A、Film: a Major Entertainment for Youth. B、Controversies over Film-making. C、Influence of Movies on Teenagers. D、Suitable Movies

The debate about the impact of cinema on teenage minds is as old as filmmaking itself. Protecting children from depravity was the main goal of censors in the early 20th century, and yet there is very little conclusive proof that films either harm or benefit young minds. However, simple common sense tells us they must have some kind of influence.
    Perhaps the most obvious effect is in the area of body image. Movie stars, with their make-up, tailored costumes and special lighting, are images of perfection. Teenagers developing their own personal physical image see these people as role models. Girls seek slim figures, boys yearn for strong muscles, and everyone hopes for a fairy-tale romance with a happy ending.
    But without the physical trainers, expensive nutritionists and filmmaking trickery, it’s almost impossible to achieve these ideals. For a teen, this disparity can lead to low self-esteem, behavioral problems, and eating disorders.
    In order to appeal to wide audiences, mainstream movies contain stereotypes that reinforce prejudices and may encourage cruel behavior toward so-called outsiders.
    Despite the influence of films on teen attitudes, researchers over the past 50 years have never proven a link between movie violence and teen behavior. They have consistently found that teenagers can tell the difference between the fantasy violence in films and the real violence in the world around them.