1.) As we watch progress through the film, "The Hurt Locker", how is the idea of realism being used for this movie? What kind of effects do you think this has on viewers?
In this movie, I believe that the idea of realism is being used to depict the way that the soldiers really do act when they are faced every day with the dangers that lied within the Iraqi war zone. Many former-soldiers have said or have been reported as to having PTSD effects after watching this movie because it so much like what really happened for them when they were there. I believe that this has an immense effect on the viewers, but in a very good way. The realism associated with this movie is obviously of a high standard if it causes former soldiers to bring back PTSD symptoms after watching it because of the close resemblance to what truly happened. The viewers of this movie, I hope, feel as if they are watching what really happened during the Iraqi/Afghan war.
2.) What do you think your biggest take away is from this class? What would be a suggestion to make the class better for next year?
I think the part of this class that I will take with me would be questioning what is actually true in the movies that I watch, but also what the director is trying to say with the movie. My suggestion towards next years' class to make it better would be to allow them to make their own documentary or movie project, as a class or in larger groups, and let them be the directors and writers and have others interpret what the message is behind the project.
