Part 1 - Final

Mythology plays a huge role in cultures all over the world. These stories are passed down for generations and are seen in the traditions, art, film, and lifestyles of that culture. I have not had a lot of exposure to Indian films or the Bollywood genre and was very moved by the film, “Water”. I would love to explore the idea of the Krishna mythology that is woven through the film. This common Bollywood theme of two people from different classes falling in love is also a common theme in many of the “Hollywood rom-coms”. By looking more in depth at the tale of Krishna and Rahda, I will compare that with the young couple in Water and the film of "Titanic" which not only includes a love shared between two individuals of different classes, but has a similar water undertone that is presented in the film "Water".

Insidious and Interesting Use of Music

It is obvious how significant music is within films. When considering an interesting use of music, I immediately thought of the well-known horror film, "Insidious". This film uses an otherwise pleasant and happy tune, "Tiptoe Through the Tulips" and makes it one of the most chilling songs heard in a horror film. The song is heard numerous times throughout this film and its sequels, but the scene I chose was one of the most dichotomous uses of the song. Instead of seeing the horrifying demon sneaking around to a terrifying song, we see him working away with his sewing machine while this happy song plays. The use of this song really makes the viewers feel unsettled. It scares me every time I watch it!

Water

This week, we are watching the film “Water”. It is a film that can only be fully understood and appreciated when the spiritual and cultural background are recognized. The cultural aspect of the caste system can be clearly seen in this film. Widows were considered no higher than a beggar and are treated that way, especially by the wealthy. The spiritual love story of Krishna and Radha is also reflected in this film with the certain connection seen between the young widow and the handsome gentleman who meet on the street. The importance of traditional tales is apparent. Lastly, this movie uses the cultural perspective of the treatment of widows and women, in general, and that culture and tradition needs to be understood in order to see the true impact this film has on society.   

Orphan Black and Special Effects

One of my all-time favorites is the BBC show “Orphan Black”. This show is particularly impressive because the main actress, Tatiana Maslany, plays more than 8 different characters. Each episode involves numerous scenes that include two or more of Tatiana’s characters together in the scene. Putting together these characters into one scene takes a great deal of special effects in order for the interactions to appear natural. One episode has a scene that includes 4 of Tatiana’s charactes dancing together in a room. I found a great clip that shows both the actual scene and how they filmed each character separately in front of a screen and then compiled the videos. I find this type of special effect particularly impressive because it takes a lot of time and effort to combine so many videos together this seamlessly. Amazing!   

Tsotsi

We recently viewed the film, “Tsotsi”. This was a heartbreaking film that makes even more of an impact on the audience because of the music heard throughout. The film begins with a few songs that are very engaging; this style of music is a fascinating combination of traditional South African music and drums along with a hip-hop/rap-style lyric and beat. The initial songs have fast beats that are sometimes ironic during intense scenes that involve a serious discussion or show the divide between the impoverished areas of South Africa right alongside the wealthy areas. There were also more emotion-filled scenes that were supported with slower, softer music. I truly found the music in this film to be very pleasing to the ear, but also a wonderful addition to the story itself. 

Hot Fuzz - Interesting Transitions

This week, we are focusing on an interesting transition. (TubeChop is killing me so just skip to minute 1:00!!) The first film that came to mind was the montage scene in Hot Fuzz. This scene is packed with transitions. We can see cut shots, dissolves, and close ups which all help the audience know what to focus on during such brief shots. Another transition used repeatedly is the camera moving rapidly from one spot to another. This helps show the passage of time to tell a brief re-cap of the main character’s past which is the point of this montage scene.

Whale Rider

The film, “Whale Rider” told an amazing story that could only be effectively woven through the use of historical framework. The whole plot surrounds the understanding of the Maori culture, the indigenous Polynesian people, and the importance of storytelling through songs, myths, and prayers. The historical framework of how the traditional Maori people sing, dance, and refer to mythology to lead their daily lives impacts how the characters speak and behave. For example, Koro believes in the traditional Maori culture and will dispute anyone who speaks against that tradition. Seeing the history and understanding the culture helps the audience empathize with each character.