What are some of the things that make a movie "great"?

Question

Zack-Bann · Accepted Answer

There’s value in the details.
Music, color palette, pacing, dialogue tonality

But I think what truly makes or breaks a movie is the “weight” of the story and how relatable it is or how well it reflects on certain real life concepts

It’s very similar to what makes a good book

When a movie is very cut and dry, telling surface level stories with not much meaning it doesn’t matter how well it is shot it will be boring

But sometimes a movie that might seem silly at first could become a cult classic just for telling a truly compelling story
For example: Cars
A movie about a talking car seems stupid at first
But it’s a deep story about perseverance and challenging one’s self and humility through hardship, and the importance of friendships…
All told in a very digestible way.
Result: a classic.

And I can give examples from every category and genre of movies

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

The only thing that makes a movie great is a transformational character who is relatable to the audience and, more importantly, the reader, because otherwise the movie would never get made. It's the only part of the movie that stays with them. Look at ever single movie from the past 125 years and you will see this is the formula.

4ngelic · Accepted Answer

high quality acting, good production, aesthetic visuals, good soundtrack, attractive actors (unless it would make the movie uncredible), high emotion, good pacing, compelling narrative

Cinematic Lily · Accepted Answer

A great movie captivates its audience through a compelling story, strong character development, and excellent performances. A well-crafted script with engaging dialogue adds depth, while direction, cinematography, and visual effects create a mesmerizing experience. Evocative music and sound elevate emotion, while innovative themes and originality set a movie apart from the rest, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. 🎬✨

Gobbyjobby52 · Answer

When a an elder teacher archetype tells the protagonist "X your a x kid, you need to try harder though because having x isn't enough on its own", messages that hit close to home really, some people like living through the character and im guilty of this. Lots of jokes at the right time and not for the sake of it like maybe in dark humoured cartoons, it spoils the grand feeling of the movie for me because the movie feels mean spirited. A real character growth, what comes to mind is movies like kung fu panda, the three musketeers.

HawkPerception · Answer

A clear plot direction, some action, psychological aspects, maybe a little romance tossed in if it makes sense (not to add it if it becomes distasteful), mystery, and most of all... great acting. You should be able to feel the emotion from the actors and genuinely believe they aren't acting, but it's actually who they are. You can't be fully immersed in a movie if you're thinking they're acting it out. Here's an example of incredible acting...

Massageman · Answer

Producers and casting directors who know which actors are suited for each role. Writers who know how to craft a story to take advantage of these choices. Cinematographers who know how to bring the whole thing to life. Editors who know how to fine-tune that whole thing.

aaron13547 · Answer

Symbolism... I really watching movies i can relate to and see myself in a character, or relation to what I'm going through in real life. Be be able to relate to it makes it great to me

Nikki1989 · Answer

In a masterpiece, there is no padding. Every prop, extra, and line of dialogue serves the story or theme.

Screenwriter · Answer

Great story, pacing, fine actors, which means good direction. Great photography and music are icing on that cake.

DryGermanGuy · Answer

A unique or at least semi-unique story and great acting in my preferred genres.

Shiprex · Answer

Memorably lines and exciting scenes along with a well performed story.

AngryCarl2 · Answer

An outstanding script, superb acting, masterful directing. And some synergy I can't quite put my finger on.

Xawyx-2 · Answer

Interesting story, likable characters, nice special effects.

LiamJHayden · Answer

Acting where I forget that the actor or actress is just playing a part.

msc545 · Answer

A great story, great cinematography, and excellent production values.

elizamichale1 · Answer

A lot of suspense n thrill n sex

Phoenix98 · Answer

Good writing and storytelling.

TonyMetal___86 · Answer

The story and the suspence in it...

Staximus · Answer

You forget to get up for snacks

beefcakebradybatson · Answer

At least one buxom blonde !!!

SmokyEnrique · Answer

Mystery, suspense, new story

Zionne · Answer

the plot

What are some of the things that make a movie "great"?

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