"Hollywood 2023: Strikes, Scholars, and the Screen's Highs and Lows"
The year 2023 marked a significant period for film and television, reflecting the political and cultural turmoil of the times. Amidst ongoing wars, the COVID-19 pandemic, and rising reactionary forces, the entertainment industry faced its own battles with strikes by artists challenging the economic hardships and corporate dominance in the sector. Despite union efforts to suppress these movements, the struggle highlighted the need for a more socially conscious and critical artistic expression. Films and TV shows like "Oppenheimer," "El Conde," and "Succession" stood out for engaging with these issues, while the industry also faced criticism for its silence on the Gaza conflict and the celebration of less impactful works like "Maestro." The year was also characterized by a decline in employment within the industry and a potential reduction in content production, signaling a challenging future for film and television.