Class Discussion: Woman as image, man as bearer of the look

The class discussion was divided between work on the Remix project and a discussion that centered around Laura Mulvey’s  ideas on how women’s images have been essentially hijacked by the film industry that has essentially “depended on voyeuristic active/passive mechanisms.” (389).   She goes on to say that in a sexually imbalanced society “pleasure in looking has been split between active/male and passive/female.” (383).  Whilst this is true to a certain extent, I believe that it is the society that dictates how the woman’s image is presented.  Further on, even if we educate the public or create movies that give control to the audience so that they are aware of what they are actually watching and what kind of messages are being sent.

I honestly don’t believe this to be the answer.  Even though we are aware of the subtle messages, some not so subtle, we still continue to make informed decisions that continue to objectify women.  Why do we do that?  I really don’t know, but it is what sells-what is popular.

In some cases, I would even go as far as to say that women objectify each other.   I don’t mean all women, but a good number.  They allow for their daughters to purchase dolls (Barbie) that send an image of how to look sexy and how you should dress or how much you should weigh if you want to be a smart and intelligent woman.  If we stop indulging or engaging in an atmosphere that objectifies women, then the directors, editors, business people etc. whether they are men or women, will be forced to give the consumer (receiver) what they want.  Do we all know this fact?  I am sure we all do, but unfortunately the majority of people will continue to seek for what pushes the button!

I must say my first induction into the making movies world was very enjoyable.  At first I was lost, but continuous work at home proved to be a big help.  One thing for sure, the idea of editing movies to create a remix is more involved that I had originally thought.It is absolutely time-consuming, but the results are worthwhile.

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