Movies

Avatar is an exclusive movie fueled by imagination and fantasy, executed perfectly by a team of talented artists, designers, scientists and technologists. The director of the movie James Cameron states that Avatars design is to mix the familiar and the alien in a unique way.  The film is set in 2154. The title Avatar is a subconscious reference to Hindu mythology. One life ends where another begins. At the end of the film one character moves from the world of science fiction to that of fantasy. It is Camerons original story of genetically altered life forms. Avatar is a story about the battle between fantasy and science fiction. Fantasy triumphs at the end.

Science makes its absolute presence in the movie and is obvious through the Valkyrie shuttle and the Samson utilitarian vehicle designed impressively. The biological vision of Cameron is reflected in each and every frame of the movie and especially through the flora and fauna in the moon. Avatar amplifies the fact of how mechanical warfare is destructive in nature.

The bio-lab where the incubator tubes are present are given due attention and this tells us about the professionalism of the movie makers.

Pandora, a distant moon of the Alpha Centauri has been imagined creatively and shown spectacularly evoking splendid memories in audience. The audience have a real feel of the star system that is 4.4 billion light years away from earth. Virtualization of Pandora is the greatest effort of James Camerons 3D team.

Pandora is spectacular with thick forest, myth, spirituality surrounding the aliens Navi. The Navis connection to their living environment is religious.

The computer generated imagery could not perfectly represent human expressions for long in the film industry.  Avatar is a movie first of its kind to bridge the gap between computer generated imagery and human expressions. This is a giant leap in technology and the credit goes to Cameron for developing an image based facial performance. This has given the characters, especially the Navis (the aliens) a chance to convey their expressions thereby giving an artistic touch to the characters.
When many movies are struggling to convince the audience with CGI, Cameron had made it a successful venture. Unless told, it is very difficult to differentiate CG-generated imagery from photo-realistic one in Avatar.  In other words, the animation renderings in Avatar have been transformed into photo-real images. This makes the audience believe that the animated images are actors in makeup.  The academy award winner Richard Taylor and his team are behind this success. The creation of Navis is fascinating for the audience to watch every movement of them in a surreal atmosphere. The characters in Pandora can move, behave and convey emotions through facial expressions in a way no other characters in any other movie have achieved so far. All these characters in Avatar are CG created characters and so the groundbreaking technical achievement deserves great praise.

Clarity and precision have taken shape in Avatar depicting a new evolution in technical development. The advanced SD fusion camera successfully merged live action scenes and CG scenes.  Avatar is the first movie in which a unique way of mixing 3D and CG technology has been handled. This invention of virtual camera and simulation camera allowed Cameron to direct virtual sceneries on Pandora the same way he would a live action scene.

One has to understand the fact that science and technology alone cannot represent heartrending scenes in a movie. Having experienced this, Cameron has rightly imbued life into the movie by appointing renowned artists like Rob Stromberg, Wayne Barlowe, Ryan Church, etc. for preparing the script and commentary. The script and language play a vital role in giving an artistic touch to the movie. The language spoken by Naavi humanoid tribe is the result of many years of research by linguists to make it more realistic. The character names, the names of animals, the sound, grammar and syntax also make the Navi tribe more realistic. Ultimately, it is the artist behind technology that makes the images in the movie so remarkable.

Avatar is a movie so creative that it transcends cultural barriers and captures a unique place in the minds of audience. It is a world we have never seen before. It is a first step on the new world. The movie will be remembered for its special effects. The characters in the movie are passionate enough to move the audience. Both the hero and the heroine running in the forest, the perfect ambience, the secret tree, signs from Eywah, the spirited animals, eye catching mountains, the indigenous peoples deep connection to the forest, the network of energy borrowed, etc are difficult to describe to in words. One has to experience the effect in the theater.

The mysterious and awe inspiring scenes shot in bioluminescent forests and fluorescent foliate are truly magical in the hands of Cameron. In fact, precision is the watchword he would have had in mind while making the movie. Right from introducing Tyrannosaurus like behemoth to dragon-horse-eagle hybrid, Cameroon had vividly researched along with his teammates for years before making the movie.

The rich scenes in the movie include an auspicious sign from the Navi deity Eywah to indicate Jake must become one among them. This scene is shot in a reverend backdrop and surreal atmosphere. The artistic flavor is distinguishable in such scenes. Without James Horner for his score of music, the totality of these scenes could not be possible. The British singer Leona Lewis is also worth mentioning for her song I See You. Jake connects spiritually with the environment of Pandora and his love for Neytiri is quiet convincing. The heros opposing human interest turns the story to give more impetus. Cameron knows the art of story telling and he clearly satisfied the audience.

