Core Viewpoint - The article critiques the current state of the film industry, highlighting a significant decline in box office performance and a lack of genuine storytelling from filmmakers, leading to a disconnection with audiences [1][2][11]. Group 1: Box Office Performance - The box office for the recent May Day holiday saw a 50% year-on-year decline, reverting to levels seen in 2017, with only two films surpassing 100 million yuan [2][11]. - The underperformance of films this year, except for "Nezha 2," is attributed to the content itself rather than external factors like marketing or star power [2][11]. Group 2: Filmmaking Trends - There is a consensus that the techniques used by veteran Hong Kong directors have become outdated, leading to poor box office results for their recent films [4][5]. - The film "Water Dumpling Queen," despite its potential for a compelling narrative, is criticized for its lack of depth and reliance on clichéd storytelling methods [5][6]. Group 3: Audience Expectations - Audiences are increasingly discerning, with a higher standard for what constitutes a worthwhile film experience, as evidenced by the stark contrast in box office performance between "Nezha" and other films [11][12]. - The article suggests that filmmakers need to move beyond superficial trends and engage with deeper societal issues to resonate with contemporary viewers [10][12]. Group 4: Impact of Short Videos - The rise of short video content has influenced filmmakers to speed up their storytelling techniques, but this has not necessarily translated into better film quality [8][9]. - Films attempting to critique the short video economy often fail to deliver a coherent message, reflecting a lack of understanding of the complexities involved [9][10]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The film industry may face a prolonged period of adjustment, with a continued lack of innovative content and a polarized market where only a few films achieve significant success [13][14]. - There is hope for a resurgence of quality films in the future, but this will require a shift in how stories are told and a deeper connection with audience experiences [12][14].