Practicing the Arts of Noticing

Introduction to Pashkevich's Article

• The article examines the interaction between cinema and concepts from the Anthropocene.

• Focuses on how film can challenge and destabilize foundational dichotomies.

• Aims to generate new ways of perceiving films based on theoretical frameworks discussed in the article.

Critical Concerns of the Article

• Cinema's Formal Capacity

  • Involves the elements of film form generating ideas.

  • Explores visual storytelling and the impact of images/sounds on idea formation.

  • Paskovich seeks to destabilize dichotomies of the Anthropocene through film techniques.

• Affective and Discursive Impact

  • Film representation affects both intellectually (discursive) and emotionally (affective).

  • The representation invites viewers to think and feel differently about human-nature relationships.

Key Concepts of the Anthropocene

• Definition of the Anthropocene

  • A term representing human impact on the planet's geology and ecosystems.

  • Marks the period where human activities have become the dominant influence on climate and the environment.

  • Controversial due to claims that it centers human experience at the expense of nonhuman agency.

• Dichotomies of the Anthropocene

  • Foundation of existing divisions that lead to environmental degradation.

  • Examples include human/nature, human/animal, subject/object, mind/body.

  • These divisions perpetuate destructiveness and segregation from nature.

Role of Cinema in Disrupting Dichotomies

• Cinema has the potential to reveal and question these binaries.

• By destabilizing the notion of separation, films can invite audiences to engage with the nonhuman.

• Effective Film Techniques

  • Affective responses can disrupt preconceived notions of normalcy.

  • Visual and auditory elements create immersive experiences that challenge human superiority over nature.

Case Studies: Film Examples

• Princess Mononoke (Clip Analysis)

  • Examines the emotional and physical responses generated by the film’s depiction of destruction in nature.

  • The grotesque representations challenge viewers to confront human intervention in the environment.

  • Miyazaki's work exemplifies a transformative representation of nature and humanity's relationship.

• Wild (Cheryl's Journey)

  • Demonstrates a shift in viewing nature not as an adversary but as interconnected with human experience.

  • Instances where the protagonist's agency diminishes as she reconnects with nature, highlighting vulnerability.

  • Visual focus blurs the lines between human and environment, suggesting a potential for unity.

Hegemonic Imaginaries and Their Implications

• Hegemony Explanation

  • Refers to societal norms that reinforce status quo power dynamics.

  • Constructs enable destructive practices against the environment and inhibit change.

• Disrupting Hegemonic Imaginaries

  • Cinema can address and overturn these normalized ideas of human dominance.

  • The narrative structures often reinforce anthropocentric thinking.

Call for Change in Viewing Practices

• Novel Ways of Engagement

  • Emphasizes a need for alternative approaches that dissolve human/nonhuman binaries.

  • Encourages imaginative and analytical engagement with films and the environment.

• Witnessing Transformation

  • Importance of understanding cinema as a medium that can evoke empathy and awareness about ecological issues.

  • The thoughtful viewing can empower and promote change in perception towards nonhuman entities.

Conclusion

• Pashkevich's article serves as a framework for examining films through the lens of Anthropocene theory.

• Highlights the importance of careful observation and emotional engagement in cinematic experiences.

• Encourages the audience to appreciate how film form impacts their understanding and relationship with nature.