Altogether, Avatar is a combination of technology, art, science fiction, adventure and creativity in an unseen world of marvel.

When we talk of precision in Avatar, it could be possible only through mammoth research to set the standard of Pandora  the floating mountains, the usage of hair to communicate with animals like Banshees. The importance of hair for Navis is well explained - the delicate and sensitive tendrils are used to communicate with different plants and animals. The imagination of a dire horse with six legs is also acceptable. The Home tree that is more than 1066 feet in diameter is simply ecstatic. This is larger than any tree on the Earth. The wildlife all of a sudden joins the Navi in the attack against the human forces. This is the answer for the prayer by the hero to Eywah.

The audience wants to enjoy the stories in the best visual experience possible. The screenwriters understood the 3D and created the story with depth. 3D technology is more like a new spice to be wisely used in film industry and it affects each and every step of moviemaking. Technology is behind the success of Avatar. Avatar was shot using a high definition three dimensional camera that was developed for six years by Cameroon. The special effects expert Vince Pace also added to the success of the movie.

Cameron postponed the release of the movie since the technology he was aiming to achieve his vision not available then. This clearly shows that the movie Avatar could not have been possible had it not been for the invention of new technologies.

The movie cost about 300 million. The film became a box office hit surpassing Titanic in revenue collection. The movie won three academy awards  best cinematography, best visual effects and best art direction in the year 2009-10.

Part one - Mise-en-scene analysis

The Graduate- Ben and Mrs. Robinson Fight

Dominant
Mrs Robinson as she is light from below, suggesting her dominance also in the relationship.

Lighting Key
 Low key, shadows and contours place emphasis on Mrs. Robinsons face whilst Benjamin is in the dark, possibly both physically and emotionally

Shot and camera proxemics
Medium shot, both characters from waist up.

Angle
Low angel, we appear to be looking up at the characters placing al of our attention on them.

Color values
Dark, cold colors, predominantly grayscale over Benjamin, whereas Mrs. Robinson is wearing dark colors, her face and body are brightly lit suggesting her dominance over the comparatively youthful Benjamin.

Lensfilterstock
None obvious, possibly a fast film stock due to grainy texture but this may be because technology has improved greatly since this was made in the 60s.

Subsidiary contrasts
Main subsidiary contrast is Benjamin, as he is placed in shadow our eyes are drawn to him second, after Mrs. Robinson whos face and body are brightly lit.

Density
Moderate, background is noticeable but not densely packed with information, characters are main focus in the center of the shot.

Composition
Diagonal, Mrs. Robinsons gaze is upward at Benjamin, whereas his is downwards at her creating a diagonal composition in accordance with their gaze and postures.

Form
Difficult to gauge, neat framing suggests a closed form, but natural relaxed postures suggest an open form.

Framing
Loose, characters have room both between eachother and to the edges of the shot to move without the camera having to move to track them.

Depth
Moderately shallow, foreground frame is the dominant one, but picture on the middle frame is noticeable, and background isnt obscured to de-emphasize its importance.

Character placement
Both characters in center of frame, but Benjamin placed physically higher than Mrs. Robinson causing her to appear submissive, although vulnerability not achieved due to lighting. Her dominance despite being below him only emphasizes her control in the situation.

Staging positions
Both characters are shot in profile, showing their absorption with one another and no other external influences

Character proxemics
Personal, although fixed gaze on one another suggests a more intimate relationship is about to occur shortly.

The Night of the Hunter- Hallway announcement

Dominant
Eye is drawn to John as he is placed in the center of the frame and lit more brightly than Preacher.

Lighting Key
Low key, shadows and contrast create a sense of unease as felt by John as Preacher looms over him

Shot and camera proxemics
Long shot, see full bodies of characters and surrounding locale which emphasizes the confined space they are in and Johns feeling of being trapped by Preacher.

Angle
High angled, represents Preachers dominance over the small and vulnerable John and the size difference between the two.

Color values
Difficult to gauge as shot in black and white however Preacher is dressed is darker hues whereas its safe to assume John is in lighter or brighter colors, signifying Preachers bad characterization.

Lensfilterstock
Possible wide-angled lens creates depth and the feeling of all the objects in the room and the walls themselves are looming over John, again showing his vulnerability and lack of power in the situation

Subsidiary contrasts
Preacher as he is the only other character in the shot besides John, his dark colors in his dress make him subsidiary to John who is lit more brightly.

