Waking up from what?

The main claims brought up in this essay are quite compelling; Danahay and Reider talk about the similarities shared in Karl Marx’s theories and the Matrix. One of the main arguments they discussed was how even though the Matrix is an unforgettable film it lacks that last bit to actually “wake” anybody up. Sure it was a great film with timeless themes, and awesome special effects, but some of the topics brought up in this essay concerning Karl Marx’s theories can really raise some eye brows. One example in particular is how they said that the Matrix would have made a deeper impact if that in the movie the “Matrix” were to be shot in black and white and the real world be only shot in color. To emphasize the difference in what is wrong, what we are missing.
Another really interesting topic discussed is the bliss of ignorance. The character of Cypher, sure he was a jerk, but he played a very important role in the Matrix. The idea of how some people don’t want to accept the truth/reality, they are content in their ignorance. I know it sounds absurd, but when you think of it. To be free in the real world; with the knowledge of the machines ruling, humans being “copper tops” living underground. … Or would you rather live in ignorance in service to the machines but with all the luxuries of the Matrix, its fake society, false senses. Pretty much comes down to a juicy stake with a side of bullshit, or a plate of sloppy goop with reality?
Even though there were many interesting points made in this essay, it would take weeks to fully analyze all of it. The most interesting concept posed in this essay to me was the idea of dialectical thinking, and Neo’s battle with his two half’s. An example of Neo’s dialectical journey can be seen in the scene with Morpheus, when he offers Neo the red and blue pill and his reflections are separated into two, the red, and blue reflection. The idea of dialectical thinking is relevant to everyday life, like photography is to film. Neo’s journey is expressed through various shots, in the oracles doorknob, to his reflection in the spoon, many examples can be drawn. I agree with many of the statements made by both authors, their way of thinking and interpreting has opened this film up in many different ways for me. To even be able to analyze and intelligently think about the Martix has raised many questions and eyebrows, and is to a journey I have not completed.

eXistenZ - Matrix Meaningful questions

Both movies “ The Matrix “, and “ eXistenZ ” are films that question our sense of reality. Both made roughly around the same time, yet one far more popular then the other, I think that both directors did a fantastic job, in their attempt to translate such complicated themes and concepts. One thing these films both have in common, “what it means to be seduced or deceived by artificial versions of reality.” –Cynthia Freeland (PATM) Pg. 213 In retrospect the idea of being seduced or deceived is seen in a negative light, they both explore the “bad” and “good” of an artificial reality. In “The Matrix” it can be said that the differences between both the real and fake world or obvious, once you’ve been released, but those still in the matrix, which have never been unplugged will never know the difference/truth. In “eXistenZ” you can never really tell what’s real, and what’s fake, sort of keeping the viewers and the characters in limbo. By the end of “The Matrix” the characters and the viewers both know the difference between reality, and the matrix. Where at the end of “ eXistenZ” the last line is “ are we still in the game? “
The question is which movie questions the nature of reality in a more meaningful way. Its not a question of which movie was better, or which had better special effects and explosions, because if that were the case the matrix would win hands down. But from a philosophical standpoint both movies can almost bee seen as identical. Personally if I had to choose which presented a more meaningful question I would have to choose the matrix
The matrix presented the false hood of humans being enslaved and obvious. To referrer to “ Allegory of the cave” the fact that humans are blissfully unaware, and when faced with the truth, cannot cope. Where eXistenZ explores the opposite idea of that, where people are the ones putting themselves in this false reality. The reason think the matrix question is more meaningful is because if you think about how far the human race has come, we are still so ignorant. The matrix for me questions reality as a whole. How from waking up to going to work, living and dying is all for nothing, as your real body lies in a tube of pink goo working as a battery for the machines. The matrix was something made to dispose the human race, where in eXistenZ the false reality is a game, created by people. I feel that the matrix is only more meaningful because of its “liberatory” aspect, the idea of freeing the world, not just physically from the machines, but mentally from themselves.
After viewing both films and reading Cynthia Freelands essay, to me the movies explore similar ideas but in a different way completely. To me the matrix is a more communal. The falseness of reality is widespread and almost impossible to liberate from. Where in eXistenZ the falseness is more personal, even though you are plugged in with others the experience is far more personal. The matrix being a external conflict of reality, where your body is physically somewhere else you are helpless to release yourself without help of others, though in eXistenZ your body is also somewhere else, at one point your conscience put yourself in that game, then from there who knows, which makes it an internal conflict. Where in the matrix you remain unaware from birth, once in the game you can never be sure when you’re back in the real world.

