Blogging from A to Z Challenge
Theme: Why I watch movies (as if I need a reason)...
Technically, this isn't a reason I watch movies--I don't purposely seek movies with the intent to comprehend something--but it's a welcome bonus. I appreciate when movies help me understand cultures, situations, events, outlooks.
In Leonard Matlin's book 151 Best Movies You've Never Seen, he writes, "I don't think any medium is more powerful than film in fostering our understanding of different cultures and creating empathy for people we might never meet." (p. 133)
I love that about movies!
Do you?
We all watch movies for reasons of our own I guess. For some it's to be inspired and informed, for others, like me, it's pure escapism!
ReplyDelete@Keith ... Oooo, yes, escapism ranks high on my list of reasons to watch movies. And sometimes I learn something in the process, which eases my guilt for escaping. LOL
ReplyDeleteI agree that movies are a powerful means of fostering our understanding of different cultures and creating empathy for people we might never meet. As an avid reader, I believe books offer this opportunity also.
ReplyDeleteTrudy,
ReplyDeleteI don't know that I look for understanding in a movie. Entertainment really is the bottom line for me but if I'm educated about these things without taking away from the film meaning something isn't forced on me then it's enlightenment. Does that make sense? Sometimes I find it hard to say what I mean. :)
A2Z Little Mermaid art sketch series 'Ursula'
@Gail ... Yes, books definitely offer the opportunity for understanding, too! I have notebooks full of insights I gleaned from books.
ReplyDelete@Cathy ... Agreed... I don't like having a film's agenda or message shoved in my face. THAT, to me, does not promote understanding. I appreciate filmmakers who are passionate about their work, but let me extract any message from the film... or not.
ReplyDelete