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The Bulwark ·Future-gazing

Hollywood’s About to Change (Again)

by Sonny Bunch

Published 2026-05-29 19:38:12+00:00

When does a new generation decide what movies are supposed to be?

0:00 / 8:48 · Narrator Charon

Context

Hollywood is always changing, but this piece from The Bulwark suggests we’re in another fascinating 'hinge moment' right now. It playfully wonders if we're seeing a repeat of the 1960s, as a new wave of young, YouTube-native filmmakers are suddenly drawing Gen Z back to theaters in surprising numbers. It’s less about whether cinema is 'dying,' and more about what kind of stories, and what kind of experiences, this new generation is craving on the big screen, and what that means for everyone else.

Show notes

The piece examines a potential new turning point for Hollywood, marked by the unexpected box office success of films from YouTube-native creators resonating with Gen Z audiences. It draws comparisons to previous industry shifts, like those in the 1960s and 70s, and considers the enduring appeal of theatrical horror and the niche market for physical media.

Read on The Bulwark →