Through the Lens of a College Student

A picture is worth a thousand words. It may sound like a cliché statement, yet it proves to be true time and time again. Pictures can capture moments and ideas that are intangible and ones that mere words can not fully describe.

The context behind the image shown above is a woman standing against Pentagon guards as she offers them a flower. The image is from a protest against the Vietnam War and the main message is love over war. At the time many were against the Vietnam War and were protesting to stop troops from being sent over to fight. The image shows the power of peaceful protests with the stark contrast in the photo of love versus war.

One way the photographer truly conveys this message is through the layout of the photo with two contrasting sides. One on side is a row of guards wielding bayonets. The other side shows the flower girl holding a flower out to the guards. In the middle is the guns and the flower, which show just how different the two sides are and power of peace versus conflict.

A second way this image illustrates its powerful ideas is through the symbolism of the flower, which represents innocence, peace, and tranquility. On the other hand guns represent quite the opposite yet the two are coinciding in this image. Even the color contrast serves to show the different sides to this picture. The guards and guns are in black and the flower and girl are in pink and pastel colors.

Third, beyond the idea of peace and war this image shows the idea of the power of one. The girl on the right stands alone against the many guards on the left. Yet, she shows no fear in offering up the flower. The idea that even one person choosing to stand for what they believe in and the power they can hold is a topic represented in many powerful images. This image also chooses to utilize that idea to go along with promoting standing up against the war effort. One interesting thing to note is the girl is only seventeen when this picture was taken. Knowing that it shows that a person is never too young to have their own beliefs and to fight for what they believe in.

Even the emotional appeal serves to show contrast, which has been proven to be a common element in the photo.  The left side of the image gives a feeling of fear as the guards stand pointing their bayonets, yet look to the right side and the opposite is felt. Peace and calm are shown through the open pose of the girl and her facial expression.

It is time for the final post of my Passion blog! Throughout this blog I have showcased different shows and movies that have been recently popular. Each post delves into the storyline, characters, unique elements, and gives and overall review so each person can determine if they want to add it to their watch list.

The final choice is… Cobra Kai!

Based off of the 80’s classic movie series The Karate Kid, Cobra Kai shows how many of the main characters have ended up many years down the road. Following The Karate Kid’s antagonist, Johnny begins the series at a very low point in his life, but works to open his own karate dojo and teach students. He struggles along the way and does not always know how to make the right decision, but the layers of characterization are present and keep the audience rooting for him. The show includes many of the characters from the movies and includes flashbacks to tie together the show with events from the movies.

The creators of the show really used their creativity to create each characters life based on what was known about them from their high school selves. The audience sees Daniel LaRusso with a wife and children and even Johnny has a child, which provides interesting interactions as conflicts arise between both parents and children.

Many familiar elements were included to ensure fans of the movies had something to reminisce on, even with something as simple as Halloween costumes. Although there were repetitive elements throughout the show so far, the arrival of new characters and the dynamics of the characters as they face both internal and external conflicts keeps the show interesting.

The stark contrast between Johnny in The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai shows how a hot-headed rich teen turned into a cranky, yet humorous and out-of-touch with technology guy who is trying to get a fresh start and be the sensei that he never had.

As someone who grew up watching 80’s movies, The Karate Kid was a favorite of mine so I was very excited when this show aired. The series has done a good job of connecting to both audiences who grew up loving the movies, and those who are new to the series. I would recommend this series to people who enjoy either The Karate Kid or 80’s films in general since it maintained the same style, or to anyone who enjoys teen drama such as The Outsiders with the “us vs. them” style.

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCwwxNbtK6Y

It is that great time of the week to take a look at a new show or movie that is prominent in current media! The blog posts will include a summary, key elements, personal ratings and an overall recommendation.

The series to be showcased this week is… The Witcher

The Witcher is a fantasy drama show based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski. The series follows Geralt of Rivia, who is a monster hunter who tries to find his role in the world during a time of great conflict for the land. The show does an excellent job at world-building with the many regions, monsters, and even political conflicts shown. Watching this show I had never read the books, yet I quickly had a grasp on the characters, the lore of the land, and even the turmoil between the different regions.

The world of The Witcher is brutal and often unforgiving, making it a riveting show to watch. It is entirely its own show with its own blend of elements that are reminiscent of some of the most popular shows and films. It has the political intrigue of Game of Thrones and some of the world-building elements of The Lord of the Rings. If you enjoyed either of those then The Witcher is definitely something to watch.

