What do you do when you're bored or hanging out with friends? Watching movies is probably one of your go-to choices. But have you ever wondered what movies bring beyond pure entertainment?
- Economic Powerhouse
Movies aren't just about captivating stories; they're vital for the economy. In the US, the movie industry employs over 2.4 million people. These jobs range from special effects wizards to makeup artists, writers, set builders, and even ticket sellers. Collectively, they earn an astonishing $186 billion in wages each year.
But there's more to it. When a movie or TV show films in a real location, it creates jobs, generates income, and helps local economies thrive. For instance, Marvel's "Black Panther" provided employment to more than 3,100 local workers in Georgia, earning over $26.5 million in wages. The popular TV series "This Is Us" contributed over $61.5 million to California's economy.
In New York, Oscar-nominated films like "The Post" and "The Greatest Showman" added over $108 million to the state's local economy. It's like a booster shot for communities, injecting a whopping $21 billion annually into over 260,000 businesses across cities and small towns, with most of these businesses being small and employing fewer than 10 people. - Powerful Messages
Movies are not just for entertainment; they're also storytellers with a profound message. Consider the classic movie "Forrest Gump." Beyond its heartwarming story, it imparts essential life lessons: appreciate life, maintain optimism, savour every moment, and embrace new experiences. It's like a friendly nudge that leaves a lasting impact.
- Educational Marvels
Movies can be both educational and contribute to science. Take the mind-bending sci-fi movie "Interstellar" as an example. It didn't rely solely on imagination; it consulted experts like astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson and former NASA scientist Kip Thorne to ensure scientific accuracy. But that's not all. The movie's team, along with physicist Kip Thorne, created incredibly detailed images of black holes. These images provided fresh insights into these cosmic mysteries and even led to the publication of two scientific papers. Movies can be a bridge between fiction and real scientific exploration.
Movies offer more than just popcorn and entertainment; they're a potent force with hidden talents. Stay tuned for more insights into the captivating world of movies. If you dream of being part of this dynamic industry, UNIJI's Entertainment and Creative Industry program might be your gateway. Contact our counsellors to learn more about entering the mesmerizing world of movies through UNIJI!
Sources: motionpictures.org, screenrant.com
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