eXistenZ - Matrix Meaningful questions

Both movies “ The Matrix “, and “ eXistenZ ” are films that question our sense of reality. Both made roughly around the same time, yet one far more popular then the other, I think that both directors did a fantastic job, in their attempt to translate such complicated themes and concepts. One thing these films both have in common, “what it means to be seduced or deceived by artificial versions of reality.” –Cynthia Freeland (PATM) Pg. 213 In retrospect the idea of being seduced or deceived is seen in a negative light, they both explore the “bad” and “good” of an artificial reality. In “The Matrix” it can be said that the differences between both the real and fake world or obvious, once you’ve been released, but those still in the matrix, which have never been unplugged will never know the difference/truth. In “eXistenZ” you can never really tell what’s real, and what’s fake, sort of keeping the viewers and the characters in limbo. By the end of “The Matrix” the characters and the viewers both know the difference between reality, and the matrix. Where at the end of “ eXistenZ” the last line is “ are we still in the game? “
The question is which movie questions the nature of reality in a more meaningful way. Its not a question of which movie was better, or which had better special effects and explosions, because if that were the case the matrix would win hands down. But from a philosophical standpoint both movies can almost bee seen as identical. Personally if I had to choose which presented a more meaningful question I would have to choose the matrix
The matrix presented the false hood of humans being enslaved and obvious. To referrer to “ Allegory of the cave” the fact that humans are blissfully unaware, and when faced with the truth, cannot cope. Where eXistenZ explores the opposite idea of that, where people are the ones putting themselves in this false reality. The reason think the matrix question is more meaningful is because if you think about how far the human race has come, we are still so ignorant. The matrix for me questions reality as a whole. How from waking up to going to work, living and dying is all for nothing, as your real body lies in a tube of pink goo working as a battery for the machines. The matrix was something made to dispose the human race, where in eXistenZ the false reality is a game, created by people. I feel that the matrix is only more meaningful because of its “liberatory” aspect, the idea of freeing the world, not just physically from the machines, but mentally from themselves.
After viewing both films and reading Cynthia Freelands essay, to me the movies explore similar ideas but in a different way completely. To me the matrix is a more communal. The falseness of reality is widespread and almost impossible to liberate from. Where in eXistenZ the falseness is more personal, even though you are plugged in with others the experience is far more personal. The matrix being a external conflict of reality, where your body is physically somewhere else you are helpless to release yourself without help of others, though in eXistenZ your body is also somewhere else, at one point your conscience put yourself in that game, then from there who knows, which makes it an internal conflict. Where in the matrix you remain unaware from birth, once in the game you can never be sure when you’re back in the real world.

Todays To do list

Today i will be finalizing my Final idea. Its come down to 2 ideas. I am either going to do a music video and have a slide show, with some text and a presentation, Or my other idea is to possibly team up with another classmate and do a sort of NYC version of "Where the Hell is Matt". Try to give people a better sense of New York, In the format of a video, travel around city and try to capture some Landmarks, people and over all society, as a living entity.



End of class, have narrowed it down to doing a video where possibly we will be playing a game of chesss all over new york. becasue i dont see us dancing , lol

Inside the matrix "penetrating Keanu" ... Not really

What reasons does she give for this claim?
In Cynthia's essay she discusses the idea of “penetration” in the matrix. She gives multiple examples including ones that involve Neo, Trinity, and other characters. One example of penetration is the obvious matrix “plug”. That hole in the back of their heads and all over their bodies is how they connect to the matrix. She goes on to describe the types of penetration; there is good penetration, like that of being connected to the matrix, and bad penetration, like getting shot and the bug planted by agents that they had to remove through his navel.
What evidence does she supply?
Her evidence includes direct references to the film, and goes into great detail describing what happens. Like how they remove the Scorpion like bug from Neo, and how at the end of the film he gets shot multiple times, survives and quite literally dives “penetrates” Mr. Smith.
Do you agree with her or not?
I do agree I feel that the idea of Penetration in the matrix is a valid concept which shed light onto some of the more difficult ideas used in the film.
Why or why not?
If you have seen the movie and read the essay it’s hard to see the correlations. It’s not as if she is discussing a topic that is completely thought up, or suggestive. Everything she talks about actually happens in the film. And she does a great job relating and explaining the ideas in her head.

