The Rise of Shorter Films in Hollywood: The Impact of Running Time on Audience Preference and Filmmaking Trends

With the recent releases of movies like Killers of the Flower Moon and Oppenheimer, it's hard to miss the fact that films are getting longer. Each year, the average length of movies increases by a few minutes. This year, the average running time of the 10 biggest releases was 139 minutes.

However, there seems to be a shift happening in the industry. The Marvels, which is the shortest film in MCU history, has a running time of only 105 minutes. This is quite a change from Marvel's previous blockbuster hit, Avengers: Endgame, which had a running time of 181 minutes.

Director Nia LaCosta made a conscious decision to keep The Marvels under two hours. In an interview, she stated, "I just feel like there's no need to make it long if you don't have to, because an hour and a half is pretty average for a film." Despite its short length, The Marvels had a high budget of around $220 million, making it the most expensive per minute film release with a running time of under two hours.

This year saw the release of two major films with relatively short running times. Barbie, which was highly anticipated, lasted 114 minutes. The Super Mario Bros.

movie also had a short running time of only 92 minutes. It will be interesting to see if more directors and studios follow this trend of shorter films in the future. Until then, audiences can continue to enjoy longer blockbusters.

The trend of longer films has been evident in recent years, with many directors opting for extended running times to fully develop their stories and characters. However, the success of shorter films like The Marvels and Barbie may signal a shift in audience preferences. In a world where attention spans are constantly decreasing, shorter films may be more appealing to viewers who are looking for a quick and entertaining experience.

The decision to make a film shorter or longer ultimately comes down to the director's vision and the story being told. Some films benefit from a longer running time, allowing for more intricate plot lines and character development. Others, like The Marvels, prove that a compelling story can be told in a shorter amount of time without sacrificing quality.

It's important for filmmakers to consider the impact of running time on their audience. While longer films can be immersive and engrossing, they also require a significant time commitment from viewers. Shorter films, on the other hand, are more accessible and can be enjoyed in a single sitting.

Finding the right balance between length and storytelling is crucial for creating a captivating cinematic experience.In the competitive world of filmmaking, the length of a movie can also impact its commercial success. Longer films may have limited screening times in theaters, while shorter films can have more showings and reach a wider audience.

This can be particularly important for smaller independent films looking to make a splash at the box office.As technology continues to advance and streaming platforms become increasingly popular, the way we consume films is evolving. Audiences now have more choices than ever when it comes to watching movies, and filmmakers must adapt to these changing viewing habits.

Shorter films may be more appealing to audiences who prefer to watch movies on-the-go or in shorter bursts.In Conclusion, the trend of shorter films in Hollywood is gaining traction, with recent releases like The Marvels and Barbie proving that quality storytelling can be achieved in a shorter amount of time. While longer films will always have their place in cinema, audiences may increasingly gravitate towards shorter, more concise storytelling in the future.

Filmmakers should continue to experiment with different running times to find the perfect balance that engages viewers and resonates with them long after the credits roll.