5 Major Developments in Mass Culture This Year
As we approach the end of the year, it’s time to reflect on the significant developments that have taken shape in mass culture. With the world experiencing a drastic shift in the wake of the pandemic, the entertainment industry has undergone immense changes. From the rise of streaming services to the decline of movie theaters, there have been several noteworthy moments. Here are five major developments in mass culture this year:
1. The Emergence of Streaming Services
Streaming had already become a dominant force in the entertainment industry over the past few years, but 2020 saw a significant surge in its popularity. With people locked inside their homes and traditional activities curtailed, streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ emerged as the go-to platforms for entertainment. Household names such as HBO Max, Peacock, and Apple TV+ also entered the streaming service market, contributing to the proliferation of options for viewers.
2. The Fall of Cinemas
Movie theaters have been a staple in mass culture for decades, and their decline this year has resulted in a major shift. With the pandemic causing theaters to shut down and people eager for fresh content, major studios turned to streaming platforms to release their movies. The industry giants, such as Warner Bros. and Disney, made deals to release their films both in theaters and on streaming platforms on the same day. This move redefined the concept of the theatrical release and blurred the line between cinema and streaming.
3. The Popularity of Virtual Events
Live entertainment, such as concerts and sports games, were also affected by the pandemic. With in-person events coming to a halt, virtual events gained significant traction. From virtual concerts to online sports games, many events were able to transition to a digital medium. Technology allowed audiences to experience these events from the comfort of their own homes, fundamentally transforming the way we experience live entertainment.
4. The Rise of TikTok
TikTok is a social media platform that allows users to create short-form videos set to music, and its popularity skyrocketed this year. The app became a viral sensation, particularly among younger generations. TikTok has become a cultural phenomenon, creating viral trends and catapulting obscure songs to the top of the charts. With more than a billion users across the world, TikTok has cemented its place in popular culture.
5. The Importance of Social Justice and Inclusivity
2020 was a year that focused on social justice issues and emphasized the importance of inclusivity in mass culture. Fans and critics alike demanded that the entertainment industry become more inclusive and authentic. Companies actively worked to create content that is representative and respectful of diverse communities. The success of works such as “Watchmen” and “Lovecraft Country” showcased the importance of storytelling that is empathetic and reflective of the world around us.
In conclusion, 2020 was a year that transformed mass culture in ways that were both significant and unexpected. Streaming services, virtual events, and platforms such as TikTok became essential parts of our daily lives. The pandemic highlighted the fall of traditional forms of entertainment such as movie theaters, signaling a change that may be more permanent than we initially anticipated. Simultaneously, the importance of social justice and inclusivity within mass culture has been placed at the forefront of industry discussion. As we move towards the future, it will be interesting to see how these developments continue to shape mass culture.
