The "New Yugoslav Cinema" emerged in the late 1960s and continued into the 1980s, characterized by a wave of innovative films that reflected the social and political changes in Yugoslavia. Filmmakers sought to break away from traditional narratives and explore themes of identity, conflict, and the complexities of life in a multi-ethnic society. Key figures in this movement included directors like Dušan Makavejev and Želimir Žilnik, who used experimental techniques and a blend of documentary and fiction. This cinema was notable for its critical stance towards the government and its exploration of personal and collective experiences during a time of significant upheaval.