Movie analysis and comparisons Voyage week 7
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Movie analysis and comparisons
Voyage
Part 1 - based on the Voyage - Analysis questions
1.
Based on the Heroes, Villains, and Women paragraph, What is the Voyage movie
about?
The paragraph under "Heroes, Villains, and Women" gives a concise overview of the film
"Voyage's" thematic components. While it does not give away too much of the film's storyline, it
does hint that the usual suspects of heroes, villains, and ladies are all fair game. The film
probably explores themes like the protagonists' trip or voyage, the obstacles they face, and the
power women have in influencing the story. The paragraph suggests that "Voyage" may be a
character-driven tale with numerous complicated roles and connections by implying a varied
plotline that involves these iconic characters and their interactions.
So far, we have analyzed all the movies we have seen only culturally, socially, politically,
etc. However, Salanas doesn´t only focus on these topics but also on his idea, as he states
that: “
Latin America cinema must cultivate its own identity and ensure that the Hollywood
industries do not assimilate it.”
(pg. 107). Based on this idea:
1.
Explain the First, Second, and Third cinemas
The term "First Cinema" is used to describe the mainstream, commercial films that were first
produced by Hollywood and other Western film companies. These movies are made with the
audience's enjoyment and financial success in mind, hence they often adhere to established
narrative and visual patterns. They are criticized for their ability to reduce cultural variation and
are sometimes considered as instruments of cultural imperialism.
Second Cinema is a reaction to the pioneering works of First Cinema. It includes movies by
independent and arthouse directors from Europe who wanted to do something different from the
norm. Artistic and philosophical concerns were often at the center of these films, which sought to
subvert conventional storytelling conventions. New Latin American Cinema was an artistic and
political movement that emerged in part because of Second Cinema's efforts to provide
alternative narratives and viewpoints.
Filmmakers Fernando Solanas, Glauber Rocha, and Octavio Getino coined the phrase "Third
Cinema" to characterize a radical new way of producing movies. Cultural and political identity
are given a lot of weight, especially in post-colonial and emerging countries. The goals of Third
Cinema include combating imperialism and uplifting underrepresented groups. A vehicle for
social transformation and a stage for artistic protest. According to Salanas, the purpose of Latin
American film is to represent and maintain Latin American cultural and political values, hence
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Third film agrees with the concept that Latin American cinema has to nurture its own identity
and stay different from Hollywood's influence.
2.
Explain how he ensures that his movies cultivate and maintain his Latin American
identity.
Salana probably utilizes a number of techniques to guarantee that his movies foster and sustain a
Latin American identity: Salanas may choose to create tales that are heavily influenced by Latin
American history, culture, and social concerns. He contributes to the development of a unique
Latin American cinematic character via his exploration of the region's specific themes and
experiences. To achieve a sense of linguistic and artistic authenticity in his films, Salanas may
employ Latin American languages and dialects. This attention to detail in language and design
helps to establish rapport with the audience and highlights Latin American culture. Working with
Regional Artists Working with regional actors, writers, and directors might help his movie seem
more genuine. Salanas may emphasize working with persons who appreciate the intricacies and
complexities of the area, thereby improving the Latin American cultural portrayal.
Salanas's films may serve as political and social commentaries on pressing topics in Latin
American society. He does more than just represent the true state of the area by bringing these
issues into the light; he also opens up a critical debate that has the potential to aid in positive
social change and the upholding of cultural traditions. Salanas may also take into account the
ways in which his films are presented and disseminated. He might look for events and websites
that highlight Latin American film in order to get exposure for his work without diluting its
cultural roots.
Analyze and explain the following statement that Solanas makes:
“All my cinema is a
reaction against Hollywood in which storyline and argument are more important than the
person. I try to break from the traditional schemas imposed by television and Hollywood to
make my own cinema in my own way”. (pg. 107)
1.
Solanas is very vocal and open about his criticism of Hollywood films. Examine,
based on the chapter reading, why he criticizes Hollywood filmmaking.
Solanas critiques Hollywood cinema because it often promotes formulaic and commercially-
driven tales, where the plot and arguments are frequently considered as more significant than the
unique characters or their subjective experiences. Standardized story frameworks and genre
tropes are often used in Hollywood films, which may hinder in-depth character development and
the examination of unique identities. Solanas's complaints are probably grounded in his view that
this method commercializes and standardizes film, turning it into a commodity. In contrast to
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Hollywood's focus on commercial viability, he views film as a platform through which
individuals may share their tales and genuine human experiences.
2.
