Are Movies and TV Shows Getting More “Woke” or is it Just Me?

If it seems that every new movie or television show comments on social justice, diversity, or gender, this perception is increasingly common among seniors and baby boomers, leading many to question whether Hollywood and TV have become more “woke.”

What Does “Woke” Even Mean?

The word “woke” has changed significantly in recent years. Originally rooted in the Black American civil rights movement, the term refers to being alert to injustice and is now widely used in politics, the news, and everyday conversation. “I just want to watch a good movie, not feel like I’m in a college seminar,” says 72-year-old Margaret Klein of Ohio. “It used to be you could sit down with your grandkids and not worry about being lectured.”

Hollywood’s New Messages

It’s not your imagination—Hollywood has taken a new approach in many recent movies and TV shows. Disney’s 2023 live-action “The Little Mermaid” featured a Black actress as Ariel, sparking debate about representation and tradition. “Lightyear” (2022) included a same-sex kiss, which led some boomer viewers to question whether children’s movies should carry these messages. Superhero franchises like “The Marvels” (2023) and “Eternals” (2021) put women and minorities at the center, while “The Woman King” (2022) spotlighted African history and female warriors—stories rarely seen in past decades (EarlyGame).

Television has followed a similar trend. Series such as “DI Ray,” “Heartstopper,” and “The Rookie” emphasize diversity, LGBTQ+ issues, and policing (IMDb). Even long-running shows have updated casting and storylines to reflect modern values, leading some viewers to feel that TV has shifted from a comfort zone to a space that reflects ongoing societal debates.

What Boomers Are Saying

Viewers—especially older ones—bring a range of perspectives to these changes. “I get that the world is changing, but does every movie have to be a lecture?” asks 68-year-old Jerry Patterson from Florida. “I just want a good story. I don’t need to be reminded of politics all the time.”

At the same time, some older viewers see value in this shift. “Isn’t it a good thing if more people see themselves on screen?” says Linda Franklin, 74, from California. “We had movies that only showed one kind of family. That wasn’t real life.” Some boomers even recall movies from their youth that tackled tough issues—“In the Heat of the Night” (1967), “Philadelphia” (1993), “Dances with Wolves” (1990)—and point out that art has always reflected the times (IMDb).

Is Hollywood Overdoing It? Or Catching Up?

Debates about this shift are ongoing. Critics of “woke” culture argue that overemphasizing representation and political themes can feel forced and detract from storytelling. Some say films now prioritize checking boxes over genuine narratives, risking alienating longtime viewers and box-office losses (The Guardian). Supporters, on the other hand, argue that inclusion and updated perspectives attract new audiences and promote fairness. Research findings show that audience reactions vary widely, but films succeed best when storytelling is authentic, and the message fits naturally with the plot.

The Bigger Picture

Movies and TV have always evolved with the times. From the rebellious films of the 1970s to the family sitcoms of the ‘80s and ‘90s, what appears on screen often reflects contemporary societal issues. “Maybe this is just the latest version of that,” says Jerry. “We complained when Elvis shook his hips, too.”

So, are movies and television getting more “woke?” In some ways, absolutely—but it’s part of a larger shift. Hollywood is more focused on inclusion, diversity, and social issues than ever before. Whether that’s progress, a nuisance, or just the next phase in pop culture depends on who you ask.

Currently, those seeking pure escapism in entertainment may have to search more intentionally. For many, ongoing debates about representation and social issues are now a significant part of the viewing experience.