Density
Moderate, the objects as walls we see as a result of the wide angled lens, whilst we are made aware of their presence they do not create a busy or shot which is densely packed with information.

Composition
Vertical. The lines of the walls, doors, shadows and postures of the characters all create strong vertical lines, which signify Preachers strength over vulnerable John.

Form
Closed, the selection of a high angled shot does not seem the natural way to frame the characters, suggesting that there is a reason for shooting the scene as such.

Framing
Whilst the shot seems loose as the characters have room to move, the shot seems to emphasize Johns lack of freedom and he is not free to move out from beneath Preachers looming figure.

Depth
Multi framed, we are aware of the foreground and background, whilst the main action of the characters is placed in the middle frame, meaning that we are aware of the location of the shot and the feeling of entrapment felt by John is communicated through the foreground and background.

Character placement
Center, our eyes are drawn to the characters and it is their dialogue and body language which communicates the action of the scene.

Staging positions
Both characters are in profile, Preachers only concern is extracting information from John and John is forced to be concerned about Preacher as he looms over him in a threatening manner.

Character proxemics
The distance they are from one another seems intimate, however, given the context I believe the closeness represents a threatening relationship with one another and Preachers wish to control John by being close to him, as opposed to any affection.

North by Northwest- Rodger Confronts Eve

Dominant
Red of Eves dress and her light hair draws the eye to her.

Lighting Key
Moderate lighting, it is neither particularly bright nor is it particularly in shadow, giving the impression that nothing sinister is about to occur.

Shot and camera proxemics
Mid shot allows us to view seemingly awkward body language between the two characters.

Angle
Eye level shot suggesting no power imbalance between Eve and Roger.

Color values
Eves red dress and preened appearance have connotations of a femme fetale, suggesting that all may not be as it seems with her characterization. Roger however is dressed more mundanely, reflecting his seemingly normal existence before he was brought into this situation being confused for Kaplan.

Lensfilterstock
High quality of the shot given the un recent nature of the film suggests a slow film stock as the lines are crisp and clear, indicating a lot of artificial lighting has been used to light this scene.

Subsidiary contrasts
Roger is the subsidiary contrast as the eye initially is drawn to the attractiveness of Eve. This suggests that she may have the power in this relationship.

Density
Moderate, we see objects in the background however they are not intricate or interesting enough to detract attention from the characters.

Composition
Vertical as opposed to binary as the characters do not seem to be interacting with one another. The position of the arms and standing form creates vertical lines.

Form
Open, the positioning and framing seem like a natural way to shoot this scene, without too much attention being pulled to other objects or noticeable features about the shot.

Framing
Loose, the characters have room to move within the shot without too much difficulty. A relaxed shot seems to contrast with the tenseness we can read from the characters body language and seems to serve to highlight this awkwardness.

Depth
Deep, but not too noticeably so. He characters are clearly identified as the main spectacle of the shot.

Character placement
Center, our eyes are drawn to the characters and it is their dialogue and body language which communicates the majority of the action of the scene as opposed to location, props or scenery.

Staging positions
Both characters adopt a quarter turn, which seems odd given the intimate relationship we have already seen between them. Their positioning suggests and awkwardness with one another, we could second guess that one is hiding something from the other they do not wish the other to know. They seem guarded to one another, not wanting to absorb themselves fully in the other and wishing to keep some distance.

Character proxemics
They seem to have a social distance from one another, but their raised arms also create a further physical barrier between one another, again suggesting that they do want wish to become too intimate with each other for one reason or another and there is another factor which prevents their relationship from being intimate.

Part two- Short essay

Inglourious Basterds (2009) and Composition

Tarintinos use of composition within his film Inglorious Basterds allows the audience to gain a further insight into the action we see unfolding on screen, signifying to the audience issues of control and characterization, which is a key part of this text given the setting and theme.

For example, if we look at the shot one we see characters Aldo and Donny looming over a Nazi. The composition consists of vertical lines, in the posture of the characters, Donnys outstretched arm, the trees in the background and Aldos knife. Using this element paired with the low angled shot the audience is given the strong impression of these characterss strength over the Nazis relative weakness. The size of the trees, the size of the characters and their weapons on thus emphasized to again show us of this relationship. In addition, by also portraying this through a point of view shot, where we the audience are looking up at the menacing expressions on the faces of these two actors, there is no question as to who holds the power here and we are able to empathize with the feeling of vulnerability the Nazi must be feeling.

