Meaning: Gary Oldman's quote addresses the changing landscape of independent filmmaking and the challenges faced by filmmakers in the modern era. The quote reflects Oldman's perspective on the evolution of the film industry, particularly in relation to independent cinema. In his statement, Oldman laments the diminishing presence of truly independent films, attributing this shift to the increasing demand for marketability and the difficulty in securing funding through traditional means such as foreign sales.

The notion of "independent film" has historically been associated with creative freedom, unconventional storytelling, and a departure from the mainstream Hollywood system. Independent filmmakers often operated outside the major studio apparatus, seeking to bring unique and original visions to the screen. These films were valued for their artistic merit, willingness to take risks, and ability to explore themes and narratives that might not find a home within the confines of big-budget, studio-driven productions.

However, as Oldman suggests, the landscape of independent filmmaking has undergone significant changes in recent years. The rise of the globalized film market, combined with shifting audience preferences and industry trends, has led to a transformation in the way independent films are conceived, produced, and distributed. The traditional model of securing funding through foreign sales, once a mainstay of independent filmmaking, has become increasingly challenging as international markets have become more competitive and discerning.

Moreover, Oldman's assertion that "there's no such thing as independent film anymore" speaks to the notion that the term "independent" has become increasingly ambiguous and diluted. The proliferation of streaming platforms, the influence of digital technologies, and the blurring of boundaries between independent and mainstream cinema have contributed to a redefinition of what it means to be an "independent" filmmaker. With the emphasis on marketable angles and commercial viability, the distinction between independent and studio-backed films has become less clear, leading to a homogenization of content and a narrowing of opportunities for truly independent voices to be heard.

Oldman's observation underscores the challenges that independent filmmakers face in a landscape dominated by market forces and commercial considerations. The pressure to conform to market expectations and deliver commercially viable projects can stifle the creative freedom and risk-taking that have long been associated with independent cinema. As a result, some filmmakers may find themselves navigating a landscape where the pursuit of originality and artistic integrity must coexist with the demands of the marketplace.

In conclusion, Gary Oldman's quote encapsulates the shifting dynamics of independent filmmaking and the challenges posed by an industry increasingly driven by commercial imperatives. While the traditional notion of independent film as a bastion of creative freedom and unorthodox storytelling may be evolving, the spirit of independent cinema persists in the work of filmmakers who continue to push boundaries, defy conventions, and champion the art of storytelling on their own terms. Despite the obstacles highlighted by Oldman, the resilience and ingenuity of independent filmmakers ensure that the spirit of independent cinema endures, even in the face of a changing landscape.