IFM2022: Mimesis Through Violent Movement by Fiona Haborak

Summary

The video script explores the intersection of horror, documentary, and political mimesis, emphasizing how cinematic violence impacts spectators on physical and emotional levels. Drawing on the works of Sergei Eisenstein and film scholar Jane Gaines, it discusses how horror films engage viewers, prompting them to reflect and potentially act in response to societal issues. Through the analysis of Eisenstein's 'October' and the film 'Daybreakers,' the script highlights the role of movement and the spectator's body in experiencing violence, ultimately suggesting that horror films serve as a mirror for societal anxieties and a catalyst for political engagement.

Takeaways

• 😀 Computational thinking involves problem-solving skills applicable across various domains.
• 😀 It emphasizes breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts.
• 😀 Learning computational thinking enhances critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities.
• 😀 Hands-on activities and real-world examples help reinforce computational thinking concepts.
• 😀 Incorporating technology in education promotes engagement and motivation among students.
• 😀 Collaboration and teamwork are essential components of effective computational problem-solving.
• 😀 Computational thinking is not limited to computer science; it can be applied in fields like mathematics and science.
• 😀 Teaching methods should be adaptable to cater to diverse learning styles and preferences.
• 😀 Educators should encourage a growth mindset, fostering resilience and perseverance in students.
• 😀 Continuous practice and application of computational thinking can lead to improved outcomes in learning.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the discussed paper?

The paper examines how horror films facilitate dialogue about social change by exploring the bodily experience of spectators and the political implications of witnessing violence on screen.

How does the concept of political mimesis relate to horror films?

Political mimesis suggests that witnessing and engaging with filmic violence can provoke emotional and physical responses in viewers, potentially leading them to act or reflect on social issues.

Who is Jane Gaines and what is her contribution to the discussion?

Jane Gaines is a film scholar whose work on documentaries is referenced to apply her notion of political mimesis to speculative fiction, including horror films, to understand viewer engagement.

What role does Sergei Eisenstein play in this analysis?

Eisenstein's cinematic techniques and language devices are used to explore how movement and violence in films can evoke strong reactions from viewers, contributing to the paper's argument about the politicization of the spectator's body.

How does the paper connect horror films to historical events?

The paper analyzes parallels between horror films and historical narratives, suggesting that horror reflects contemporary social issues and allows viewers to process violence in a way that relates to their own experiences.

What is the 'figurine crisis' mentioned in the transcript?

The figurine crisis refers to a disconnect between the representation of movement in film and the audience's experience, highlighting how viewers react to on-screen violence and the emotional turmoil it evokes.

How do filmmakers use mimesis to affect spectators?

Filmmakers utilize mimesis to create a connection between the audience and on-screen characters, prompting viewers to engage emotionally and physically with the film's narrative.

What does the paper suggest about the viewer's role in horror films?

It suggests that viewers are no longer passive witnesses; instead, they are moved to contemplate action and engage with the film's themes, particularly regarding social and political issues.

How does horror facilitate empathy and social reflection?

Horror films invoke somatic empathy, allowing viewers to feel the pain and experiences of characters, which can lead to deeper reflections on societal violence and personal reactions to it.

What insights does the paper provide about the emotional impact of violence in horror films?

The paper posits that the violence depicted in horror films serves not only to shock but also to provoke thoughtful engagement and potentially inspire viewers to consider their own responses to real-world violence.