Similarly in the next shot Ill be looking at composition greatly enhances the feeling of unease in the opening scene of Inglorious Bastards. The main focus of the shot is the character of Hans Landa, and as he reclines on his chair, the other characters similar diagonal posture work together to create almost an arrow shape pointing at the floor, where we are aware there are Jews hiding under the floorboards. In addition, all the other elements in this scene, the table, the vertical lines of the wall, the table leg and the braces of the character on the left seem to be similarly pointing our attention downwards. These features together function to create a very tangible sense of unease within this scene, which lasts a few minutes as the audience, aware that Hans knows of the Jews under the floorboards, we know this as in this shot he seems to actually be pointing at them with his left hand, wonder how he is going to behave.

The final shot I shall be looking at is that of Melenie as she adjusts the film reels in preparation for the events which occur at the final climactic point of the film. Whilst she is positioned to the right of the shot, she is clearly the dominant feature of it given that she is the only character to be ascribed a colour value as she is clothed in a red dress, and similarly has red nails and lipstick heavily coding her as a femme fetale and a rare dominant female in film. In addition, whilst the majority of the film is chiaroscuro, by shrouding her in red the audience is hailed to regard her as important. However, whilst we are aware that she possesses power, in the centre of the shot and therefore were know of importance is the film reel. It is ultimately this object which comes to cause the death of lots of high powered Nazis, and possibly without this object Melenie would hold little power. The message portrayed through this composition of this shot therefore is that it is Melenies ultimate relationship with the film reel which holds the real power and dominance in this film, causing two generally underestimated elements, that is females and the power of film, to lead to the end of a great deal of Nazi power, something Tarantino seems to use his film to make strong a political and social point about being a film maker himself. Similarly, our attention is further directed to these objects through the use of shallow focus, causing us to overlook the density of the objects placed in the background. Again as these two elements create strong vertical lines through Melenies posture and the positioning of the film reel she is coded as being powerful and in charge.

In conclusion, through use of the element of composition Tarantino is able to communicate clear indicators of status and character to the audience as Melenie, Aldo, Donny and Hans are all positioned and framed in such a way that there is no question as to their dominance and power in each context. Whilst it is often the case that Tarantino leaves the audience guessing about power and control in terms of narrative, by looking at composition rather more consistent messages are portrayed, allowing the audience to be able to follow the narrative in a more linear fashion, picking up addition pieces of information to create a consistent text. Through Tarantinos adoption of a classicist mode to portray his narrative, elements of style and creativity are able to be expressed through mise-en-scene as details are given of above. However, Tarantino is prevented from losing the audience and the narrative and presentation of it remains wholly plausible and believable, to work together to create a text which is both highly stylised however still has an air of authority and truth.

Overall, I would consider Tarantinos use of composition to be on the same lines as others we have viewed this semester, as the composition does communicate a great deal of more subtle messages regarding integral plot points and character relationships, similarly in Citizen Zane for example, shots were also set up in such as way so as all elements of the mise-en-scene were carefully constructed to communicate a deliberate message to the viewer. However, the differing styles of these two directors has meant that the relative interplay of the elements which contribute to a mise-en-scene vary so as to allow each director to put their personal stamp on their own film and for it to reflect their own style of film making.

Since TVfilm was invented and discovered by man, it has become the leading pastime of all walks of life. Everybody seemed very hooked with the visual entertainment that TVfilm brings. It amazes everyone from toddlers to grandparents. I, myself, have been amazed by the magic of TVfilm to entertain when I first saw Charlie Chaplin, a British actor well-known for his comical acts in mimes and silent films during the World War I. He was the reason why I became interested in films. Two of my all-time favorite films were starred by Charlie Chaplin  The Kid (1929) and Modern Times (1936). Every time a video of his films or acts would be aired on TV, my stomach would surely ache because I couldnt stop laughing. Because of the joy of watching Charlie Chaplin brings to me, it became my therapy whenever I am not feeling well. Personally, I think that he is the most wonderful actor that the show business has ever had. In the history of film industry, he has the most desirable prototype  someone with a derby hat, moustache, tight coat, oversized trousers, huge shoes and sloppy feet. As a matter of fact, his style became a symbol and legend in comedy.

