flicks

Flicks is a colloquial term for motion pictures or films, commonly used in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, and is roughly synonymous with "films" or "movies."

The term derives from the flickering images produced by early film projectors, and over time came to refer to the films themselves. In ordinary conversation people say "going to the flicks" or "watching flicks"; in formal writing, "films" or "movies" are typically preferred.

Flicks encompass a broad range of moving-image works, including feature-length films, shorts, animation, and documentary formats. They are distributed through cinemas, television, home video, and, since the late 2000s, streaming platforms. The terminology can vary by region; some places use "flicks" more than others.

Cinema emerged in the late 19th century, with silent films dominating the early years and sound films ("talkies") appearing in the late 1920s. The industry evolved through studios and theaters, then moved into home media and digital distribution. In recent decades online streaming has transformed accessibility and viewing patterns while traditional cinema remains a focal point for premieres and collective viewing experiences.

Flicks have shaped popular culture and media. Film criticism, awards, festivals, and archival efforts contribute to the appreciation and preservation of motion pictures, while discussions about representation, technology, and economics influence production and distribution.