13.1 Third Cinema movement and its political foundations
3 min read•july 30, 2024
emerged in 1960s Latin America as a response to political turmoil and social injustice. Rejecting Hollywood and European styles, it aimed to create revolutionary films that raised political consciousness and represented marginalized voices.
Influenced by Marxism and , Third Cinema developed new aesthetics and production methods. Its legacy continues in contemporary cinema's focus on social critique, experimental techniques, and representation of underrepresented communities.
Origins of Third Cinema
Historical Context and Political Climate
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Third Cinema movement emerged in 1960s and 1970s as a response to political and social upheavals in Latin America (Cuban Revolution, anti-colonial struggles)
Neocolonialism and economic dependency theories influenced Third Cinema development
Concept of "Third World" provided framework for Third Cinema's ideological positioning
Political repression and military dictatorships in Latin American countries fueled desire for revolutionary cinema
Economic inequalities and social injustices in Latin American societies motivated filmmakers to create politically engaged works
Cinematic Influences and Technological Advancements
European New Wave cinema inspired Latin American filmmakers to develop distinct cinematic language
Development of lightweight, portable film equipment in 1960s enabled guerrilla-style filmmaking
Italian Neorealism and British documentary tradition influenced Third Cinema's focus on social realism
French Nouvelle Vague and British Free Cinema shared critique of mainstream cinema with Third Cinema
Principles of Third Cinema
Rejection of Dominant Cinema Forms
Third Cinema rejected Hollywood's commercial cinema (First Cinema) and European art cinema (Second Cinema)
Movement aimed to decolonize cinema by developing new aesthetic forms and narrative strategies
Emphasized politically committed and culturally specific approach to filmmaking
Promoted collective production methods and non-hierarchical filmmaking practices
Advocated for democratization of film production and distribution
Political and Social Objectives
Sought to raise political consciousness among viewers and inspire revolutionary action
Concept of "camera as a rifle" emphasized use of film as weapon against imperialism and oppression
Focused on representing marginalized voices and perspectives (indigenous peoples, working class)
Employed alternative screening methods to reach wider audiences (community centers, union halls)
Aimed to address regional social issues and develop distinctly Latin American film aesthetic
Third Cinema and Global Movements
Political and Ideological Connections
Closely aligned with New Latin American Cinema movement
Influenced by revolutionary political ideologies (Marxism, anti-imperialism)
Collaborated with and drew inspiration from revolutionary political movements and guerrilla organizations
Resonated with concurrent anti-colonial movements in Africa and Asia
Contributed to development of postcolonial theory and cultural studies in academia
Artistic and Cultural Exchanges
Shared affinities with radical film movements of the era (French Nouvelle Vague, British Free Cinema)
Influenced by and contributed to Italian Neorealism and British documentary tradition
Engaged in cross-cultural exchanges and collaborations with filmmakers from Africa and Asia
Developed transnational co-production models challenging traditional national cinema paradigms
Incorporated experimental aesthetics and narrative strategies from various global film movements
Impact of Third Cinema
Influence on Contemporary Cinema
Political engagement and social critique continue to influence Latin American filmmakers
Experimental aesthetics and narrative strategies incorporated into mainstream and art house cinema worldwide
Focus on representing marginalized communities contributed to development of indigenous cinema
Critique of neocolonialism and informs debates on globalization in cinema
Legacy seen in emergence of transnational co-production models
Theoretical and Practical Legacies
Theoretical writings of Third Cinema filmmakers (, Octavio Getino) remain influential in film studies
Emphasis on alternative distribution methods influences contemporary guerrilla filmmaking and digital distribution
Community-based screenings in Global South draw inspiration from Third Cinema practices
Movement's focus on national liberation struggles continues to resonate in postcolonial cinema
Third Cinema's expansion of film language shapes ongoing discussions on role of cinema in society