Furthermore, because of my fascination with Charlie Chaplin, I began to crave for more quality and entertaining shows and films. He greatly inspired me because he was not just a good actor he was also a genius filmmaker and writer. His contributions to the development of the film industry were great and very significant. As I studied his life and works, I began to realize that I develop a better understanding in the role and importance of films to human lives. After two courses, I learned that films have the power to influence and educate people. The influence of films to people is very great. Films affect how people develop their opinions about almost everything  from politics to fashion. Furthermore, films educate people. The knowledge that people get from films are very different from what are taught at schools. Hence, films create a realm that serves as an alternative learning environment for people which is great because it has a very broad range and it can attract people from different races and cultures.

So far, I have finished 6 courses with good grades in my field of study all under in the minor list. Although I only needed to finish 2 courses, I decided to pursue more because I enjoyed learning about different things. One of the subjects I took was Introduction to Art and Technique of Filmmaking. In this course, I learned that film is not only an art but also a powerful way to educate and persuade people. I loved the subject because it taught me not only technical things but also more about how people think. Films are for people. Therefore, as one creates a film, he thinks of people and what will influence and satisfy them. In the end, as one learns more about films, he understands people and human nature better. Another subject that I liked was Chicanos in FilmVideo. This subject opened my eyes to the idea that films actually promote impartiality and justice. Media stereotyped Chicanos as dirty and poor gangsters yet, films showed that they must not be isolated and judged roughly just because they were stereotyped that way. Films were instruments that showed the reason behind why Chicanos (Mexicans) act the way do.

I am majoring in Communication Studies and I am very much interested in taking film as minor. I have passion in films and the industry that creates films. I believe I can get more knowledge and understanding from films that I can use in my future in the near future. I love how films open the eyes of people and how it moves the world. In major Communication Studies, film as a minor will definitely be beneficial because it is a great way of sending messages and influencing people. I strong believe that it is the best choice for my minor since I have strong passion towards it.

Chaplin, aptly titled due to its recollection of the life of the infamous Charlie Chaplin, became a movie that people talked about when it was released in 1996. Not only did it put a new life to the seemingly happy life of Chaplin, it also emphasized on the possible reasons why the person chose to live such a lifestyle.

The director of Chaplin achieved to create a deeper meaning to the lead actors life by way of introducing lightning styles that have made his subtle expressions clearly manifested. With the alternation of black and white and color shots, the director was trying to emphasize the shift in mood in the characters perspective. Although the dominance of color images depicts the happiness that Charlie always shows the world, it is his personal demons that constitute to most of the highlights of the films.

Charlies Personal Conflict
When he began his journey, he posed as a happy person, nevertheless dumb in some aspects, but still functional, he attracted many contemporary critics and friends. In his attempt to make the world know that there is a way to be happy even when everything is sorrowful, the value of color made a quality impact. The director successfully put depth in the way that Chaplin was made, and this was possible in certain aspects of the film that he has put into consideration.

It can be seen overall the film that the musical score and the lighting effects made a part of the dramatic aspect of the movie. When the scene is happy, strong and vibrant lighting is used when there is a conflict or a sad judgment, a dreary atmosphere is recreated with the use of tingling music and harsh lights. Along with this are the actions of the actors and the changes in the weather condition. It is common for such movies to depict sad realization scenes in the rain and a sunny day for each overcome trial that Charlie have pursued.

Charlies Character Composition
Firstly, the director has created Charlies impeccable yet peculiar sense of personality through his likewise taste in clothing. The way that Charlie was dressed up in the movie can be described as smart, but the way he acted contradicted this. At times his humor was bordering on being simpleminded, partly because the director is trying to depict his failure to adapt in the present culture he is immersed in. Another notion of his humor was his signature beard, which until now is known everywhere. That and the fact that he always keeps a happy face for the world to see is his personal demeanor.

The outfits used by the director in the movie were characteristic of the era that they came from. This has been assured so that whatever they have changed in the movie can still be related with the true accounts. The director did not want to deviate much, and the adherence to the key structures made it even better. The director knew better than to try to recreate everything in Charlie. However, he tried to choose the actor that would best identify with the character. The selected of Robert Downy Jr. to portray the role of Charlie is a good choice, as Downy is known to portray any role with ease. His own take on Charlie was close to the best that people can expect. Even the expressions of Charlie are well-suited on his face.

What is remarkable about Charlie is that he would rather smile than accept that he is sad. Even when he has been cheated, bullied, made fun off, he repaid the world with happy disposition. This is a personal escape that he has established for himself.

Charlies Life
His life, although constructed in a similar way to everyones, is different in the way he reacted to each aspect. This is depicted in his manner and in the way he dressed for the occasion. The director wanted to create a character that is prepared for anything, sunshine or rain. He made Charlie in such a way that he will be able to give hope to those who have fallen and at the same time paint a smile on everyones face.

