Get your observations in!

We are now exploring identity and culture and class issues. As you consider the films you are watching this week, move away from setting and lighting into use of camera angles to highlight the narrative...and also think/write about the issues of race, class, and what the writer/film maker is trying to communicate to you (the audience).

I know that "Go, Live, Become" is a long film (could use editing...something you might consider in writing on the blog -- what you might cut out and still keep the narrative moving), but it is worthy of your attention. As you watch it, reflect on what culture (what we consider those parts of ourselves that connect us to our past and others), race/ethnicity (our and other's views of who we are and what that means), and socio-economic factors (views of poverty, education, opportunity, etc.).

When you consider the three films you have seen this week, I hope that you will think/write about how film can communicate issues that are universal in terms of identity: How important is our sense of belonging to a "culture" (way of life with common values) affect who we are and how far will we go to hold on to that? What does it take to change a person's sense of self in relation to others? How do people "use" stereotyping of others to define themselves and is that really helpful? Is it possible to maintain a sense of self and, at the same time, find ways to develop an appreciation for others...even when that can mean adapting or compromising one's sense of self?

I will be looking for more thoughtful blogs from you. I also want to see more independent entries (your own film choices and how you are now viewing them).

This isn't a class where you can sleep through a film, not reply on the blog, or reflect on film as an important art and communication venue...so wake up, get thinking, pay attention! I expect one page of dialogue for your own film treatment by Sunday.

In the meantime, re-read what I have given you about camera angles and shots (url), review the meaning of narrative in film, and get a sense of how dialogue is written for a screenplay...and of course, IMMERSE YOURSELF IN FILM!