How should the Anthropocene be filmed?
Should films about the Anthropocene tell their audiences a progressive (things are generally getting better) or a declensionist (things are generally getting worse) story? Why do you think that? In an essay (1500 words), we are asking you to compare two documentaries about the Anthropocene and explain which documentary—in your view—offers a better interpretation of the Anthropocene:
1) David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet,directed by Alastair Fothergill, Jonathan Hughes, Keith Scholey
and
2) All That Breathes, directed by Shaunek Sen
You don’t need to do any outside research, but you need to read and respond carefully to the director Shaunek Sen’s interview with Amy Goodman and Jerrine Tan’s “Watching A Life on Our Planet”.
Please use the following prompt to write your essay.
-The essay must have 1500 words, about 5 pages (don't worry if your word count goes over that number by ~200 words)
-Each paragraph is about 200 words. Each paragraph should discuss both documentaries (EXCEPT for the scene unpacked paragraph) AND clearly explain which doc does a better job with the paragraph prompt.
Introductory paragraph:
-How should the Anthropocene be filmed---things are getting better or things are getting worse? Why do you think that?
-Explain which documentary—in your view—offers a better interpretation of the Anthropocene
-Paragraph 1 on Aesthetics (how the films are put together in terms of looks and sounds)
-Paragraph 2 on Telling a story (what is the narrative that the filmmakers created? Is it the best choice about beginning, middle, and end? Does the narrative have the best trajectory—things getting better or getting worse or hard to tell?)
-Paragraph 3 on Who exactly is the “we” in the story? Is it mostly a single person? A group of people? From a specific time or place? Why do you think the filmmakers made that particular choice?
-Paragraph 4 on how (if at all) do the filmmakers tell their audiences to do something political, economic, social, aesthetic, ecological, etc., about the Anthropocene? In other words, do you think film should be primarily an instrument for change in the world or is it enough to make something beautiful and/or provocative for viewers to experience?
-Paragraph 5 in the doc with the “better interpretation” pick one important five-minute segment (scene) from the documentary that you want to unpack in detail. You will explain what you think the filmmakers were trying to accomplish in the scene and how the scene itself “worked.” How did the choice of subject, shot selection and duration, framing within the shot, narration and interviews (or lack thereof), music, and/or editing come together to make the scene work together? Why does this scene capture the Anthro the best?
-Conclusion paragraph: Imagine what you might remember from this film in five years? What parts or take-aways do you hope to remember from watching and writing about these two films? Which piece—Sen interview or Tan review—made a bigger impression on you regarding the Anthropocene on film?
-In addition, your essay must be organized (what are the links among your insights, evaluations, or evidence? how does one paragraph lead to the second and so on?), well-written, proofread, and it must demonstrate your critical, thoughtful response to both films. Can use first-person pronouns like “I” or “We.” You should include a bibliography or works cited list or footnotes. Whatever citation style you use (Chicago, APA, etc.), just use the citation style consistently and correctly.
Filming the Anthropocene: A Comparative Analysis of "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" and "All That Breathes"
The Anthropocene, a term used to describe the current geological age where human activities have significantly impacted the Earth's ecosystems, presents a complex narrative that filmmakers must navigate. Should films about the Anthropocene portray a progressive or declensionist story? In this essay, we will compare two documentaries that tackle the Anthropocene: "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" and "All That Breathes." By examining their aesthetics, storytelling, target audience, call to action, and a scene unpacked from each film, we will determine which documentary offers a better interpretation of the Anthropocene.
Aesthetics
In terms of aesthetics, "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" stands out for its breathtaking cinematography and immersive sound design. The visuals are stunning, showcasing the beauty of nature juxtaposed with the devastating effects of human activities. The use of sweeping shots of landscapes and close-ups of wildlife creates a sense of connection between the audience and the natural world. On the other hand, "All That Breathes" takes a more experimental approach to aesthetics, with unconventional framing and editing techniques. The film's visuals are abstract and thought-provoking, challenging viewers to think beyond traditional documentary styles. While both documentaries excel in their visual presentation, "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" offers a more accessible and emotionally engaging aesthetic experience for audiences.
Telling a Story
In terms of storytelling, "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" follows a traditional narrative structure, with David Attenborough recounting his life experiences and observations of environmental change. The film takes viewers on a journey from the past to the present, highlighting the drastic changes that have occurred in Attenborough's lifetime. This narrative arc effectively conveys the urgency of addressing environmental issues and offers a hopeful message of redemption through collective action. Conversely, "All That Breathes" takes a more abstract and nonlinear approach to storytelling, weaving together different perspectives on the Anthropocene through fragmented vignettes. While this unconventional narrative style may be intellectually stimulating, it lacks the emotional resonance and clarity of "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet." Overall, the narrative trajectory of "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" effectively communicates the urgency of addressing environmental challenges.
Who is the "We" in the Story?
The choice of perspective in a documentary can significantly impact how audiences relate to the subject matter. In "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet," the central figure is David Attenborough himself, whose personal reflections serve as a lens through which viewers experience the impact of human activities on the environment. By focusing on Attenborough's journey and insights, the film creates a sense of intimacy and personal connection with the narrator. In contrast, "All That Breathes" features a more diverse range of voices and perspectives, highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings in the Anthropocene. While this approach offers a more holistic view of the issue, it may lack the emotional depth and resonance of a singular narrative like Attenborough's. Ultimately, the choice of perspective in "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" effectively engages audiences on a personal level.
Call to Action
Filmmakers have a unique opportunity to inspire change through their work by encouraging audiences to take action in response to pressing environmental issues. In "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet," there is a clear call to action embedded in Attenborough's message: we must act now to preserve our planet for future generations. The film presents concrete steps that individuals and governments can take to mitigate climate change and protect biodiversity. By offering practical solutions and highlighting success stories, the documentary empowers viewers to make a difference in their own lives. On the other hand, "All That Breathes" takes a more subtle approach to advocacy, focusing on raising awareness and provoking thought rather than prescribing specific actions. While this approach may be intellectually stimulating, it may not be as effective in mobilizing audiences to enact change. Overall, "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" provides a more compelling call to action for viewers.
Scene Unpacked
One important five-minute segment from "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" that captures the essence of the Anthropocene is when Attenborough visits Chernobyl. The filmmakers use this scene to illustrate the catastrophic consequences of human activities on the environment. The choice of subject matter is powerful, as Chernobyl serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of nuclear energy and the long-term impacts of environmental disasters. The shot selection and duration emphasize the desolate landscape and abandoned buildings, creating a sense of eerie emptiness and loss. The framing within the shot conveys a sense of isolation and desolation, mirroring the devastating effects of human intervention in nature. The narration by Attenborough provides context and emotional depth to the scene, guiding viewers through the significance of what they are witnessing. The haunting music enhances the somber mood and underscores the gravity of the situation. Overall, this scene effectively encapsulates the challenges and complexities of the Anthropocene.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" and "All That Breathes" offer valuable insights into the Anthropocene, "David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet" emerges as the stronger documentary in terms of aesthetics, storytelling, target audience engagement, and advocacy for change. Its compelling narrative arc, powerful visuals, and poignant call to action make it a persuasive and impactful exploration of the challenges facing our planet. In five years, viewers are likely to remember the urgent message of hope and responsibility conveyed by David Attenborough's film. Ultimately, it is films like these that have the power to inspire meaningful action and shape our collective response to the Anthropocene.