New Wave Cinema refers to a film movement that emerged in the late 1950s and 1960s, primarily in France. It was characterized by a departure from traditional filmmaking techniques, embracing innovative storytelling, experimental editing, and a focus on personal expression. Directors like François Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard sought to challenge conventional narratives and explore themes of existentialism and social change. This movement was influenced by the French New Wave critics who later became filmmakers, advocating for a more artistic approach to cinema. New Wave films often featured on-location shooting, natural lighting, and a sense of spontaneity, reflecting the changing cultural landscape of the time.