Hollywood movies. Film industry, especially young and talented film makers greatly needed financial support without which it was impossible for them to either make films or compete with Hollywood films in German market due to latter’s financial strength. The German governments support in this respect providing financial stability to the New German Cinema came very handy. Many makers of the New German Cinema also collaborated with the German TV. This is in sharp contrast with Hollywood movies where they compete with local TV for audience. The German governments support to the New Cinema through tax reliefs and bank credits made it possible for young makers to produce some of the great movies. Thus, the New German Cinema not only survived on government funding and support but prospered too – to be touted as National Cinema. Many films in The New German Cinema ran packed houses around the world. In ot her words, it helped made the national cinema popular internationally. The Oberhausen Manifesto is known as the beginning of the New German Cinema. Films made during this era made a clear departure from traditional cinema –