One of many largest points going through Hollywood has been the concept that younger individuals are not driving as a lot viewership in terms of motion pictures and TV. We have been on this fixed battle of determining methods to get these folks to theatres or tuning of their TV units. It is hectic!
But it surely may be time for a deep breath.
A brand new examine is right here to bust the largest delusion in media. It seems “youngsters as of late” are nonetheless very a lot watching—and discussing—motion pictures and TV exhibits.
A 2025 examine from UCLA’s Middle for Students and Storytellers, the place they surveyed 1,500 folks aged 10-24, discovered that 57% stated they watch conventional TV and films, extra than older generations suppose they do.
That implies that the narrative that Gen Z and Gen Alpha aren’t watching TV and films is flawed.
Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways for Filmmakers From The Examine
As filmmakers, we’re continuously attempting to crack methods to get extra folks into the theaters or renting our stuff. So after I see a examine like this, I believe it is time for us to concentrate and see how we will use it to play into our strengths.
The examine offers us clear information on what younger audiences need and how they discover it.
1. Motion pictures Are Nonetheless a Social Occasion
That is the massive one. When requested what they talk about with buddies, 53% of younger viewers stated they discuss TV exhibits and films. Solely 18.6% stated they talk about social media.
Even higher? After they get collectively, they’re twice as seemingly to decide on a film (31.2%) over watching social media (15.6%).
Filmmaker Lesson: The shared expertise is alive and nicely. Younger audiences are actively looking for out content material they’ll watch collectively and, extra importantly, discuss afterward.
2. “Authenticity” Is not Only a Buzzword
When requested what qualities they search for in a narrative, “relatable tales” was the #1 reply. This beat out fantasy, real-world points, and aspirational tales in regards to the wealthy and well-known.
They need tales that really feel actual to them.
- 59.7% stated they need extra content material about friendships.
- 60.9% need romantic tales that target the connection and friendship between a pair, not simply on intercourse.
Filmmaker Lesson: Concentrate on the human factor of each screenplay you write. Genuine, relatable relationships are what’s going to make your movie resonate.
3. The Smartphone Nonetheless Issues
Here is the massive caveat you knew was coming. Whereas they’re watching, how they watch has essentially modified.
- Almost half stated they largely watch on a private gadget (cellphone or laptop) as an alternative of a TV.
- A large 78.4% stated they generally watch TV and films on social media platforms like YouTube or TikTok.
- 71% stated they discover TV and film suggestions by short-form social media.
Filmmaker Lesson: Cease combating the platforms. TikTok and YouTube aren’t simply the place your trailer lives; they’re the place your movie may be watched. I do not know if meaning releasing it piece by piece, however possibly when you have some kind of advertising and marketing technique or marketing campaign, that is the place to do it.
Summing It All Up
The children are all proper, they usually’re just a bit completely different, too. They’re nonetheless looking for out long-form tales and relatable characters; we simply have to present it to them in the proper locations.
What did you be taught from this examine?
Let me know within the feedback.
