arnold is big

So I wonder if we are buying the fascist argument? Are there other sorts of claims you can make about Pumping Iron?

People in Grizzly Bear Costumes

Herzog's ongoing VO commentary resides somewhere between an intense interest in reality and a (contemporary) concern for intersubjectivity. Through this odd (read: not usual in doc) blend he both challenges the importance of the documentary (form) while still maintaining an interest in the real.

There is a poetic assigning of meaning at every turn, almost ignoring a statement in the middle of the film that Treadwell didn't "realize that seemingly empty moments had a strange, secret beauty." Or, from the last scene of the film: "Out of all the bears we see, only in this one do I not see reflection only the indifference of nature."

SHERMAN's MARCH

Here's a space for response to the film for this week.

Don't Look Back

Please feel free to leave your analysis/engagement of the film here.

The Thin Blue Line

So? What of it?

TITICUT FOLLIES

That's right: there's no assigned reading for this week's film. Enjoy. However, there will be class discussion, beginning with a wrap-up of our talk about Grey Gardens and style, which should then segue into a discussion of Wiseman's film, done as well in a "direct cinema" manner.

What sorts of 'readings' can you give to Titicut Follies? Although there's not much story (it's about this place and these people but not in a linear, cause-effect way), there is style. What do you make of this style? Can you imagine choosing such a style for a documentary you are making? What are the shortcomings/advantages?

Grey Gardens

I totally appreciate our initial discussions of the film, as we exposed a dichotomy I've not noticed prompted by any other film we have watched this semester. I am eager to learn more about it. You can start such conversations here.