Game idea for library

My educational game concept wasn't all that original but i think it's a good way of discovering and learning more about the library.
A monopoly - Hear me out ! Instead of the sides of the boards being companies and railroads, i think it would be smart to substitute those with with sections of the library. One side of the board would be performing arts, film/ dance/ music. . . And instead of putting houses and hotels, you place examples of artists. So Where board walk would be there would be the Jazz exhibit, and once you collect all its sources you can begin to add musicians . . . And where film would be you can add names of directors, producers /writers etc. . . the game would look very similar to the original layout with some moderation, like pictures and colors. and instead of the car, boot, and tack, you can have a saxophone, a ballet dancers, a Film camera. Most aspects of my idea are interchangeable with the actual game but with a slight educational spin on it involing all the information in the library.

Plans for final

For today's blog entry, you should set research goals for the Media Final and post them. Then, at the nend of class, post what you accomplished and what you plan to do for the media final between today and next Tuesaday.


I'm having difficulty choosing a topic for my final, but my first idea was to make a short video/ documentary and ask people/interveiw them about sertain things in the media, ask them questing like what their favorite forms of media were, what they think is coming in the future. etc... have a list of questions. But im still not sure if thats going to be my final concept. There are many topics from me to choose from so at this point im going to be researching, and seeing what can come of that, perhapds after some research an idea mite arise.

New idea has arisen, project possibilty - discuss and research how media has changed, been chaning and will keep changing - death of the printing press/ books -
possible video/ comedy depicted new generations relationships with older forms of media.

Plans for the week, are to continue creating/expanding on idea's get a final idea, and begin planning - rounding up resources - continue internet research.

Matirx essay - revisted

Through My experiences here on this floating rock, I’ve come to the conclusion that in fact we are living in the matrix. Now I know what you’re thinking, that’s not possible, when indeed it is, just not probable. I’m not suggesting that everything and everyone is fake, and machines have taken over the world and the human race is now enslaved in pink goo pods being used as batteries! My theory is more of a conceptual matrix that humans have created. "The people on this planet are all fakes because the societies have made them this way. “Like parasites they infect the minds and spread from one person to the next. They have no point or purpose; they exist without any logical basis or foundation. The fakes are completely controlled by them, and they will never see beyond them. To not be controlled by them one must do more then just realize that they exist. One must resist any ideas that have no point, endlessly question, and never accept imperfection or compromise in any answer." - by Vanessa Cortez

In the essay written by Nixon in PATM, he brings up many interesting ideas, that if you were to comprehend in full would most definitely assist you on your quest for the truth. On page 29 (patm) –Nixon writes, “ if it is possible that a belief you have is false, then that belief is not one that you can say you really know.” This statement explores the concept of truth, without truth can there even be a false? And vise versa. So ask yourself, how do you know (right now) that reality is real? Nixon’s essay explains how we cant be living in the matrix, Once again (probably not) he gives such reason like consensual agreements, such subjects like science etc … Thins that people in society all accept as real, truth. Like the empire state building, oxygen, and the dog crap you stepped in last week!. It’s not that I don’t agree with Nixon’s claims, but it’s more like he is simply focusing on a small portion of a much larger picture.

I personally do believe we live in a matrix, no, not that one, but the human matrix. No machines are the masterminds, we are. We are all separate individuals, with our own experiences and thoughts. So what really is the difference? Philosophically speaking we live in a consensual illusion. Using the allegory of the cave as a reference, and Dr. Smith as an example. Growing up in Texas where he didn’t know their were other people out their who were not Christians. You don’t know what you don’t know. The next time you are outside – feeling the heat on your face from a star hundreds of thousands miles away, take a step back from the illusion and think about this; “its not possibility that matters its probability.” –pg 30 (patm) Now before you begin to suspect your parents of being aliens, and loose your noodle and end up in the basement of a Looney bin, breath. “ You think that’s air you’re breathing now.” – Morpheus (the matrix)

But in all seriousness a subject as vast and as complicated as this isn’t one easily grasped. Philosophy isn’t for everyone, which is sad because I personally wished every single person took the time out of their lives to question these things. The world would be undoubtly a better place, or one buried to its neck in philosophy books. One unsetteling factor above all this is the fact that Humans only recently reached their intellectual peak, where things like philosophy and mathmatics can really grow. IN any other period of time if you would be stoned or suspected of being a witch, or even stoned to death. Ut with exceptions to our great Greek philosophers, and early scientist who made the wolrd what it is today. We’ve come so far, intellectually that to predict or forsee our next great acheviment is our search for the truth is impossible. Wecab only be patient as the human evolutionary track takes it course. Be a Nixon ( not the president) be a Neo. Take take yourself our of the norm and try to experiences something greater, because that’s the only way we can progress.

mid term draft

State whether you agree or disagree that watching television is likely to make people more violent.

