The Impact of 9/11 on Popular Culture: From Movies to Music
The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, not only impacted world politics and security but also had a significant impact on popular culture. From movies to music, 9/11 has been a part of the creative output of many artists. This article highlights some of the significant ways in which the event has influenced popular culture.
Movies
Cinema has been a mirror to society for a long time. After 9/11, there was an outpouring of films that dealt with the theme of terrorism, war, and patriotism. Movies like “United 93,” “World Trade Center,” and “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” are all centered around the events of 9/11.
These movies were not only significant because they gave a voice to the personal experiences of those affected but also provided catharsis to the audience. They helped people come to terms with the tragedy and provided a sense of closure.
Although the events of 9/11 were the starting point, these films also dealt with broader themes of loss, grief, and resilience. They became more than just films about a single event but rather about human emotions.
Television Shows
Television shows have also been influenced by 9/11. The events of 9/11 presented an opportunity for shows to explore themes of patriotism, heroism, and national identity.
One significant example is the political drama series “24.” The show’s main character, Jack Bauer, became a symbol of the righteous violence many believed was necessary to combat terrorism.
Other shows like “Homeland,” “The West Wing,” and “The Newsroom” also dealt with the politico-military side of the attacks. However, shows like “Sex and the City” and “Friends” that were not centered around politics or tragedy also issued episodes that tackled the aftermath of the event in their own way.
Music
Popular music has always been a form of protest, and 9/11 was no different. Within days of the attack, charity shows began to raise money for the victims. Songs were written to offer condolences and express anger at the perpetrators.
Musicians from across industries composed songs that captured their reflections on the event. Songs like “The Rising” by Bruce Springsteen and “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” by Alan Jackson became anthems of national unity.
However, 9/11 also influenced the way in which music was consumed. In the wake of the attack, there was an increase in the demand for patriotic music, and there was a decline in the popularity of protest songs.
Conclusion
The events of 9/11 have transcended national borders and have had a significant impact on popular culture worldwide. From movies to music, 9/11 has influenced the way in which we view the world. As more time passes, we continue to see how creative industries continue to take inspiration from this event, using it to tell stories of bravery, loss, and resilience.