Another interesting and unique aspect of the series is how the creators lay out the timeline. There are multiple timelines of the story that take place over 30 years apart at some points, yet the creators switch back and forth without much warning, especially earlier on until the timelines converge. This tool is used to provide much needed backstory, yet it can be confusing until much later in season one when it finally all clicks together.

Common in many fantasy novels, films, or shows, especially in the past, was the central strong male character and the female characters would always be depicted as weaker or needing saving. The Witcher shows a multitude of strong and powerful female characters that are very determined. The female characters are also dynamic and three-dimensional, which is important to note. For example, the audience is along for Yennefer’s journey to becoming a sorceress and sees her vulnerability due to her physical appearance and her sacrifices to reach her goals.

With multiple books and even a video game series there is a lot of content for fans to explore. Season two of The Witcher has been confirmed and shows a lot of potential. Season one gave a lot of backstory for the audience to digest so that subsequent seasons can really dive into the deep conflict and many characters.

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndl1W4ltcmg

Communication is such an important tool that connects so many people and is used to share ideas or stories. Media is especially useful as a form of sharing news and has been around for centuries. A paradigm shift has occurred with the forms of media evolving over time as technology and societal needs shift. It is important to understand how these changes have progressed throughout time to gain a better understanding of how people received their news and its impact. Not only does this directly correlate to technological advancements throughout the years but also societal changes, and can be used to predict how further shifts to media forms will continue to evolve.

The starting point for the shift is in the 18th century with the production of newspapers and penny papers to share news and relevant topics to the masses. Then the second shift takes place with the use of radio as a form of sharing news. The third shift is television, with news stations. The final shift takes the evolution to the present day with the use of the internet and social media to share news.

Along with the form of media shifting, so did the kinds of news shared and types of stories. For example, newspapers were created for those with a greater education background, while penny papers were for a wider audience. Newspapers would share the political and national news, while penny papers focused on the more entertaining, gossip-like stories. Even today with news being shared over the internet and even on social media, it is driven by data analytics. Based on previous viewing history, a person will have recommended news articles show up first since they are more likely to be interacted with.

I chose this topic because it surrounds us. The news is always on television or notifications popping up on our phones and we need to understand how it came to be. Additionally, we are seeing the effects of the shift currently. For example, print media such as newspapers is a declining industry as the internet takes over.

Paradigm shifts:

1. Newspapers and penny papers
2. Radio
3. Television
4. Internet and social media

Main question: How have media forms evolved over time in correlation with technology advancements and societal needs?

Subsidiary questions:

1. How have the uses for media and types of news shifted over time?
2. How has each media form been available or accessible and to who?
3. How has media impacted society?

 

It is time for another passion blog! I will be analyzing another new and popular show by giving a brief summary, highlighting some important elements, and giving an overall recommendation for if this show is truly worthy of the audience’s time. This week I picked a show that transformed a children’s animated show into a live-action series created specifically for a teen audience.

Let’s take a look at Fate: The Winx Saga!

In 2004 Winx Club aired. It is a show aimed at a young audience that focuses on fairies who are best friend and face magical challenges along their journey. Seventeen years later Fate: The Winx Saga aired, which turns the children’s animated show into a grittier teen show and the original audience who grew up watching the cartoon is in the age range to connect to this show.

The true challenge for the series was finding a way to incorporate the core story, elements, and characters into the show while also adapting to a new audience age range. Many of the same characters appear as Bloom learns of her powers and goes on a journey of self-discovery with her new friends. Yet, the same feeling of friendship does not carry over. Instead of being best friends the girls struggle to find common ground against their vast differences. As the story progresses the relationships progress but the slightly forced feeling of friendship remains, which can make it hard for the audience to connect to the characters fully.

The show does do a great job at creating and showcasing the world in which the series takes place. A magical school is not a new and groundbreaking setting, yet the show uses interesting ways to incorporate the characters everyday life, such as classes, to teach the audience about the setting.

The plot is another important element this show worked to keep intriguing as they incorporated sub-plots into a larger overall plot for the season. The main plot is entirely different from the material covered in the original show, even though there are similar elements. This is good because it makes the show feel new and not like a slightly darker version of the exact same show.

The ending of season one left many questions unanswered and reveals the potential for future seasons. Hopefully the next season will continue to develop the interesting storyline laid out in the first season, while also incorporating fresh elements. Character development will be important for this show to continue beyond just one more season. If a strong bond is not developed than the audience may lose interest at the repetitive clashing. Overall, this show is interesting and if you have free time I would recommend it to be added to your watch list as a good but not great show.

