Meaning: The quote by Manuel Puig reflects on the enduring impact of movies and how they can transcend their initial perception as disposable entertainment to become timeless cultural artifacts. Manuel Puig, an Argentine author best known for his novel "Kiss of the Spider Woman," suggests that many of the movies he watched during his formative years were not necessarily given the credit they deserved at the time of their release. However, these same movies have managed to stand the test of time and continue to resonate with audiences even after 50 years.

Puig's observation raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of popular culture and the ways in which certain works can outlast their initial reception. It prompts us to consider what qualities or elements contribute to the longevity of a film, despite being initially dismissed as disposable. This quote invites us to explore the enduring power of cinema and its ability to shape and influence our cultural landscape over time.

In examining Puig's perspective, it becomes evident that the concept of disposability in popular culture is multifaceted. Many movies are indeed produced and marketed as mass entertainment, intended for immediate consumption and often dismissed as fleeting or inconsequential. However, Puig's assertion challenges this notion by pointing out that some of these supposedly disposable movies have managed to endure and even grow in significance over the years.

One possible explanation for the enduring appeal of such movies lies in their ability to capture universal themes and emotions that transcend the specific time and context in which they were made. These films may address timeless human experiences, struggles, or aspirations that continue to resonate with audiences across generations. Furthermore, they may possess artistic qualities, such as innovative storytelling, compelling characters, or groundbreaking visual techniques, that elevate them beyond their initial categorization as disposable entertainment.

Moreover, the quote underscores the role of nostalgia and collective memory in shaping our appreciation of cultural artifacts. As time passes, certain movies become imbued with historical and sentimental value, evoking fond memories of the past or serving as touchstones for shared cultural experiences. In this way, the enduring relevance of these films may be tied to their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to bygone eras, thereby transcending their initial status as disposable products of their time.

Puig's reflection on the lasting impact of movies also prompts us to consider the evolving nature of cultural value and critical appraisal. What may have been dismissed or overlooked in its time can later be reevaluated and recognized for its significance, as shifting perspectives and historical contexts shed new light on the artistic and cultural merit of certain works. This phenomenon speaks to the fluidity of cultural value and the ongoing process of reinterpreting and recontextualizing art and entertainment within different socio-historical frameworks.

In conclusion, Manuel Puig's quote challenges us to reconsider the notion of disposability in popular culture and invites us to recognize the enduring power of movies to transcend their initial reception and continue to resonate with audiences over time. It prompts us to explore the complex interplay of artistic, historical, and emotional factors that contribute to the lasting impact of certain films, despite their initial categorization as disposable entertainment. Puig's observation serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of cultural appreciation and the enduring relevance of movies as a form of artistic expression and cultural reflection.