Perhaps Downy had been given trainings and workshops to master his expressions, and this was a good move from the director. The movie is set in an overall subtle sepia tone that depicts the emphasis on the overpowering sadness in the world. The movie is laden with symbolisms that have been carefully placed by the director in strategic locations. If one is not observant enough, he would not even notice the cue in the sound and lighting to change whenever the atmosphere is overpowered with happiness or sadness. Even when Charlie is not speaking, he is expressing himself in his actions the director also made it a point that the surroundings adapt to his feelings.

The world is seen through different perspectives, and each person has his own take on the natural events that are happening. For Charlie, the world is a myriad of happy events that is interspersed with trials and changes. No matter the intensity, he believes that it is fleeting and that everything will be back to normal again. This he showed when he continued forward with his life even when he has already been given enough trials than a man can take. His deep optimism made the world a better place, one that is worthy of his time and attention.

The director commanded everything with ease and subjected everyone to his powerful orders, which eventually led to a wonderful film. The director wanted to show how deep Charlie was, and this he achieved by using elements of theater and film design to cover up his flaws and pad him up with an inhuman capacity to think and comprehend beyond what others opt to do. Overall lighting, music, directing and blocking made the movie worth all the phrases that it has received. The director knew how to play with different scenes and emotions and tossed them together to create a film that relates as well as teaches.

Occurrences of war are significant events in world history and serve as a big inspiration to the film industry. Several of the most successful international films are inspired by different historical wars. Two of the best war films ever produced are Steven Spielbergs movie released in 1998 entitled Saving Private Ryan and Elem Klimovs 1985 film entitled Come and See (Idi I Smotri). War has many faces, and each battle impacts the world differently. These two movies give dissimilar but equally important representations and interpretation of war. Despite their differences, both films are successful in portraying the view of war they represent, leaving the audience with deep impressions and additional insights of the reality of wars.

Saving Private Ryan is an emotional and inspiring film about a unit squad sent on a dangerous mission during the World War II to save Private James Ryan (Matt Damon), a young soldier who went missing in Normandy, France and was the remaining alive son of his family because three of his brothers were killed in the war. The film realistically depict the horrifying events during the war and it highlights the heroic perspective on American soldiers. Led by Captain John Miller (Tom Hanks), the group of soldiers risk their lives in this impregnable but noble mission of saving one life. It is a powerful film where blood and gun shots were not tamed for the viewers. The whole movie stuck to its realistic approach and did not limit the gruesomeness of war.

Saving Private Ryan focused on the message how the battlefield during the war stretches up to the emotional and personal lives of every person affected by it. Even from the beginning of the movie, which opens with the American flag and a veteran visiting a cemetery then providing a flashback to the year 1944 on the Omaha Beach, the terrifying events endured by the American soldiers in hands of the Germans. It was a visually effective onslaught scene as the camera panned right and left, changing angles and point of views, in order to provide a complete picture of the soldiers fate. But through this scene, the film had also established the powerful role of the American nation during the war. The transition from the war zone to the house of the Ryans and back to the main battlefield in Normandy was a very effective strategy in demonstrating how multi-faced war is and how its impact reached even far continents.

Come and See is a moving film that delivers the horrifying events of the war while at the same time condemning the lasting damages it gave to the people. The movie is focused on the story of a young boy named Florya who was pushed to the war unwillingly and it recounts his experience of struggling for survival and the pride of his nation. The film unfolds from his perspective that was tempered and forced to maturity by the Second World War. Come and See is a film more focused on what would be the probable aftermath of the war. The director of the film was able to portray some of the most horrifying representations of the atrocities committed by the Nazis. The films vision of the war is tied with the quest for survival that the characters gained despite the hopelessness of their situation.

Both films have a set of exceptional actors and talented directors. This is one of the most important reasons why both films delivered effectively. Their characters are so real that the audience are easily affected by the cinematic scenes. The portrayal of deep sincerity in Saving Private Ryans main characters makes the terror of the war sink very effectively to the audience. Floryas acting was also superb that the audience are embraced by the hopelessness that war conveys. Also, the musical score of the two films also play significant impact in establishing the view of war that the movies were aiming to focus on. It sets the tone of the films and the phasing of the scenes so one would know what events are significantly important. For Come ans See, war is all ugly and destructive that if one does not know the real outcome of the war, he would assume terrible and hopeless faith for the Russian nation. While in Saving Private Ryan, the musical score helped established the sense of hope that could be anticipated by the viewers from the war.

