Final answer:
The decline in the creation of classic movies in the 1980s can be attributed to Hollywood's focus on new techniques and audience preferences for relatable stories.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 1980s saw a decline in the production of classic movies due to a combination of factors. One reason was that Hollywood was focusing on new techniques, such as CinemaScope and Cinerama, which allowed for larger screens and 3-D films. The emphasis shifted from storytelling to gimmicks like special effects. Additionally, changing social patterns led to a shift in audience preferences, as the rise of the middle class resulted in a demand for stories that reflected their own experiences. This led to a decrease in interest in classic tragedies and a shift towards more relatable and contemporary themes.