Streaming Services Are Damaging Films by Changing Aspect Ratios

Importance of Aspect Ratio: The aspect ratio of a film, which defines the width-to-height ratio, is a crucial storytelling tool that influences audience perception and emotional engagement, with different ratios evoking distinct moods.

Impact of Streaming on Filmmaker's Vision: Many streaming platforms alter or crop aspect ratios, compromising the original vision of filmmakers, as seen in the contrast between films like Sinners, which retains its aspect ratios, and Dune: Part Two, which loses its IMAX format in home releases.

Technical and Commercial Challenges: The preference for standard aspect ratios in streaming services is driven by technical limitations and commercial concerns, as studios fear viewer backlash against "black bars" or shifting frames, despite these being intentional artistic choices.

Proposed Solutions for Preservation: To better respect filmmakers' intentions, solutions such as multi-format releases and clear labeling of aspect ratios on streaming platforms could help educate viewers about the significance of aspect ratios in cinematic storytelling.