One significant difference of the two films is their narrative structure. Saving Private Ryan centers significantly on the main war being fought by the soldiers focused on the story while Come and See moves through different warfares, covering different settings and narrating a macroscopic view of the war. The dialogues of the two films are also very different, and yet both techniques add impact to the film. Come and See comes from the perspective of the main protagonist so the audience feels like experiencing the war firsthand. Many conversations in the film incorporates grunts and random sounds and this adds to the realistic touch of the story. Saving Private Ryan, on the other hand, makes use of inspiring dialogues and emotional thought to give realism and human touch to the war. One of the best conversations in the film was when Capt. Miller and his team were only beginning in the journey and Miller was substantiating the reason why they must risk their lives for their mission that was deemed impossible by some of his men.

Come and See and Saving Private Ryan are two successful films that provide different views on the reality of war. The cinematic direction and strategies employed in filming the movies provide great impact in emphasizing the particular theme that the directors aim for the film. Concept on war vary and its representation in films is not only limited to the gory scenes, action-packed exchange of gun shots, or scenes of people dying. The two movies proved that the real essence of war comes more importantly in the stories of the people affected and changed by it.

The movie Coming to America is about an African prince who travels to America to find his wife. He was to marry a woman in his country by arrangement. However, the prince (Akeem, played by Eddie Murphy) is uncomfortable with having his wife chosen for him. He wants to find out what love feels like on his own terms.

Along the way, Akeem and his assistant, Semmi (Arsenio Hall), encounter the New York experience, complete with New York attitude. There are several stereotypes mentioned in the movie that I noticed. The robber trying to loot the McDonalds clone, McDowalls, is a black man, played by Samuel L. Jackson. Some people believe that was a slap to minorities who are often portrayed in movies and television programs as thugs, gang members and other malcontents. While it was commendable that Murphys Akeem daftly subdue the would-be criminal (using a mop handle and quietly sneaking up on him), it would have posed problems had the White employee (played by Louie Anderson) played the hero.

Another subtle the stereotype the movie used was when Akeem and Semmi looked for the worst apartment in Jamaica, Queens. I understand their motive for doing this not draw attention to them regarding their wealth. However, it underscores how a community may feel having a certain group of people living in certain sections of the city. It represents a certain socio-economic class that might reek of staying where they are and not moving out.

While neither prince is accustomed to their new surroundings, semi wants to at least make the place presentable. Akeem does not and because he is the boss and his word goes. It could be said of the stereotype of minorities not getting a fair shake in the world. Akeem chose to live in a poor section of the city, but many people do not have the luxury of choosing a nicer place to live

Speaking of nicer places, the fact that Akeem goes to America to find love is demeaning to women. In the opening scenes, Akeem makes his soon-to-be bride perform some foolish tasks, such as hop on one foot and make noises as she leaves the room. That was his reason for leaving for the states he does not want a subservient woman to become his wife.

While true that some cultures allow this tradition to continue, there are problems for impressionable kids who see this action as acceptable. Women are their own bosses and have as many thoughts, hopes, dreams and pride as men do. To have them looking like robots for the male-dominated society to toss them aside is wrong. Women are empowered to make their way in life as anyone else.

Another problem is the country itself. Many western people believe what they see on television is true. That is, there are millions of starving children throughout the continent who are severely malnourished and are dying at alarming rates. Even television commercials depict slum-like conditions for these people.

One teacher who came from Africa said the images shown on television are not
accurate. While some people are going daily without basic necessities (clean water, food, clothing, etc.) there are other areas of the country that are rich in tradition, heritage and money. The author said the movie does show the regality of the palace and the fact that some places are beautiful and carry plenty of weight on their own.

So far, we have looked at African-Americans and woman as categories of people who are depicted negatively in the film. Black men are also in this group as it relates to crime (already mentioned via the attempted robbery at the restaurant).

There is another stereotype played out by an African-American.
The woman Akeem woos (Lisa, played by Shari Headley) is already seeing another man, Darryl (played by Eriq LaSalle). Darryl is an egotist who only thinks of himself. During a church scene in which the offering plate is being passed around, Darryl waves off the plate and contributes nothing. The fact that he is cheap and took credit for the large donation (that was later donated by Akeem) speaks volumes for both men. Akeem is a confident man who wants to help others while Darryl is self-centered and only wants to help himself.

