Movies have a unique ability to bring stories to life. The very best directors and scriptwriters can create compelling stories for audiences to be immersed in and engaged with, allowing them to experience several emotions.
There have been instances where stories were first created as part of a game and later adapted into movies. In the same way, many films have been turned into games, highlighting just how versatile and integratable this form of media is.
Still, some will argue that there is nothing better than a true story. They can be unbelievable at times in terms of what happens, making for extremely unique experiences that can evoke emotions in individuals that other ideas may not have the ability to create. When thinking about true stories, sometimes local ones can truly captivate audiences and create incredible viewing experiences for the rest of the world.
Famous local stories that are enjoyed worldwide
Films based on true local stories that reached global audiences often combine authentic culture with universal themes or exceptional events, achieving widespread impact. These can evoke thought and awareness in audiences, as they may have been previously unaware or uninformed about the daily lives of others.
A notable example may be “Slumdog Millionaire”. Although the film isn’t a true story in exact terms, it tells one based on the experiences of residents in Mumbai, India. Released in 2008, it shone a light on India’s social realities, revealing to the millions who watched it worldwide just how tough it is for many of the country’s people who live in this region.
Another example that used film as a means of bringing the reality of how difficult a certain demographic was living is ‘City of God.’ Released in 2002, this film was based on the favelas where people lived in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro. The movie is based on real events and exposes the harsh realities of urban life, prompting people to take note of how many residents live within a region known for its spectacular landmarks, such as Copacabana Beach and the Christ the Redeemer statue
‘Schindler’s List’ is perhaps one of the world’s most famous examples of a film based on true events that truly shocked those who had watched it. Directed by Steven Spielberg, his portrayal of Oskar Schindler, who saved hundreds during the Holocaust during the Second World War, stands as one of the most significant global renditions of a locally rooted true story.
Why have local stories become global?
Cinema has become a powerful platform for directors and writers to share messages with global audiences. Global cinema allows them to create a message that they feel needs to be shared with the rest of the world, helping to create and spread awareness of certain things or specific issues that may not be otherwise known.
With so much going on in the world, many may face two different types of problems: those that share a common theme (such as poverty) and others that are more local to them (like health crises).
With movies being a hugely popular form of entertainment for many and the availability of streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, film has become more accessible than ever. Users can watch whenever they want, using on-demand features; they are no longer confined to cinema showtimes.
Audiences have become increasingly more inquisitive about the wider world and what’s happening. They want to be informed about the latest developments, while also becoming more knowledgeable about the diverse cultures enjoyed worldwide. With film being more global and barriers becoming less restrictive, it’s becoming easier to produce local stories and showcase them to audiences across the world.
Are local stories a niche to explore?
Sometimes, it can feel that many of the latest blockbusters released in the cinema follow the same formula. Action films are often repeated in some aspects, as are horror films. It can be hard to find originality with many titles.
Using local stories, an element of originality can be created. Audiences are faced with less predictability as they are unlikely to have witnessed something similar, which may help to keep them engaged and invested in the film. Audiences are often more engaged with films rooted in original, local stories that feel authentic and true.
While many movie-goers have their preferences and like to watch the same genre or themes often, many more are consistently looking for new viewing experiences that offer something unique. Local stories can offer this, hence why films like those mentioned above went on to be incredibly successful; the bonus was that they helped to expose local issues that much of the rest of the world was blissfully unaware of.