Imagine a time and place where things like crime, violence, and corruption did not exist. Imagine humanity free of control, free of personal interests and selfishness, a place where people took responsibility for themselves. But to go on with such a list would be too optimistic. We all know as people already living on this planet that the things mentioned above are mankind’s legacy. For generations now humanity has been in a steady decline, not just financially and politically as I’m sure you’ve noticed. But we’ve literally as a species have been de-evolving, regressing further back every year so it seems. I’m aware such statements may seem outrageous even ludicrous, but the evidence has been piling up for quite some time now and it’s time to face the facts!
There have been an endless number of studies documenting this phenomenon. In more recent years we have been able to calculate more accurately than ever. Humans are easily influenced creatures, may it be directly or indirectly we are like sponges. We absorb everything around us, the good and the bad. Once an evolutionary trait that got us out the trees and walking upright, now seems to be our greatest weakness. It can be a difficult subject to grasp but television and other forms of media are as much a part of us as our brains. (Almost like an external hard drive to a computer) The media has become an outlet for billons of people to connect and share, and is one of the greatest strides in human communication to date. But what is being communicated? What are we as the viewer being shown, and what kind of repercussions could we possibly suffer from? The questions persist …
Present day 2010, as a society we are on a hill, the path we walked to get to where we are is in full focus, our past is visible. But the question is have we learned from it? Personally as a member of society and a long term victim of the media I can say that no, we have not. It seems as time has progressed the media has grown not only in size; satellite radio/television, modern film, mass produced books and genres, commercial advertisements etc... But its overall reaches. People who have never had a television or internet are now plugged like the rest of us. The state of internet is stronger than ever.

Research, and report.

Today I had planned to work on my media mid-term predominately, but I realized just how close the paper for film was due so I decide to just finish it. I completed my film essay and it’s ready for PRINT! So now I have that out the way the real work on the midterm may begin …

Sunrise - paper

In this paper I will prove how F.W Murnau’s 1927 film “Sunrise, A tale of two humans” is a perfect example of the struggle between the modern and anti-modern values of the 1920’s. Originally a short story by Hermann Sudermann “Die Reise nache tilsit”, Sunrise was a major achievement in modern film making. Winning a wide range of awards at the first ever Oscars and deemed culturally historical by the United States library or congress, and was voted on being on the best films of all time. Murnau’s expressionistic approach was something very new to American, so when the film his streets it had quite an impact on the public and film makers alike. Coming out in 1927, the year the first ever “talkie’ was made Sunrise was a silent film.

The film depicts the life of one man, with a strong inner conflict. He is torn between two lives, one life with his wife, on a farm with a child. Yet at the same time he is having an affair with a city woman. The man’s life on the farm represents the anti-modern, traditional life style that most people at the time were used to, his wife fulfilling the role of the traditional wife as a mother, committed housewife etc, which is expressed in many different ways. One example of this is shown in the director’s use of animals. All the animals in the film are a symbol of consciousness, almost as if the animals themselves are people and influence the characters as such. There is a sequence when the man is taking his wife out on the boat, and a dog which is tied to a fence, observes the couple and is barking loudly as if he knew what was coming.


The dog even gets loose and jumps into the lake swimming up to the boat and clings to the woman. The man takes it upon himself to remove the dog in an odd emotionless fashion, only strengthening the theory of animal influence.

Throughout the film his wife is seen as the polar opposite of the city woman. The wife is depicted in a bright light, she has light features, hair, eyes, smile, and is seen in daylight constantly, and represents many traditional anti-modern values. Where the woman from the city represents modern values, she is independent, smokes, wears bearing clothes like skirts and small shirts, which at the time was new and was coming along with the new views the 20’s created, where women, went to the city to start a life of their own. But she directly represents the man’s desires for new exciting things. When the city woman tells the man to drown his wife and move to the city is becomes clear that that idea appeals to him, the attraction of city life and modernist values seem so appealing that he is willing to commit murder to break free from his boring life. One example of just how diluted the man was while he was under the city woman’s spell was how after collecting murder accessories, he sneaks back into his own home, worried and nervous, and wakes up the next day in a panic visualizing the bull sprouts he had collected the night before in his wife’s bed.