Later in the movie, when Akeem is introduced to Lisas parents, Darryl wants to get back into the picture. He is rejected by Lisas father, who learns of Akeems true identity. The father thinks that Akeem is better for his daughter because he is rich and would not have to work for a living (unlike him and Lisas ex-boyfriend, who worked as a spokesperson for hair-care products).

Money is the root of this problem, and that is something that runs across all socio-economic lines. It does not matter what color, race, sexual orientation comes into play, because as Akeem finds at the end is a bride who loves him for whom he is and not because of his social status back home.

At first, Lisa balks at going back with Akeem, but decided she loves him for who he is (kind, generous, etc). He been had to stand up to his father, the king, played by James Earl Jones, who said the arrange marriage needs to happen because that is their law. It was not until Akeems mother, who convinces her husband (and the king) to let Akeem choose whom we wants to marry for himself.
Pointing out the negative stereotypes in this movie proved to be easy. Also, keep in mind that the movie more than two decades old and some of the issues raised in this picture are not applicable to today (crimes are committed by all groups, for example). Not many people would take a leap of faith by leaving a life of plenty for one of wants and needs. In this case, Akeem wanted to find love and learned more about him. Akeem giving an elderly woman a pair of expensive earrings on the New York Subway is one example of generosity, and something that most likely would never, ever happen in reality.

The movie will make viewers think before raising more questions about the film. Overall, there is a lot to be learned.

The Corporation is Mark Achbads award-winning documentary, which explores the nature, evolution, impact, and future of corporations.  The documentary probes deeply into how corporations operate, what or who are involved, and the consequences of their actions. It is easy for corporations to get away with unethical and unlawful actions because, according to Baron Thurlow, There is no soul to save, there is no body to incarcerate.  Externalizing machine is what corporations are called in the documentary because they let someone else deal with the problem. Victims of corporate externalization are often the employees of the company, especially does who work in factories and sweatshops.

Charles Kernaghan, director of the National Labor Committee, took the crew of The Corporation for a tour in their stockroom where they store the items they subject under investigation.  One such item was a Liz Clairborne Jacket that was priced at 178.  Much to everyones surprise, the workers only got 74 cents for each jacket they made.  The documentary also presented cases of ridiculously cheap labor in other countries.  The Kathy Lee Gifford controversy, for example, took place in Honduras.  The irony of the situation was the laborers were mostly under 13 but the proceeds of the Kathy Lee Gifford products were supposed to go to various childrens charities.  Nike Internal Pricing documents were featured in the documentary.  Nike laborers in Dominican Republic normally took 6.6 minutes to make one product so they would be given 8 cents for the 6.6 minutes.  What laborers earn in sweatshops is not enough to buy them three square meals a day.  It does not help that they are exposed to various hazardous chemicals in sweatshops.

It is difficult to address this problem because most of the laborers refuse to leave their work in sweatshops. According to them, they earn as much as three times more than if they toil in the farmlands.  More than just internal monitoring conducted by the corporations in their respective factories, government institutions should closely monitor these corporations and provide a venue for employees and laborers to voice out their complaints and concerns.

As a sign of corporate responsibility, it is mandatory for corporations to have a Code of Conduct where employee and laborer rights are stipulated. In addition to this, it is the corporations job to police anomalies that go against the Code of Conduct. However, Esbenshade believes that private monitoring has been ineffective because monitoring practices are erratic auditors routinely miss violations and workers are by and large unaware of programs made to benefit them.  Corporations are confident enough to declare that they protect their workers simply because they have a Code of Conduct.  Independent monitoring  where local NGOs, or international NGOS working with local advocates, investigate code violations  should then be encouraged.  The organizations must also work hand-in-hand with workers responsible for monitoring so that the workers voices may be heard as much as possible. In addition to that, Unionization must be highly encouraged.

Corporations should always exercise transparency with their workers. They must make workers aware of their rights.  It is also important for corporations to provide protection to their workers because these workers are the people who provide the corporations profit.  These workers, therefore, should live a decent life by working in a healthy environment and being able to provide themselves with sufficient meals, a shelter, and other basic necessities.

Independent monitoring is always easier said than done. Corporations are powerful bodies and can still possibly manipulate their workers and drive away NGOs. It is also difficult for workers to take the risk of fighting for their rights because it is the corporations that provide them their bread and butter.  But a win-win situation is what everyone deserves. Both the corporation and the workers must gain to ensure sustainable prosperity so even if it is risky, what must be done  has to be done.