The movie industry is powering towards a new era fuelled by technological advancements and shifting stances in emerging cinematic markets.
From exotic film locations springing up in newly developed desert resorts to blending virtual and real-world experiences in theatres, movies are on the cusp of a fascinating new era.
Resort Development in the Middle East
The tourism and entertainment sector in the Middle East has experienced significant growth, so it’s unsurprising that it has become one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are pioneers of the surge. Their efforts to open up multiple income streams have led them to pour billions of dollars into creating high-end resorts.
These destinations are not only attracting a wave of tourists to become tourist destinations but are slowly garnering attention from filmmakers.
The Saudis’ futuristic Neom resort blends technology and nature in a way that’s straight out of a sci-fi movie, making it an ideal spot for a movie set.
The UAE is also turning heads with its expansive Wynn Resorts project, which would make for a jaw-dropping movie setting when it is completed.
The resort will house the first-ever land-based casino in the UAE, paving the way for several forms of gambling, and it could make an appearance in a major movie.
Some of the best online casinos in UAE have generated massive interest in gaming in the region, and film producers could capitalise on this by creating movies around the subject.
Investment Streaming Services is Booming
Streaming platforms have taken a firm grip on the movie industry, completely revamping how people watch movies, and they’ve shown no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Platforms such as Netflix and DIsney+ have given people a more convenient way to watch movies that don’t involve leaving the comfort of their homes to visit a theatre.
These cinematic moments were once only enjoyed in picture houses, but they’ve now found new homes in our living rooms and on mobile devices, reaching a global audience at the click of a button.
Streaming services now focus on diversifying their offerings to increase viewership and loyal audiences. Their libraries feature a range of contents that celebrate underrepresented groups, LGBTQIA+ characters, Spanish-speaking productions and more.
Original content has also become a key factor in setting these platforms apart. The major players are investing heavily to offer unique shows to their audiences.
Their investments aren’t necessarily to compete with each other – they’re more interested in keeping their fan bases satisfied.
Film Scores and Soundtracks Take Centre Stage
Music has always been a very powerful storytelling tool in the movie industry. Film scores and soundtracks have been the backbone of movies and this trend will play an even bigger role in the future.
Film scores are original pieces composed just for a specific movie. They are often meant to capture the essence of characters, themes or the overall story.
These film scores are carefully designed to match the pace and feel of the movie, adding emotional layers that improve the viewer’s experience.
Soundtracks use pre-existing songs that filmmakers place in scenes to invoke certain familiar emotions or highlight specific themes.
The songs always add context to the narrative of the movie, allowing viewers to connect to a specific mood or setting in the story.
Over the years, film scores and soundtracks have been crucial facets of the movie industry and it is hard to see that changing in the near future.
Music directors work closely with their counterparts in the movie scene to decide where each film score or soundtrack fits best in a movie.
Songwriters are also in the mix, with all three parties focused on choosing specific moments of the movie that align with the director’s vision and improve the overall story.