The two women in this film represent the shift in values during the 1920’s. The woman from the city embodies many aspects of femininity. She represents the woman as a sexual being. In one sequence you can get a strong sense of the modern dominating the anti-modern. When the city woman leaves her shack on her way to see the man, she has a woman from the

village polish her shoes. In comparison every scene the wife is in she is seen, cooking, caring for animals or her child. The man is quite literally torn between two completely different lifestyles. After a turn of events the leads the man and his wife to the city, which in its own respect is ironic, it can be said the idea of the anti-modern life moves into a new light that is not so appealing, and the idea of living in the city seems appealing not only to the character but the audience too. The couple experiences a fast paced lifestyle unknown to them which can be seen in the shot where the man and his wife are the cause of a major traffic jam. After the couple rekindles their love in the church, where the man finally realizes the wrong he has done, and breaks down in tears, begging for his wife to forgive him. As night came about the couple was at a fair, a frantic paced party, where the man cannot seem to stop himself from playing games. Shows parallels, how the man cannot control himself from cheating.

When the pig escapes and the chase scene begins, I personally saw that entire sequence as the man’s chase with his own happiness. But ultimately by the end the couple realizes that they belong in the village. After a storm nearly killing the two on their way home, it can be said the man is forever changed. The man completely forget about the city woman and he dismisses her and nearly strangles her to death, another ironic event, the man was first going to kill his wife and now the tides have changed. The movie truly is a roller coaster of emotions, the mood is changing constantly throughout which give the viewer an idea of just how hectic things must have been for this man. One strong overtone that is woven throughout the film is the concept of the anti-modern community. At the begging when the husband goes to meet the city woman


The villagers are seen gossiping about the two later on. When the wife is lost in the water, the entire community comes out the look for her. The anti-modern seems to be favored in this film by the title of the film itself, “Sunrise”, where the woman from the city represents the modern, who is seen only at night, emphasized by a full moon. In contrast to the wife, who is seen in daylight throughout. Day and night are generally associated with good and evil, which strengthens the argument of the anti-modern over the modern. The title, in a sense, refers to the anti-modern literally rising over the modern.

Mid term Progress

What did you say you were going to do?
I had planned to strengthen my claim, and try to narrow down what it is that I will be discussing and disputing in this paper. Look for supporting facts/evidence that I can use. Begin thinking about the structure of my paper and how I will organize it

What did you actually do?
I came up with a few different claims;
Television is not the reason humans have become more violent, humans are.
How people’s way of absorbing television and other media have changed, and have developed unwanted characteristics, Devolution?
Television, the new parents of a generation.
I also searched the web on various subjects, television and violence, media’s role in the overall growth of violence.

What do you need to do for the next class?
Come up with some more ideas to write about, possible interviews, new topics to research, find supporting evidence. Read classmates blogs to see if there is anything I can use or share with others. Begin writing opening paragraphs, organize arguments. Strengthen claim.

“Why I said what I said to Howard and Dionny."

“Why I said what i said to Howard and Dionny"

When i first began reading the articles i had no idea what they were writing about, but that's what made it interesting. Once i put the pieces together and figured out the assignment i was able to express some of my concerns. Having no personal connection or idea of the individual gave me a sense of freedom to respond both honestly and critically. For Howard, i felt the add he chose was a strong one, and executed his assignment well but could of defiantly took it further then just the basic descriptions and has potential. Use more literary devices, and methods of communicating your ideas better.
For Dionny, i felt the add you chose was slightly more difficult, but same can be said to you that i said to Howard. And to both of you, if you feel stuck take a step back and try to change your point of view, experiment more with your words and ideas and I'm sure you will be able to come up with some great descriptions.
I don't usually critique anyone's work , but i did learn how to analyze written work and look for certain things that stand out , both negative and positive.

Mid-term research !

* Thesis / Thesis Statement
A thesis is the Spine of a paper, its the guide to how the writer will be expressing their interpretation of the discussion matter.

* Research
Is the processes of obtaining information relevant to your topic.

* Argument
is a disagreement involving two different points of view, with intentions of persuading or convincing.

* Claim
to make a statement that is asserting and maintain as a fact.

* Reasons
statements presented in justifying or explanation of a belief or action. a basis of fact, or cause.

* Evidence
contributing factors that intend to prove or disprove a claim or statement, by indication facts, ground and belief.

My personal position of violence and television and its affect on the population is a strong one, its a complicated subject with already irreversible damage done. I intended to capture evidence that supports my claims. Looking everywhere from Google to Library sources to news paper articles. The evidence needed undoubtedly will need to be actual events with supporting documentation and relevant ideas and conflicts.





