Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese Hate This New Kind of Movie, But We Still Need It

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Many famous directors like Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and the late David Lynch have criticized a recent trend in filmmaking. However, I believe this trend is actually worth praising, especially from an artistic perspective.

The way we watch TV and movies has changed dramatically with the growth of streaming and mobile devices. While these changes aren’t always perfect, there are definitely some positive aspects worth recognizing.

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Indeed, we still need a formalized term for a new kind of movie that millions enjoy.

‘Second-Screen Viewing’ Is a Controversial New Reality

Recently, many prominent filmmakers have criticized how streaming services are changing movies, particularly the habit of people watching on phones or tablets while also watching the main screen.

Second-screen viewing simply means watching TV or a movie while using another device at the same time, like a tablet, phone, or game console. It can even happen without actually watching a ‘first screen’ – for example, if you’re multitasking and doing something around the house while listening to a show.

Watching TV while also using another device, like a phone or tablet, is now incredibly common. There are reports that streaming services are even rejecting shows that aren’t designed to be easily followed while multitasking. A recent article highlighted claims that Netflix asked writers to have characters explicitly state their actions, so viewers who have the show on in the background can still understand what’s happening.

For instance, the website n+1 criticized Netflix’s Irish Wish, noting that certain lines appeared to exist only to explain what was happening. They cited a line like, “That will be the last you see of me because after this job is over I’m off to Bolivia to photograph an endangered tree lizard,” as an example.

Major Directors Hate Second-Screen Viewing

Many well-known film directors have expressed concern about how movies are now created for viewing on phones and tablets. They argue that these smaller screens and the distracted viewing habits they encourage prevent audiences from fully appreciating the film.

David Lynch believes that watching a film on a small screen, like a phone or computer, doesn’t compare to seeing it properly. He argues you might think you’ve seen the movie, but you’ll be missing out on the true experience.

Martin Scorsese recently urged fans to avoid watching his films – or most movies, for that matter – on phones. Steven Spielberg echoed this sentiment, referring to streaming films as “TV movies” and arguing they shouldn’t be eligible for major awards like the Oscars.

These directors are certainly allowed to have their opinions, even if some of their specific concerns have been exaggerated when applied broadly. However, the growing trend of watching content on second screens is something we should both try to understand and appreciate.

Modern Life Is Better Thanks to Second-Screen Viewing

Martin Scorsese famously requested in 2019 that people not watch his long film, The Irishman, on their phones. I ignored his advice and did exactly that.

I love movies, but life is busy! Between caring for my two young daughters and working, free time is limited. When I do have a moment, I usually want to spend it with my wife, though we don’t always agree on what to watch. A three-hour film about the connection between crime and labor issues, for example, isn’t exactly her cup of tea.

Watching The Irishman on a small screen wasn’t ideal, and I definitely didn’t get the full experience. However, I still enjoyed parts of it, even while doing everyday things like making lunch and checking my email.

Life is hectic these days, and even though watching something on a second screen isn’t the same as seeing it in a theater, it lets me enjoy films and shows in small moments throughout the day. For me, it’s not about replacing the cinema experience—it’s about watching something when I wouldn’t have the chance otherwise.

We Need a Name for Movies Designed for Second-Screen Viewing

It’s becoming clear that filmmakers are increasingly considering how people will experience movies on second screens – things like tablets and phones – and designing scenes with that in mind.

Great filmmakers deserve to have their vision stay true, but it would be useful if streaming services considered how people actually watch things. Many of us are only half-focused while watching, so maybe I’d prefer a decent, but not perfect, action movie I can enjoy while also playing a game like Balatro, rather than a slightly better movie that demands my full attention.

I remember when theaters used to show those fun, low-budget B movies. Now, I think we’ve got something similar happening with streaming – what I call ‘second-screen’ movies. It feels wrong to squeeze a really great film into that category, but honestly, it’s perfect to have a whole bunch of movies you can enjoy when you’re busy, not really focused, or just want something easy to watch. It’s about having options!

Second-Screen Movies Aren’t Going Anywhere, So Let’s Enjoy Them for What They Are

I used to go to the movies weekly, mostly to justify the cost of my membership. Now that I have kids, I know those days are over, and that’s okay. I’m thankful that I can still watch movies I enjoy, thanks to being able to stream them on my phone or tablet.

Look, I totally get why artists vent about audiences and the music industry – there’s plenty to complain about, especially with how streaming services operate and impact creativity. But honestly, I don’t think things like watching stuff on phones or the rise of smaller, independent films are bad. It’s just a different way people are enjoying art now, and that’s not necessarily a negative thing. It’s another way to connect with the things we love.

Of course, it’s better to fully focus on a movie, but watching with some divided attention is still better than not watching at all, and can still be enjoyable. If streaming services like Netflix and Amazon start creating movies tailored to how people actually watch them – with distractions – that seems like a positive step.

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2026-01-06 20:33