"There's nothing to forgive."
Today, with this film, we continue our journey into some essential questions raised in our experience of art: "what is the nature of humanity?" and "what is the potential of humanity?" Who are we, and what makes us who we are? Is there a moral imperative that directs our path, or do we construct a morality that suits our intentions? Is there such a thing as evil? Is there such a thing as good? Do we choose between them, or do we simply fall into categories that conveniently describe our behavior?
As you work your way through this film, think carefully about the ethical purpose that drove McQueen to make this film. You've already seen a film by Steve McQueen--Hunger--so you know he is very invested in social issues that many of us would rather ignore or pretend do not still matter. Try to frame your question and debatable statements with Steve McQueen in mind. He is such a daring filmmaker, not just in the way he shoots and edits his material, but in the types of stories he is willing to tell.
Some questions for us to consider:
- What is the narrative frame? Even without voice-over, does this film have a narrator?
- Why do you think McQueen decided NOT to use voice-over in this film? Unlike The Thin Red Line, the interludes in this film are typically silent instead of filled with commentary from one character or another.
- What is the shape of the plot?
- If you've watched to the end, you might say that this film is redemptive. On what basis could we say it is (or is not)?
- Is the content of this film more overwhelming than McQueen's Hunger, or any of the other films we watched that feature traumatic experiences?
- This film does not shy away from racist language--should we tolerate/accept/embrace the artistic use of such language given the story that this film attempts to tell?
- Should this brutal story, being based on a true one, be presented as film for our consumption?
- Does this film present a realistic view of slave conditions and treatment in the South?
- Does this film present a universal view of slave conditions and treatment in the South?
- Does this film (as a work of art) make an argument against slavery? If so, then why? I mean, is it not generally accepted now that slavery is evil and has justifiably been abolished as a sanctioned economic model?
- Is slavery a national evil?
Your questions and statements should encourage the exchange of ideas between you and your peers. You may ask additional questions about your concerns and confusions, but for the main content of your posting, try to think hard about ideas that relate to the heart of the film, how it's made, and what it achieves as a story. Including clip descriptions that your questions and statements relate to can help your classmates understand your meaning.