Modern Language Association (MLA):
"Evidence.Reasons.Claim.Argument.Research.Thesis" Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 08 Apr. 2010. .

Museum of Moving Image Questions !

The Museum of moving image was a great experience. Not only was it very cheap, but it’s a gold mine of film history, props, equipment, the list goes on. I definitely plan to go back, I had a great time and I’m sure my friends will too. I thought I knew a lot going in but I did manage to learn a bit from this trip. Some of the steps used in editing, film, sound, and effects. I even made a mini animated cartoon. There are many activities to keep your self-amused in-between exhibits. Ranging from camera tricks to original video games like Super Mario, Tekken, even PONG! I found the museum alone quite interesting and cool. Being a New Yorker I was surprised to see such an awesome exhibit right under my nose. They had Chewbacca’s head! But in particular I found many of the actives to be interesting, the animation computer, the green screen, dialogue replacement, are all things I feel everyone and filmmakers in particular should experience. I worked alone, it made it easier for me to make up questions and to pretty much get lost and not get yelled at. Overall I felt the trip was a great experience and I recommend the museum to anyone who has a dollar and some time to kill. I can’t wait to see how it comes out when they stop shuffling things about and finish construction; the MOMI truly is a gem.

1. How many job positions are their in a full-length film?

2. What prop did Marlon Brandon use in the “God Father” to give him his lisp?

3. What form of communication did Orson Welles use to reach the producers of his films?

4. Costumes used in 2001 – A Space Odyssey, what kind of monsters did they create?

5. What movie is playing under the picture of Eddie Murphy on the 2nd Floor?

6. What other famous mutants reside near Chewbacca?

7. Which famous directors picture is on the 2nd floor under “The Director”

8. Under the costume section of the 2nd floor, which actor wore the ruby studded suit?

9. Which famous green cartoon character resides in the costume area?

10. Which famous sci-fi film has its own shelf of original toys on the 2nd floor?

11. Which sci-fi television show has their own set of paper plates and napkins?

12. In the back of the 2nd floor, which “three” comedians re “selling the product”?

13. Which famous happy days character shares a shelf with Bart Simpson and E.T?

14. Which Tim Burton film is listed in the soundtrack jukebox on the 2nd floor?

15. What movie is the uniform from under the giant lit up “Dumont T.V” sign?

16. Out of the 14 original games on the 2nd floor name 4.

17. What kind of cigarettes is “mummy” James Dean smoking in Tuts Fever?

Questions For 3rd Floor

18. On the 3rd floor, which film poster is closest to the entrance?

19. In the Feral Fount exhibit, name all the things the water droplet turns into.

20. What types of effects are available on the video flip book?

21. In Charley Chaplin’s “Eating Soup” how many times does he get punched in the face?

22. How many cameras are on the 3rd floor? Which are the biggest? Which are the best?

23. Under the animation computer activity, how many different frogs can you use?

24. What sport is being played in the T.V editing room?

25. For the automated dialogue replacement activity, name some of the films you could edit.

26. For the music supervision activity, name some of the songs and movies listed, what songs would you have rather used?

27. For the green screen activity, how many effects can you stack at once?

28. What horror movie props are found on the 3rd floor? Name at least 2.

29. In the original gaming console area on the 3rd floor, name 3 of the games you are able to play.

30. What famous sci-fi film miniature resides near the Freddie Kruger Props?

31. What was your favorite part of the museum? Why?

32. If you could add a exhibit to the museum what would it be? What relevance would it share with the rest of the museum?

Class Reflections ... So far

Over the past two weeks in this English class I can actually say that I’ve learned quite a bit. From the utilization of web tools, to literally getting a better understanding of my reality. I’ve really liked the idea of starting blogs, it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do so that’s a big plus. The class community (cluster) has brought education back to a level that I feel is a great way to expand, not only to help each other out with work but it’s also a great way to socialize on an intellectual level. The subjects and work we’ve been doing are very interesting to me personally, from the Allegory of the cave to the Truman show to the Matrix. I really have enjoyed the way they all seem to go hand and hand; it has made the work enjoyable and stimulating. At this point I’m only wondering what the future of this class holds.