Explain some of the cinematic approaches Solanas uses in the Voyage that could be
taken as an opposition to Hollywood’s aesthetics.
Several of Solanas's cinematic methods and techniques might be seen as being in contrast to
Hollywood's aesthetics, and this is reflected in his film "The Voyage" Storytelling that focuses on
its characters rather than a conventional storyline is what Solanas is known for. In "The Voyage,"
he may put the emphasis where it belongs on the individuals themselves by letting their
individual travels, feelings, and personalities take center stage, as opposed to Hollywood's
preference for plot-driven stories.
Hollywood tends to prefer a linear plot structure, although Solanas may use non-linear narrative
tactics to shake things up. This may generate a more sophisticated and contemplative approach to
storytelling, opposing the mainstream's inclination for plain narrative. It's possible that Solanas
intends for his films to display a high level of realism and authenticity. This may include filming
on location, utilizing non-professional performers, or focusing on social and political themes that
are unique to Latin America. In comparison, Hollywood movies tend to have a more polished
and glossy look. Cinematic Language: Solanas may utilize different cinematic language and
visual elements that vary from Hollywood's aesthetics. Rather of following Hollywood norms, he
may choose for unconventional building, illumination, and editing that better expresses his
perspective.
3.
Describe what “integrated identity” is in Solanas’ eyes.
To Solanas, "integrated identity" probably means depictions of personal and cultural identities in
his films that are honest and wholly their own. It might include a number of different things:
Characters in his films may have a strong sense of personal and cultural identity, as the term
"integrated identity" suggests they do. Their identities are not glossed over or treated as
afterthoughts; rather, they are intrinsic to the plot, illuminating the depth of Latin American
heritage and experience.
Solanas may place an emphasis on recognizing and honoring the many different identities that
exist in Latin America. Films may make an effort to include such differences, which may include
language, ethnicity, and location, into their storylines. As a term, "integrated identity" may also
refer to the merging of social and political identities. To better grasp the intricacies of Latin
American society, Solanas' films may investigate the ways in which the identities of people are
entangled with larger social and political concerns.
Solanas uses very specific approaches to bring the Voyage to life. Approaches
include
music, political vision, mythical realism, good characters, surrealism, satire,
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parody, cartoons, symbols (oppression and hope), and even Che Guevara.
Analyze and
explain how each one of those approaches brings the argument and characters to life.
The individuals and the debate in "The Voyage" are brought to life by Solanas's use of a variety
of cinematic techniques. To generate feelings and emphasize the film's themes, music is used
extensively. It has the potential to strengthen the emotional resonance and political resonance of
the story's protagonists and antagonists. The film's examination of social concerns and political
criticism are reflections of Solanas's strong political perspective. The characters become vehicles
for delivering his vision, enabling the audience to interact with and examine these concepts.
Using elements of mythological realism, the story becomes infused with magic and symbolism.
It may provide dimension to the characters and the argument by tying them into broader cultural
and historical tales. Complex, likable protagonists make it easier for readers to connect with their
challenges and goals. This adds a human dimension to the discussion and supports the story's
overall ideas.
1.
Describe Solana's representation of women characters throughout the movie.
It is probable that Solanas' portrayal of women in "The Voyage" is complex, much as the
roles and adventures of women in Latin American culture. Women in the movie may
represent a wide range of characteristics and play crucial parts in the plot. Women's
involvement to social and political movements might be highlighted and conventional gender
norms could be challenged if they are shown in these ways. Solanas's depiction of women as
multifaceted and fluid conveys them and adds richness to the representation of gender in
Latin American film.
2.
Solana's journey to explore and express the fundamental social issues of ethnicity
and nationality and national and individual identity is represented throughout the
whole movie. Explain why these ideas could be/are so important, not only to him
but to all Latin American inhabitants.
Considering the historical and present significance of the themes, Solanas' examination of
ethnicity, nationalism, and national and individual identity in Latin American film is very
important. The history of colonialism, abuse, and cultural variety in Latin America is
intricate. Filmmakers like Solanas may use their exploration of these topics to address long-
standing concerns of social fairness, injustice, and cultural preservation.
Recognition of the Indigenous, African, and European cultures that have all contributed to
Latin America's unique identity is reflected in the importance placed on ethnicity and
nationality. Solanas hopes that by exploring these topics, she may empower underrepresented
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groups and inspire others to take pride in their ancestry. Identity politics at the national and
personal levels connect with discussions of cultural imperialism from Hollywood and other
global forces, as well as problems of independence and self-determination. This inquiry is
vital for sustaining Latin American cultural originality and guaranteeing the area's cinematic
representation stays loyal to its unique culture.
