Adam Vary
Updated on: October 16, 2024 8:33 am GMT
In a world where shorter attention spans dominate, Netflix’s “Stranger Things” star Gaten Matarazzo believes Gen Z deserves more credit for their appreciation of film. Despite recent comments from Winona Ryder about younger viewers being deterred by long movies, Matarazzo argues that this generation is more invested than many realize.
Gaten Matarazzo Defends Gen Z
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Matarazzo, who plays Dustin Henderson on the series, responded to Ryder’s sentiment that young people are concerned with a film’s length. Ryder had noted that many younger individuals initially ask, “How long is it?” before deciding whether to watch a movie.
Matarazzo stated, “I’ve got to give my generation a bit more credit,” reinforcing that just because the traditional cinema experience is evolving, it does not imply a lack of interest in films. He mentioned that Gen Z tends to be more analytical about the content they consume. Here are key points from his comments:
- Younger viewers may approach films differently, focusing on quality and depth.
- Gen Z has vast resources at their fingertips, allowing them to explore films extensively.
- The ritual of attending theaters is declining, yet many are still passionate about movies.
He also expressed a desire to see cinema traditions thrive: “I would love to see people going to theaters more.” Matarazzo believes that Gen Z is a “creatively forward bunch” and will positively shape the future of the film industry.
A Shift in Film Consumption
Matarazzo’s perspective highlights a significant shift in viewing habits. The rise of streaming platforms has changed how people interact with films. While theater attendance may falter, the craving for meaningful and engaging content is evident among younger audiences.
“Just because there isn’t the ritual of going to the theater, it doesn’t necessarily mean that there aren’t people who are invested [in film],” he said. This indicates a deeper, more calculated approach to viewing, which could lead to an exciting evolution in storytelling.
New Directions for Stranger Things
In addition to refuting Ryder’s comments, Matarazzo shared more about “Stranger Things.” In a recent discussion, he suggested that the writers should consider killing off more main characters to heighten the stakes. This aligns with the show’s signature style of suspense and unexpected twists.
The final season of “Stranger Things” is set to consist of eight episodes, with filming having started in January. Matarazzo assured fans that the conclusion will feel satisfying. “The way that the shows have been going… just seems like the ultimate plan that [the Duffer brothers] have always had,” he said.
Frank Darabont Joins the Team
Proving the show’s allure, legendary director Frank Darabont returned from an 11-year retirement to direct two episodes of “Stranger Things 5.” His decision was deeply tied to the show’s heart and positivity, which he feels is lacking in much of today’s content. Darabont explained, “Our content now is so filled with horrible people doing horrible things for greedy reasons, but ‘Stranger Things’ has so much heart.”
His return underscores the impactful storytelling and strong emotional core that “Stranger Things” provides, attracting talent even after long breaks from directing. Matarazzo echoes this sentiment, assuring fans that serious consideration has gone into the final installment.
Looking Ahead
As anticipation builds for the last season, Matarazzo continues to explore opportunities in film. He recently starred in the Disney+ miniseries “Lego Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy.” Fans of “Stranger Things” can expect episodes that are “very long,” according to co-star Maya Hawke, further indicating a shift towards longer, cinematic experiences in television storytelling.
Conclusion
As we talk about how long movies are and how people watch them, Gaten Matarazzo’s comments remind us to think deeper. Gen Z has their own special way of enjoying films, which is exciting for the future of movies and TV shows. With talented people like Matarazzo and Darabont sharing their ideas, “Stranger Things 5” is going to be a fantastic ending!