Red Pill ... For sure

The Matrix truly was a great stride in modern cinema. Released March of 1999, this movie set the standard for new films to come in the new millennium. Like most great films, The Matrix is a retelling of some of the best stories of all time; Including the Bible, Plato’s Allegory of the cave, just to name a few. The Matrix made the audience think more than ever before. Not just when the next explosion was, or next hot scene. The Matrix made the audience question their own reality; it directly spoke to us as individuals, and for many of us got the wheels turning. It questioned Reality vs. Illusion, what we perceive and believe to be real. If I was put in such a situation, where I knew there was something else out there. I would choose reality. No matter how terrible, I would choose the truth over anything. Especially if the entire human race had been reduced to the role of batteries, I would hop the hell out of little pink filled goo pod and begin my life, as it was meant to be. Not in some cyber reality where I spend the rest of my days as part of the mindless masses. After you see the matrix you can’t help but think, are we living in the matrix? Can what they said be reality? Even if it was how would we know? The questions come like a never ending train. I wish we had the answers but sadly I don’t think there is a grand scheme. The human races in a sense are exactly what Mr. Smith described, a virus, to be generous. But if there is one thing I am great full for after absorbing all the matrix had to offer, is the message. That we as individuals create not only our reality, but our lives, everything is in our hands. We are all mental prisoners, chained and bound. But we are our own keepers, all of have the keys to set ourselves free. It all comes down to whether or not you choose to continue to pursue a greater understanding (red Pill) or if you are content in your ignorance. (Blue pill)
We are all Neo, we are all Socrates. The tag line to the movie explains a lot to those new to such subjects; “Free Your Mind”, because in actuality there is no spoon. It’s all what we choose to accept as real. Still to this day, many people don’t understand the matrix, as a child I watched the movie in wonder, not fully grasping the concept/message it was presenting. After watching it recently, with a new head on my shoulders I was able to understand and fully grasp every question raised in the film and the philosophy behind it. The Matrix is personal, yet global, in the sense that we all watch the same movie, but it’s what you take from it and how you interpret it can be different from the person next to you.

How to make it in Lagcc ~ Semester Plan

English – with Mr. Smith
So far I can say that my English class has been quite eventful and look like it will be that way till June. I am under the impression that class projects will be in relation to that of my mass communications class and to my American film class. But when it comes to homework and class work, blog spot seems to be a gift from the gods. Being able to check up and see assignments and other classmates work has been very helpful and quite possibly essential to success this semester. My plan for success in this class is to work on my writing skills as much as possible inside and outside the class, try to expand my explanation/writing.

American Film – Joyce
The Syllabi I have received for my film class has a breakdown of each time the class meets, giving specific details on class, assignments and projects.
Written assignments on classes 5, 11
Tests on classes 7, 13, 21
And the final oral presentation on the 22 class
Lectures and screenings are distributed throughout the course. My plan is complete every assignment as soon as I can, stay active in class and absorb as much as I can.

Mass media / communications – Lou
Being the only teacher to use the blackboard, it can be said that completing homework will be easier than expected, direct links to classmates work and teachers input. I plan to expand on my verbal communication skills, immerse myself deep into the media, and to over all be a sponge and gain as much knowledge as possible of the next few weeks.

At this point in my academic career, due dates and deadlines don’t intimidate me, I’m not worried about that. Nor am I worried about my attendance, my plan for success it to learn as much as I can from the professors I have, complete the work in a fashion where I don’t look at it as work, or something I don’t want to do. To me it’s all about how you view your work and your attitude, anyone can complain and not do the work, but it takes more to not only complete your work correctly and properly but to have fun doing it and at the end of the day be able to say “ I learned something”.

This week on reality T.V, Starring YOU!!!!

The Truman syndrome, believe it or not it is an actual condition. A human construct developed in the mind, fueled by television, the media and the never ending train of thought that is our psyche. The syndrome itself being a direct reference to the movie is a psychological delusion where the individual is convinced that they are living in an artificial world where all their movements are being documented and watched by either a live audience, or by the government. This day in age television has become a part of our everyday lives; a hundred years ago I doubt any psychological disorder like this even existed. Society has changed quite a bit over time; egocentric individuals are born every day, that and in combination with our mind melting media, and never ending stream of reality television and propaganda I can see how such a disorder came about.
The site I used to research this was A. Google which led me to the site wise geek. After watching the Truman show, and then hearing about Truman syndrome it wasn’t hard to imagine what it was. I believe the site I used was trust worthy because the information given made sense and coincided with all preconceived notions I had.

