Final answer:
National cinema refers to films representative of a country's culture and stories, affected by the means of their exhibition and consumption. It encompasses both traditional theatrical releases and modern digital streaming, which are integral to a nation's cultural identity and media landscape.
Step-by-step explanation:
National cinema is a term that refers to the films produced within a specific country, reflecting its culture, ethos, and stories. The possibility of exhibition and consumption of these films are crucial to defining a national cinema. Films are often seen as cultural touchstones, capable of bottling the essence of a society's dreams, fears, and experiences at a given time. Historical movements that shaped the possibility of film exhibition and consumption include the imposition of screen quotas and content regulations, such as those by France to protect its own film and music industries from overwhelming American influence.
Given the increase in online streaming services, the notion of national cinema has expanded beyond the traditional exhibition in theaters to include digital consumption. Companies like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon have changed the way films are consumed, making the preservation and access to national cinemas even more complex in the digital era. Despite the fears that physical media might become obsolete, especially in rural communities, it remains an important aspect of national identity and cultural heritage.
In summary, national cinema is not solely defined by geographic boundaries or language but also by the means in which films are made available to their audiences—whether through traditional movie theaters or modern streaming platforms.