Atonement

My thoughts in general: As I was reviewing the media with which I have interacted in the last week, I realize that many (probably most) of the media I experience are films. Thus, I fear that most of my media blogs will be about films that I watch, but I hope that this will change and that I will begin to recognize the other media that surrounds me and include it in my blogging. However, that being an optimistic future and this being the film-dominated present, I will first write about the film Atonement. This is a new film starring Keira Knightley and directed by Joe Wright, who directed Pride and Prejudice, also starring Keira Knightley. Well, Atonement has been nominated for a bunch of awards and won 2 Golden Globes, including Best Motion Picture - Drama. Films that I really want to see are often few and far-between. However, Atonement is one of these few, and I was excited to see it. After watching it, I understand why awards academies like it so much, but it was somewhat disappointing for me. Keira Knightley's acting reminded me of pretty much every other performance she has given, and acting-wise, the film didn't seem much different from Wright's Pride and Prejudice. There were good performances, including one by the seasoned Vanessa Redgrave, but her short part fit her so well, it was almost too expected . . . but something that the Academy likes. The idea of atonement was approached in an interesting way that really did cause me to reflect, though. Ultimately, it was not as fulfilling as I would have hoped, but it was not a waste of time.

My thoughts on application: Since Atonement is rated R, it couldn't couldn't really be applied in a high school setting, and it would be a limited use even at BYU. However, here is what I think is applicable. It has some interesting portrayals of WWII, which could be used to discuss the War--it could be analyzed for accuracy, it could be compared to other filmic depictions of WWII, etc. Also, since it based on Ian McEwan's novel, it could be used as a study of novel-to-film adaptation. Overall, the theme of atoning for one's misdeeds could used as a discussion point with any group (that could appropriately watch the film). This discussion lends itself to contemplating the future effects of our present actions. Forethought and prudence seem to be lacking at times in our instant-gratification, in-your-face, over-the-top society (I'm thinking Jackass and other ridiculous media).