ACADEMY TRENDS
Audiences are craving relief from screens and algorithms. So, brands that position themselves as enhancers of real life – rather than replacements for it – are resonating strongly. Visually, this means outdoor locations, natural light and moments of genuine interaction. Conceptually, it means stories that value presence over productivity. REAL WORLD Audiences are good at detecting fakes so make sure your work reflects what’s really going on (left). It’s not enough to just go for a trending retro look when colour grading – it’s still all about the subject and how you shoot it stylised effects and impossible spaces are being used to elevate emotion rather than distract from it. The fundamental difference is restraint. Surrealism works best when anchored by something human – a face, feeling or recognisable moment. Without an anchor, audiences disengage. 10 Dance and movement Dance and movement are enjoying a renaissance. From chaotic, spontaneous motion to expressive choreography, physicality cuts through noise in a way dialogue often can’t. Movement-driven storytelling is universal, emotional and engaging. When shooting, it demands a strong relationship between camera, music and performance and rewards those who can capture rhythm visually. 9 Surrealism with a purpose Surreal imagery has become more purposeful. Dreamlike sequences,
demands cultural understanding, respect and collaboration. When done well, it builds trust. When done badly, it is instantly obvious. For filmmakers, this reinforces the importance of listening to collaborators, subjects and communities. Authenticity can’t be manufactured in post. 8 Escaping the screen Ironically, as AI and digital tools dominate headlines, commercial filmmaking content that leans hard in the opposite direction is becoming more valuable. Living in nature, tech-free lifestyles, real-world connection and offline experiences are becoming powerful themes.
used as an emotional shorthand. This owes much to the worlds of fashion and interior design, where the 50 shades of grey look has finally had its day and become a sign of bland, decade-old trends. Audiences respond to stronger visual identities, and brands are leaning into colour to differentiate themselves in crowded feeds. When shooting, this means colour decisions start with production design, wardrobe and lighting – not just in the grade. Colour isn’t something to fix later but is part of the wider narrative language. 6 Abstract textures as a metaphor Another notable shift is the increased employment of abstract, textural imagery: particles drifting, liquids colliding, macro details and microscopic worlds are being used to visualise ideas that are otherwise hard to show such as emotion, connection or transformation. These shots are not just visual filler. Done well, they become a way of expressing feeling without explanation. Sound design can play a huge role too, turning visuals into immersive moments. For anyone with macro kit, creative doors are opened. You do not always need actors, dialogue or locations to tell a story. Sometimes a texture, movement or reaction is enough. 7 Authentic diversity Representation is no longer a trend but an expectation. Audiences want to see the world reflected honestly and without tokenism or caricature. There is a push towards authentic diversity, rooted in real communities, locations and experiences. More than casting choices is required. It “Colour isn’t something to fix later, but is part of the narrative language”
The takeaway is that audiences want honesty, texture and intention. They’re less impressed by technical perfection and more moved by emotional truth. So, working filmmakers should sharpen their observational skills as much as their technical ones. Understanding people is as important as understanding light, colour and movement. And it is also crucial to know when to step away from formulas that no longer serve the story. The tools keeps evolving, but the goal remains the same: to make people feel something. In 2026, the filmmakers who succeed will be the ones who deliver on that. WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU?
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