8 Mile

The film 8 Mile, featuring Eminem portraying himself, would probably not be considered by most as a “great” film that will stand the test of time. However, as the book categorizes this film as relating to censorship, it does raise some discussion points. Additionally, the film touches on several elements of social and cultural values as told through the story of Eminem’s youth and upbringing.

While watching this film with my friend and fellow student, Zman, we both agreed that, while it is certainly not appropriate for all audiences, the mature content in this film is arguably necessary for credibility and realism. Unfortunately, in some cases, censorship can dilute a film, song, or work of art.

8 Mile was based on and inspired by real life events and situations. Accordingly, it provides some commentary on social and cultural values. The film accomplishes this through a depiction and interpretation of life and the underground rap-music scene experienced by a young Eminem. Racism, prejudice, poverty, drug use, and abuse are all societal elements that are depicted in the film.

Unfortunately, while 8 Mile is an example of art imitating life, its mature content and premise can sometimes have the unintended consequence of causing some viewers to, in turn, imitate this creation. Therefore, the lines between fiction and reality are often blurred leaving no film or viewer as an island unto only themselves. Because of this opinion, censorship exists. Despite its damage to the original integrity of a work of art, censorship will always remain a necessary protective device in the battle between art and life.

Crash

Does art imitate life or does life imitate art?

This is the primary topic of discussion in this final session about interpreting film. The week’s film, Crash, is essentially a commentary on the basic ways that people relate to one another. Crash ambitiously and aggressively takes on the problem of racism and bigotry in America as depicted through the relationships of various characters who’s lives become interwoven.

As stated on the session five website, some people believe that films attempt to shape what we think about, while others think that movies just reflect what we are already thinking. I believe, Crash uniquely encompasses both these views of the relationship between film and the audience. Fundamentally, Crash is a reflection of American race relations and commonly held stereotypes based on ignorance and fear. Additionally, however, I believe this film seeks to shape the viewer’s perception of race and prejudice. The film accomplishes this by presenting a diverse group of highly flawed characters that, in the end, redeem themselves either by their selfless actions or changed attitudes.

The film’s social statement seems clear: racism, prejudice, and ignorance are commonplace throughout every race and group in society. Everyday, each one of us can choose to either further perpetuate or mitigate that bigotry based on our attitudes and actions.

American History X

The film American History X was one that both I and another student in this class, Ryan Zezulka, had seen a few years ago but took on new life as we watched in the context of this course. This film certainly uses the elements from the assigned chapters to affect and impact the dramatic nature of this serious film.

Clearly, the use of editing, color, and lighting, as the textbook notes, transitions the audience between separate worlds. The early scene of the film where Derek brutally kills three black males lacks color and is very dark. This darkness reinforces the darkness of what’s happening on the screen as well as the hatred in Derek’s heart. The film’s use of color shows all the dark, racial, and difficult times in both Derek and Danny’s life through the use of black and white; and then shines through on positive moments as well as emphasizing difficult moments with color as well. Interestingly, in this film about race and skin-color, the lack of color in many scenes is used symbolically. Removing the film’s color serves to focus the audience on the intended message that we are all humans regardless of skin color.

The acting, most notably by Edward Norton, is very well done. Becoming the character of Derek, Norton added substantial muscle mass, tattoos, and attitude. Initially in the film, Derek was filled with raging racist hate, but later replaced with serenity, acceptance, and wisdom. The raw emotions displayed by Norton of pure hate at the film’s beginning as well as incredible sorrow at the death of his brother leave little doubt in the audiences’ minds about the acting conviction and skill of Norton.

The Dark Knight

Like its predecessor Batman Begins, The Dark Knight was another smash-hit in the batman series. In fact, I believe Dark Knight is not only the best batman film but also one of my personal favorite films. This week’s assigned chapters from the textbook outline many reasons this film was so highly acclaimed and instantly beloved by audiences. Editing, color, sound, music, acting, and directing all have substantial impact on the success or failure of a film. In this case, each of these elements was executed to near-perfection!

The editing of The Dark Knight, in my opinion, is not quite as noticeable, or plays as substantial a role, as in some other films. The editing I noticed in this film seemed mainly used to speed ahead in time, cutting past less interesting details of the story. However, the lack of some editing elements, like slow-motion in fight scenes, seemed intentional to add to the films realism and grittiness. One editing element worth noting was the back-and-forth scenes of Harvey and Rachel held captive in respective warehouses. The switching back and forth added to the shock of the explosion causing Rachel’s death by confusing the audience.

The Dark Knight’s visual look followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, Batman Begins. The film’s use of lighting and color as a symbol depict a very dark, serious, and foreboding theme. The character of the Joker is the one bright dash of color in this otherwise dark colored film. Interestingly, under the surface, this is by far the darkest character in the film and the darkest-ever portrayal of the Joker. Aside from keeping with the traditional look and colors of the Joker, I believe the color brought to the film by this character draws the audience’s attention to him even more so.

The use of sound in this film does not seem too unique or different than most action films. The musical score of this film, I believe, is entirely orchestral music. I believe this adequately adds to the mood of the film’s scenes without taking attention away from the visual elements. I do like the film’s use of voice-over narration, particularly at the end where batman is running away while Commissioner Gordon talks to his son.

There’s not much to say about the acting in this film that hasn’t already been said many times. Clearly Heath Ledger, in his final role, exceeded all expectations. He truly “became” the Joker and created a character that will forever haunt the minds of audiences. One sour note regarding the acting in this film was Christian Bale’s voice as batman. I personally didn’t think much of it, but many viewers have told me that it was too unrealistic and forced; it took-away from the character.

I am choosing to write my director paper about Christopher Nolan. In addition to this film Nolan has directed many other acclaimed films such as Inception, Batman Begins, The Prestige, and Memento. I truly enjoy the concept of style, cinematography, and structure that Nolan infuses into all his films. Additionally, Nolan’s films are blessed with incredible acting talent. It seems clear that, when surrounded by great talent, Nolan is the type of director that allows the actors some freedom in expressing their interpretation of their character. Commenting on working with actors who have distinctively different styles, Nolan states, “The best actors instinctively feel out what the other actors need, and they just accommodate it." (Imdb.com, 2010). I look forward to further study of Chris Nolan in my director paper.