What filmmaking trend was widely adopted by French filmmakers in the 1930s?

The trend widely adopted by French filmmakers in the 1930s was Poetic Realism. This movement is characterized by its blending of realistic depictions of everyday life with poetic elements, often capturing a sense of melancholy and nostalgia. French filmmakers sought to portray the struggles of the working class, while also infusing their narratives with lyrical and symbolic visual styles. Poetic Realism focused on creating a strong sense of place and atmosphere, often featuring tragic endings and complex characters that reflect the human condition amidst societal challenges.

This approach can be seen in works of notable directors such as Marcel Carné and Jean Vigo, whose films captured the essence of this cinematic style, elevating the ordinary to a more artistically expressive level. The exploration of themes like love, loss, and destiny within a socially conscious framework marked the significance of Poetic Realism in the history of motion pictures during that period.