Part 2
:
1.
Complete the following information and chart based on the movie you
watched:
White Elephant
a.
Country:
Argentina
b.
Timeline or year in which it is based:
2012
c.
Director:
Pablo Trapero
Character Analysis
1.
Julián:
One of the film's central protagonists is a priest serving the
poor in Buenos Aires's shantytowns; he goes by the name of
Julián. His role acts as a beacon of optimism and altruism
among the poverty and societal difficulties highlighted in
the movie. The "white elephant" housing project, a vast,
unfinished edifice, is a major part of the film, and Julián is
sincerely devoted to bettering the lives of the
underprivileged inhabitants who live there. Even in the face
of enormous obstacles, he remains empathetic, patient, and
steadfast in his objective to bring about good change. The
centrality of Julián's character to the film's examination of
societal concerns stems from the contrast he presents
between his faith and the harsh reality of the society in
which he works.
2.
Luciana:
Luciana, a fellow social worker in the same shantytown as
Julián, offers a more secular and pragmatic strategy for
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solving the community's issues. She is a multifaceted figure
who is committed to doing what is right for the individuals
she assists. Luciana is the kind of individual who will not
back down from the social, political, or economic
challenges that stand in the way of development for her
community. Her role is crucial because it allows the film to
more fully explore the tension between Julián's idealism and
the realism of others who approach the problems from a
more secular perspective.
3.
Sosa:
Sosa, a French physician, is a major character in the film
because of his pivotal involvement at the shantytown clinic.
He is a young, driven protagonist whose primary goal at
first seems to be climbing the corporate ladder. However, as
the plot unfolds, he changes in important ways.
Involvement in the community's issues causes Sosa's
attitudes and objectives to shift throughout the film. His
story illustrates the possibility for development and
transformation in the face of hardship and the transforming
effect that working in such a demanding atmosphere can
have on an individual.
2.
Social issues criticized
throughout the movie
-
Explain your answer
The film "White Elephant" takes a critical look at a variety
of social concerns that are relevant to the poor
neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. The video draws attention
to the pessimism and despair felt by the people of these
underprivileged neighbourhoods due to their poor living
circumstances and limited access to essential services. It
depicts the struggles of drug addiction, violence, and
criminality that emerge under these conditions, illuminating
the human cost of urban poverty. The film explores a
variety of social issues through the eyes of its protagonists
Julián, Luciana, and Sosa, including healthcare gaps,
educational deficiencies, and the fight for equality in the
face of adverse circumstances.
3.
Political issues criticized
throughout the movie
As a critical look at political concerns, "White Elephant"
focuses on the government's inability to deliver on its social
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-
Explain your answer
housing and infrastructure development promises. The
"white elephant" housing project, a massive, unfinished
edifice that hovers above the shantytown, serves as a strong
emblem of bureaucratic ineptitude and political
malfeasance. The video highlights the need for transparent
government and a more appropriate strategy to urban
planning by exposing the chasm between politicians'
rhetoric and the unpleasant reality experienced by
communities. It highlights the exploitation of marginalized
groups for political benefit and prompts debate about the
state's responsibility to solve structural problems.
4.
Economic issues
criticized throughout the
movie -
Explain your
answer
The film's condemnation of poverty and inequality is
focused on economic concerns, and "White Elephant" does
not shy away from highlighting these problems. The
movie's protagonists face real-life problems including
unemployment, inequality of opportunity, and worker
exploitation. Similar to the real-world difficulties
experienced by emerging countries, economic concerns are
further complicated by the existence of international
institutions and foreign interests. Individual economic
decisions may effect bigger economic concerns, as shown
by the film via Sosa's change and his willingness to engage
in the well-being of the community. In order to end poverty
permanently, resources and opportunities must be shared
more equitably.
5.
Other issues criticized
throughout the movie
-
Explain your
answer
This section is
required. MUST be
completed
Not only does "White Elephant" criticize the social,
political, and economic systems, but it also explores bigger
issues including the moral and ethical challenges
encountered by people trying to make a difference in their
communities. The film prompts contemplation on the
relative weight of religious belief, benevolence, and self-
interest in explaining the motivations of both individuals
and groups. The book examines the conflict between
idealism and realism, drawing attention to the complexity of
social work in trying settings. In addition, "White Elephant"
explores issues of multiculturalism and social cohesion, as
people from all backgrounds work together toward a
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common goal of bettering the town's citizens' quality of life.
These bigger topics provide dimension to the film's
investigation of social change and the human condition.