Do Gen Z really have shorter attention spans for movies?

Recent box office successes suggest Gen Z's attention is guided by compelling content, not duration, challenging claims of collapsed attention spans for films.

Why do long films like Dhurandhar succeed at the box office?

Films like Dhurandhar succeed because their content is compelling and offers scale and momentum, making the runtime feel earned and engaging for audiences.

What truly captures audience attention in movies today?

Today's audiences are captured by value-driven storytelling, emotional reward, and narrative momentum, rather than simply the length of a film.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Gen Z Attention Myth: Films Prove Length Isn't the Enemy

Gen Z Attention Myth: Films Prove Length Isn't the Enemy

16 Dec

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Summary

Compelling content, not runtime, determines audience engagement.
Viewers reject unearned time, not necessarily long films.
Global successes like Oppenheimer and RRR defy short attention span theories.

Gen Z Attention Myth: Films Prove Length Isn't the Enemy

Recent box office trends are debunking the myth that shrinking attention spans doom long films. Blockbusters such as Dhurandhar, RRR, and Oppenheimer, some exceeding three hours, consistently draw audiences, proving that engaging content trumps runtime. The core issue isn't a lack of focus but a reduced tolerance for average or unearned screen time. When stories are captivating, viewers remain invested, regardless of length.

Experts suggest that audience patience isn't the problem; rather, it's the quality of the storytelling. Films that offer scale, momentum, and a sense of occasion, like Baahubali and Jawan, create an experience that resonates deeply. This trend extends to streaming platforms, where multi-episode series and extended movie runtimes have become a hallmark of viewer commitment, driven by narrative hooks and emotional investment.