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfXRud1AIiw

I chose a Ted Talk called, “Does Photographing a Moment Steal the Experience from You?” by Erin Sullivan.

Erin Sullivan: Does photographing a moment steal the experience from you? | TED Talk

Currently, people have differing views surrounding the ideas of living in the moment with regards to taking photos and posting to social media. This Ted Talk describes Erin Sullivan’s personal experience with this issue, since she is a photographer who travels and posts to social media. She describes how there is a fine line between enjoying an experience and only being there for the photo, and much of that can be determined by the person’s intent.

The paradigm shift that Sullivan wants is one of thought and actions. When a person travels to a new location, is with friends, or is at a social gathering, it is important to first and foremost be present in the moment and not solely focusing on getting that perfect Instagram shot. She stresses that people can take photos without it ruining the moment as long as it is not the reason a person is there at all and as long as it does not overtake the experience. Sullivan lays out the steps people can take to ensure this paradigm shift takes effect, which includes stopping before taking a photo, looking around and connecting to nature or the people around.

One of the most important ideas to be taken from this Ted Talk is that there is no one answer to the question, “Does taking photos ruin the experience?”. Instead, it is all about making sure to find balance and stopping to think before taking the photo. She also touches on the idea of understanding when it is not ok to take a photo, giving the example of sacred Native American land. The message and intent of this speech did a good job at connecting to people by promoting personal awareness and social awareness.

Sullivan delivered her speech by conveying her message through examples of personal experience. She has traveled to beautiful, photo-worthy locations and has taken many photos, so she understand the topic she is speaking on. Those specific examples combined with her own photos helped to turn a mere speech into a story-telling presentation with a powerful message many people can use in their everyday life.

It is time for part five in the Passion blog series! This week I will showcase another show or film and delve into the important topics it covers, as well as what makes it unique. The show I picked for this week took social media by storm, with people even adapting some of the clothing styles.

The show for this week is… Bridgerton!

Bridgerton is a romance-drama series that takes place during the Regency Era, following the life of the members of the Bridgerton family as they navigate high-society life. In season one the main focus is Daphne Bridgerton, the eldest daughter who is looking for a suitable husband. This show takes into account the struggles of a female during that time. They had little choice or freedom and noble ladies were raised to find good matches, even starting at the young ago of sixteen. Yet, the series also shows marriage and love is not what all ladies strive for, such as younger sister Eloise, which represents a different perspective.

Also, many period dramas do not always connect to a larger audience, either due to lack of representation or having no unique feature to help the series stand out. Bridgerton is a breath of fresh air because it incorporates a modern take on a historical time. For example, how often does a period show incorporate “Thank You, Next” by Ariana Grande in classical form into their show? Also, the cast is quite diverse, which is often not included in European historical pieces. This show is not meant to be historically accurate, instead it strives to connect to the audience and entertain them.

Bridgerton goes beyond the plot and characters to create a beautiful visual experience. The costume and hair design is always unique and intricate. In total, there were an estimate of 5,000 costumes used throughout the first season of the show. The show used the classic empire silhouette of the time, but included modern renditions such as a more scoop neckline to create a distinct look.

With such great success from the release of the first season and a second season in the works, it is important to see how the show can continue the storyline. Although Daphne was the central focus of season one, many other characters had their own interesting subplots, which shows promise for future seasons to keep the audience’s attention. It has been revealed that season two will shift this focus to Anthony, Daphne’s older brother as he tries to meet the expectations set for him as Lord of the Bridgerton family.

I would recommend this show for people to watch. It is a binge-worthy series that connects to a larger audience and is a unique and fun viewing experience.

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpv7ayf_tyE

Bumper stickers can range in message from political campaigns and social issues to quirky messages and stick figure families. Yet, not many people take the time to realize how important bumper stickers can be to spread messages. That is why it is important to think about the message a person may want to share with those around them as they drive their car in day-today life.

Environmental bumper stickers such as the one above are popular choices since it is a very prominent issue everyone faces today. This specific sticker is encouraging people to take note of the role they play in the environment and realize everyone must come together, acting as one to make an impact and create change.

To understand what the sticker is referring to and what it wants the viewer to take away, a person has to understand the current state of the environment, as well as concepts regarding climate change. The role of people in the environment is also an important piece of knowledge that is necessary beforehand. People need to work to combat climate change since it is not something that can be fixed without any intervention.

