By Jewel Ken-Giami
We often walk into a cinema seeking nothing more than an escape—a bucket of popcorn and two hours of distraction. Yet film is far more than mere entertainment; it is a powerful force that shapes our perception of reality. It can dismantle long-held prejudices, reconstruct cultural identities, and influence how we understand the world. From the historical figures we admire to the social injustices we finally acknowledge, the silver screen serves as a subtle but influential teacher. This article explores that influence and examines why the creators behind the lens carry such profound responsibility in our modern age.
Many people view cinema as a form of passive entertainment. In reality, filmmakers are key architects of our shared consciousness. They do more than entertain—they shape how we see ourselves and how the world sees us. Consider Black Panther. It was not just a box-office success; it marked a powerful reclamation of African heritage, innovation, and identity. By replacing repetitive narratives of struggle with a bold vision of excellence, the film inspired pride in audiences across the globe. This is a mission I hold close to my heart. As an aspiring director, I believe film has the power to tell authentic stories that celebrate diverse cultures and foster a sense of belonging.
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Beyond visual appeal, filmmakers use their craft to build deep emotional connections with audiences. Cinema is not simply a pastime—it is influence in motion. When the lights dim and the screen comes alive, we are not just spectators; we become students of the human experience. Films shape our empathy, guide our understanding of whose voices matter, and highlight the injustices that demand attention. From historical dramas that confront collective trauma to documentaries that expose hidden truths, cinema can transform private emotions into collective action. For this reason, filmmaking is more than a profession—it is a responsibility. Coming from a lineage of creators, I have seen how art can drive progress and inspire change. I believe cinema should not merely distract, but awaken. My goal is to create stories that move audiences not only emotionally, but intellectually—encouraging reflection, dialogue, and action.
Another reason films hold such power is simple: we absorb what we watch, often without realising it. There is truth in the saying, “you are what you consume.” When films glorify certain behaviours, they can blur the line between right and wrong, making harmful actions seem clever or admirable. Take the popular French Netflix series Lupin, for example. The show follows a charismatic con artist who executes elaborate robberies, often evading consequences for much of the storyline. While entertaining, the rise of copycat crimes inspired by such portrayals raises an important question: are we merely entertained, or are we being influenced? This is not to suggest that films should lose their excitement, but it highlights the responsibility that comes with storytelling. Film does not just reflect society—it shapes it. That power must be handled with care.
Too often, we leave the cinema thinking only about the actors or the storyline. Yet it is the creators—the directors, writers, and visionaries—who truly shape these experiences. They build the worlds we escape into, evoke emotions we struggle to express, and challenge perspectives we may not even realise we hold. Their impact goes beyond box office figures or awards. It is seen in the way a single scene can shift someone’s worldview, or how a story can make an individual feel recognised and understood. Filmmakers do not simply create movies; they shape how we see our lives and the world around us.
The next time the credits roll, take a moment to notice the names on the screen. These are the individuals who have not just told a story—they have influenced the way you see the world.
Jewel Ken-Giami is a Year 11 student, aged 16 at the time of writing. She aspires to work in the film industry behind the lens, with interests in directing, producing, and screenwriting.
