Tuesday, May 25, 2010

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.

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