Blog 3 _Truman show thoughts

Life is filled with experiences and encounters that can alter the way we process the world every day. Everyone’s experiences are their own; never will two different people absorb the same experience the same way. The Truman show is a film that explores the boundaries of perception, and how easily people will accept the reality of the world they are presented. At an early age I began to question a lot of things, not speaking until I was 3 and a half years old it can be said my parents were worried. Growing up seemed like ages ago, when I think back on my child hood it seems almost like a blur, up until a certain point in my life where the way I viewed the world drastically changed. For me things didn’t change all at once, it was a series of events which led to my new way of thinking.
March of 2007, was my first out of country travel experience. I went to a place called Tulum in Mexico, south on the Yucatan peninsula. A place with not to many of the same privileges I had a home in New York was definitely an eye opening experience. Traveling with my mother, brother, and step father, we didn’t check into a fancy hotel, we quite literally spent 3 weeks in a bungalow 10- 15 ft, less than 50 yards from the beach. The town that we were staying in wasn’t one to popular with tourist; it seemed to be a remote spot known by a few keen travelers. We spent our days going back and forth to town, and exploring the surrounding areas. The part of Mexico we were in was known for their cenotes, beautiful lime stone caverns underground and above, filled with cool fresh water and fish and creatures I was quite aware of at the time. We saw a few of these caves in our stay; one cave in particular played a vital role in my own life changing experience. The cavern I was in was half underground and half outside, as I swam about I noticed while I was underwater light shining through the water, but when I lifted my head all I saw was a rock wall. So I went under and swam about 8 or 10 yards and rose up through the light, it was a cut of section of the cave only accessible by swimming underwater. As I sat there alone I had an epiphany concerning my reality, and just how much I didn’t know, and how much more was still out there waiting to be discovered.
The caves were just one part of my perception changing trip to the Yucatan. The icing on the cake, or more so major turning point happened much later in my trip. The trip itself I can write about for days, but I digress. On one of my last night’s I went for a walk down the beach, being almost 2 o’clock in the morning I didn’t have much company. There was no moon out that night, it was the darkest I had ever seen the world, the only light I had was from distant stars as it broke in the waves. Being an astronomy fanatic for as far back as I can remember, seeing the night sky with no ambient light, no moon to clout my vision, I was able to see the sky in a way I’ve never experienced before, I was able to see stars, clusters, cosmic dust, all with just my own eyes. I remember pulling up a chair and sitting on the beach, telling myself to take a mental picture and not to forget this. Still to this day I don’t know how long I sat there looking up. I woke up to crashing waves the same chair I had passed out on. It wasn’t until I was sitting on the plane back to the states that I started to put the pieces together, confined to my chair and my Ipod, All I remember was smiling as I reminisced about my time in Mexico, and I felt lucky being able to come back home with all my new experiences.

Staring at the wall ... still

The Allegory of the Cave, by far one of Socrates more interesting works, depicts a story of people bound in a cave from birth, forced to face a blank wall and the only glimpse of reality, or our version of reality was seen from the shadows cast from the fire behind them. Visions of animals and other objects never actually seen in the physical, a life experienced through a keyhole or in Socrates case through shadows. Socrates attempt to explain just how fragile the human mind truly is and how easily influenced the brains perceptions can be and what some people perceive as reality would in fact be an illusion. He then goes on about a man (who has spent his entire life since childhood bound in a dark cave) would perceive reality. To be dragged out of the world known your whole life and to be quite literally tossed into reality. Some may not want this because for them ignorance is bliss, or possibly they are terrified at the idea of their reality being destroyed. Socrates had many theories on reality, but in “the Cave” it can be said that he is trying to express how reality is a human construct created through experiences, and from those experiences perceptions are created and applied.

I am not a cyborg ...

The idea of cyborgs/robots has been around for a long time. Movies created to depict a future where planet earth is over run or dependant on such inventions that will sooner or later render humans useless. One idea that must be understood is the difference between a “robot” and a “cyborg”. The robot was a man made invention/idea that was made to make human life easier, a tool. Where the cyborg is an artificial human, sometimes given human features, or in “blade runner” even given artificial memories to make to cyborg seem even more human. Ironically this day in age humans have become even more technologically dependant than ever, more and more of the robots/cyborgs are making their way into main stream society. At the super market, at the bank, at our work place. The change seems inevitable. Personally I am on the computer all the day, be it me doing homework, talking to friends, watching videos, listening to music. Playing games, It seems the more needs humans come up with the more accommodating computers have become. The only reason I do not consider myself a cyborg is because I know where I come from and how I got here, or at least I think I do. Take away my flesh vital organs and maybe a few emotions, I just might be.