Film in Literature Blog #3

This wasn't my first time seeing "To Kill a Mockingbird" either. I like the films that we've been watching in this class because they are very cultural. Back in sixth grade, I read the book as well. In that time, I was learning a lot about racism and the way it worked during the times of my ancestors. Although, in that time the book and the movie were more for educational purposes than what it means to me now. Now, I watch the movie, and it appeals to my emotions as well as my knowledge. There were many things I picked up in the film that I wasn't completely able to understand back then. One of the more interesting topics that Ms. Bavaro introduced to the class was the fact that the book has been banned from schools because of the use of the "N" word. Although, it suddenly became notable to me that the movie is a good way to take pity on racism. Atticus explains to his daughter Scout why she shouldn't use the word. I also was taken back by the way Tom Robinson was put to blame. Every time this topic is brought up, it always takes me back because interracial relationships are so common and accepted today. And the fact that this entire trial took place just because Mayella's father caught her kissing a black man completely blows my mind. thought this film was a really good way to discuss societal issues that existed in the past. It also was a nice form of education and entertainment. 10/10 would recommend the book and the movie!!!

Film in Literature Blog #2

- This wasn't my first time seeing Precious. Although, it was my first time really understanding it. When I watched it the first time, I was between the ages of 11-12. I didn't really understand the whole concept of poverty, child abuse, and rape. Therefore, I only saw the humor in the movie. The funny parts were the only parts I really paid any attention to. It was interesting to feel the contrast in reaction this time. This time, my eyes were opened. I realized that there are a lot of things that go on in this world that we don't pay much attention to unless it has anything to do with us. It also made me realize that sometimes, I can be extremely ungrateful and unappreciative towards my mother. I'm really rude to her sometimes, not realizing that I could have it much worse. The movie truly does make you appreciate the better things in life. Not only family wise, but school and wealth wise as well. The way our school system is set up is way more organized and accepting than the school system in the movie. Although I don't have money to buy everything in the world that I want, I still have money to live better than most. Like I said, this movie was very eye opening and helped me to realize that I need to stop taking advantage of all the better things in life. 

Film in Literature blog #1

        I'm writing about Anthony Beltran's movie "Rebel" and also "The Holy Grail". I thought it was interesting to see the sort of contrast between the two movies. "Rebel" was a serious movie about the struggles of high school. Although there were some funny parts, Anthony really explored all the different things we go through in high school. As for "The Holy Grail", Python was more satirical and funny, not really exploring any sort of serious topics. "Rebel" explored many different issues such as bullying, relationships, and friendship. The main character was played by a student at Rush named Mark Mariano. His character struggled the most with being bullied and being made fun of. He was sort of isolated and never really accepted by anyone. Except for one girl, played by another student here at Rush of whom I do not know the name. This is where the relationship conflict came into play. The girl struggled in an abusive relationship with a guy played by Shawn Cleary, another student here at Rush. On the down low, this girl and Mark smiled at each other, made each other happy and feel accepted. "The Holy Grail", on the other hand, was a satire mimicking the typical renaissance flick. The author found the irony in the battles, the journey's, and everything that can be found in your regular renaissance film. Both of these films were interesting to watch, and kept me engaged the entire time. I thought it was really cool to see two totally different films in the same week and make the comparison. 10/10 would recommend.