Ep 5. Post-War Cinema

In episode 5 of The Story of Film: An Odyssey, titled "Post-War Cinema," the focus shifts to the cinematic world after the end of World War II. The episode explores how filmmakers approached the challenges of crafting stories in the aftermath of such a catastrophic event and how they grappled with the moral complexities of the war itself.

One of the notable changes in post-war cinema was the emergence of the neorealist movement in Italy. Directors such as Vittorio De Sica and Roberto Rossellini rejected Hollywood-style glamour and instead opted for stark, minimalist depictions of everyday life. They eschewed polished performances in favor of amateur actors and real locations, leading some critics to accuse them of creating "non-films." However, their films had a profound impact on the future of European cinema, and their techniques continue to influence filmmakers today.

The documentary explores how other countries responded to the devastation of World War II through their films. In Japan, filmmakers like Yasujiro Ozu grappled with the traumas of the war and its aftermath, crafting stories that examined the changing role of families in the face of modernization. Meanwhile, in Germany, directors such as Wim Wenders and Werner Herzog looked inward, exploring their country's history and the guilt and shame that came with it.

The episode also examines Hollywood's post-war offerings, which contrasted with the gritty and realistic approach of their European counterparts. Films like Sunset Boulevard and All About Eve captured the opulence and glamour of Hollywood's golden age, but they also explored the dark side of show business. Meanwhile, animated films from the likes of Walt Disney Studios and Warner Bros. provided a sense of escapism for audiences still coming to grips with the horrors of the war.

Throughout the episode, filmmaker and narrator Mark Cousins ties these disparate threads together through his analysis of key films and interviews with experts. He emphasizes how the rise of television in the 1950s forced filmmakers to confront new challenges, such as shorter attention spans and the need for bigger, more bombastic productions. The episode highlights the lasting impact of these mid-century films, many of which set the stage for the storytelling techniques and visual styles that we see in modern cinema.

"Post-War Cinema" is a fascinating exploration of how filmmakers around the world responded to the challenges of the post-war era. The episode is rich with film clips and interviews, providing a comprehensive look at the ways in which cinema evolved during a period of profound change and upheaval. Whether you're a film history buff or simply a lover of great stories, this episode of The Story of Film: An Odyssey is essential viewing.