Empowerment and Social Change, Term Paper Example

The films Calendar Girls (2022) and Raise the Bar (2021) explore empowerment and social change themes. Both films revolve around female protagonists who challenge stereotypes and cultural norms to pursue their dreams. This essay will analyze the two films using a selection of readings from the list of sources and explore the films’ concepts, ideas, and components that can be used for anthropological analysis. By comparing the two films, this essay will analyze how they are similar and different thematically and how they explore ideas of empowerment and social change in a cinematic way.

In his book, Berger argues that “what we see is not just determined by our physical and mental capacities, but also by the whole culture in which we live and which has shaped us” (Berger, 1972). According to him, the purpose of documentary film is to reveal what is hidden and forgotten, to revive the power of what is known, and to awaken the feeling of what is possible. From this perspective, the two films can be seen as a way to challenge the status quo and empower those whose voices may have been previously marginalized. Collier’s (1986) visual anthropology provides another valuable framework for analysis. From his perspective, the two films can be seen as a way to document the changing social landscape and how it affects the lives of those involved. By exploring the themes of empowerment and social change, these films can provide an important reminder of the importance of understanding the past to shape the future. Similarly, Davis (2021) argues that a visual culture is a powerful tool for understanding and intervening in social and political dynamics. From this perspective, the two films can be seen as a way to explore the potential for empowerment and social change through visual media. By examining how the films depict the characters and their stories, one can better understand the forces at work in society and how they can use them to create positive change.

Calendar Girls (2022) follows the story of a dance troupe of women over sixty who challenge traditional notions of age and ability by performing in unconventional settings. The film uses the camera’s frame to convey the women’s joy and strength and the struggles they face in their lives. The camera angle emphasizes the women’s powerful movements and their undying spirit despite their age. The voice of the narrator is uplifting and empowering, while the music is upbeat and inspiring. The design of the characters is also crucial, as they are depicted as strong and capable despite their age.

In contrast, Raise the Bar (2021) follows the story of a girls’ basketball team in Iceland that challenges the traditional notions of gender in sports. The camera’s frame focuses on the girls’ struggles and determination to succeed. The photograph’s angle emphasizes the girls’ strength and resilience, and the narrator’s voice is encouraging and optimistic. The story highlights the importance of challenging traditional expectations and the power of teamwork. The design of the characters is also crucial, as they are depicted as strong and capable despite the obstacles they face.

In conclusion, both films explore the themes of empowerment and social change. Using theoretical frameworks from Berger, Collier, and Davis, this essay has analyzed the movie from an anthropological perspective. By examining how the films depict the characters and their stories, one can better understand the forces at work in society and how we can use them to create positive change. The two films serve as a reminder of the power of visual media and its potential to challenge the status quo and empower those whose voices may have been previously marginalized.

References

Berger, J. (1972). The Ways of Seeing. London: British Broadcasting Corporation.

Collier, J. (1986). Visual anthropology: Photography as a research method. Albuquerque: University of Mexico Press.

Davis, W. (2011). A general theory of visual culture. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press.