It also focuses on the commonplaces of people forming groups with others who share similarities and generally wanting to help those around them. If a group of people face a similar struggle then it is common for them to stick together to help each other and have a level of understanding. The sticker uses those commonplaces to show how we are all the same in this aspect. No one is immune to the effects of climate change, so it is everyone’s duty to work together towards this common goal.

The sticker combines these ideas logically to create two distinct points “One Planet” and “One People”. By connecting these points along with prior knowledge on the topic it shows the direness of the situation since there is only one Earth and there is no second chance if irreversible environmental damage is made. Also, it serves as a call to action for people to not only protect the environment, but to also do it together as one. It uses the idea that although everyone has differences, climate change affects each and every person, so it is everyone’s responsibility to work in unity to fix the issue.

In so few words this sticker effectively relays the message and shows the intent of calling people to act. The background knowledge, use of commonplaces, and word choice, specifically the use of the word “One”, all serve to create a convincing bumper sticker that would catch the eye of anyone driving.

 

Welcome back to part four of my passion blog series! I showcase a variety of shows and movies, including key elements that make it unique, as well as a recommendation or type of audience that would enjoy the show.

The show of the week is… The Mandalorian!

The Mandalorian had a lot to live up to when it first aired. Many hardcore fans of Star Wars have high expectations and strong opinions whenever a new film or show airs, but this was the first show to be live-action, making it brand-new territory. The show works to incorporate a new storyline and new characters into an already existing cinematic universe, while also featuring characters and locations from past works. Since there are so many Star Wars films and shows and not every fan has seen them all the key for the creators was to ensure the storyline could be followed and enjoyable for the average viewer, while also including elements that more avid fans could notice.

The plot follows main protagonist Din Djarin, a Mandalorian bounty hunter, who travels the galaxy until he comes across a baby with unique capabilities. This takes him on a journey to protect the child, while also learning more about the child’s powers. Unique plots are intertwined as they travel to new planets, helping those they meet along the way.

A major theme present throughout the storyline is the idea of fatherhood. Din becomes a father figure to the child unexpectedly and has to learn how to fill this uncharacteristic role for himself. Over the course of the show their relationship strengthens and they form a level of trust. Additionally, the adorable child brings in great appeal to a younger audience and is a fan favorite.

Watching a show is meant to be an entertaining and natural experience. Nothing should feel forced. The plot should flow and characters should have a purpose, which is one good aspect to this show. Something that stands out is the representation. For example, there are many strong female characters and even a scene of just them fighting alone. Yet, it feels completely natural and not like the creators purposely did it just to appeal to women, which can be an issue in the film industry.

The show currently has two seasons and is planning on a third. There is still a lot of content to explore, which shows a lot of promise for the future of the show. Overall, I would recommend this show to watch. It does require some knowledge of Star Wars, but the viewer does not have to know everything.

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOC8E8z_ifw

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eW7Twd85m2g

Mother’s Day: a day to celebrate mother’s, or anyone who fills such a role, and show them appreciation. Now what better way can a mother spend Mother’s Day than cleaning with a Mr. Clean sponge?

This ad is promoting the idea that on Mother’s Day, a mother should be cleaning the house with a Mr. Clean sponge. As quoted in the article it is “the job that really matters”. The sexist tones of this advertisement are blatant and honestly quite surprising that the ad was even approved. The word choice, the visual imagery of the mother and daughter, and the persuasive message all make this ad sexist and a terrible choice for boosting their public image.

The word choice is one of the most striking elements of this ad. The use of the word “job” indicates that the role of women is to be in the home doing domestic duties such as cleaning or cooking. It entirely diminishes the effort of so many women to hold equal value in the workforce without facing backlash. It implies that cleaning the home is more important than being in the workforce, when it is entirely a woman’s choice.

Additionally, by including a mother and daughter in the image, Mr. Clean may have attempted to create a sentimental image that stretches across two generations, when in reality it only perpetuates sexist ideas onto the younger generation. The company believes its audience will be in agreement with its ad and will therefore buy the product for Mother’s Day, so women will make the choice to clean with the Magic Eraser. Instead, it only serves to create a general distaste as it continues the idea that young girls should spend their time cleaning, as shown with the little girl looking up to her mother cleaning.

The overall message conveyed in the ad is also poorly constructed and thought out. If the goal of the company creating this ad was to sell more Magic Erasers than they picked the wrong target audience. First, the message is only directed towards women, perpetuating the idea that woman are the primary people who clean in society. An alternative message could have left out any mention of Mother’s Day and instead shown family bonding through household work, but this could include all members of the family, rather than only women.