Religious Imagery In The Godfather

Religious Imagery In The Godfather Describe the religious imagery Coppola uses during the Baptism scene at the end of the Godfather. How is this ceremony used to heighten the tension of the scene? What statement (if any) is he making by cross-cutting between the murders and the ceremony? The Baptism scene is one of the most exceptional scenes in the Godfather movie because Coppola-the director- combined visuals, language, music, and editing in a very powerful way. To summarize the scene, Michael, the Godfathers son, sets up himself as the new Godfather and settles the family issues by ordering him men to murder his enemies. In this scene, Coppola uses montage editing to cut between those two scenes back and forth, as if he is trying to demonstrate a point about Michael. Coppola wanted to present Michaels complex character as an evil and good man at the same time. Also, Coppola used close ups during the scene to emphasize it more. In the Catholic Church, the priest was using Latin in the baptism; he shifted to English when he asked Michael questions about faith. This shifting between Latin and English was used to underline Michaels contrast between what he is saying and the murderous actions that he orders. The scenes in a film can be edited by either continuous action or parallel action. As for editing the baptism scene, a parallel action was used wisely to present Michaels personality and life. Cutting back and forth between scenes can be helpful to present events that happen at the same time. The parallel action highlighted the dishonesty and the darkness of Michaels soul and personality. Add to that, it presented the double life that he will live as the head of the family. Coppola used the image of the innocent baby, who is being washed for purity and sinfulness, to contrast it with Michaels life that is filled with sins and darkness. A rising action was starting; Michaels men were preparing for the murders and the priest was preparing the baby. Then the scene reached the peak when the priest asked Michael if he renounces Satan. The scene cut to the first murder of mafia, then cut back to Michael saying I do. The shifting between Michaels men preparing for a Mafia war and the religious ceremony getting started highlights the tension, the lies, the darkness, and the contrast of this ceremony. At the time where a baptism should be a religious ceremony to clean the soul from sins, the scene presented the opposite of that. We can see the hate and the shadow thats around Michaels life, as if this ceremony was a lie. Coppola was able to clearly present the complexity of Michaels soul and how each murder stresses out a new meaning. Combining the two events in one scene emphasizes Michaels title as the Godfather. We can clearly notice how Coppola used the four elements of filmmaking (Mise en scene, sound, cinematography, and editing) in this one scene to create the perfect atmosphere. Coppolas choice of using a religious music during the ceremony didnt change during the murders. However, he manipulated the level of sound by increasing it during the killings and decreasing it during baptizing the baby. As a result, the level of tension, fear and pressure increased, and the audience was able to see the real Michael. Michaels true personality was being revealed as the family man who deals with crime and murders. Using different lighting techniques during the ceremony was a clever move by Coppola. He focused the sun light only on the altar where the priest was baptizing the baby. However, he darkened most of the altar and especially the statute of Jesus Christ that was directed toward Michael. Michael being in the light and Jesus in the dark can imply or suggest the differences between them. People may see the use of lighting as a symbolic method to reveal Michaels duplicity. Especially when he rejected Satan in words, while, his men were murdering his enemies. To conclude, Coppola tried hard to introduce Michaels character and personality through the baptism scene. His way of using the simplest techniques to reach the point where people can really analyze the character, was powerful. Not all directors can demonstrate the different feelings that audiences felt throughout the scene. If this one religious scene created this amazing feeling of fear, dishonesty, and faith, what about the entire film? The Baptism ceremony was established to compare between Michaels life and what he pretend to be. Add to that, the cross-cutting between the murders and the ceremony helped showing the evil side of Michael. Coppola had the choice to separate the murders from the religious ceremony, but he chose to combine them to create this anxiety and nervousness feeling. Combining them was a success because the audience was able to live the scene and to understand each character aside. Some historians argue that films reflect the political and social mores of society at the time of its creation- is this an accurate statement? Is this subject matter of the movies we have watched driven by society or does society drive the entertainment industry to create films within a specific moral, social, or political context? Discuss. Coppola, one of the American directors who created powerful films with strong personal appeals, may share some of the cultural, social, and political mores that most American have. For example, after watching the Godfather, we cant help but say that it expresses some social or cultural mores that directors usually have with their audience. Godfather clearly reflects the American society in many ways: the mafia wars, the killings, and the family relationships. According to Quart and Auster (2002), the movie industry tries hard to perfectly utilize some social values to attract audience, who is most likely accepting those values and living on them. All films can be considered political as the Batman movie (1989) that point out several views about the American reality. However, we cant say that all cultural and political views in films can relate to audiences social and political beliefs; it is difficult to relate to them all the time. Most of the American films try not to eliminate the social patterns. Producers usually try to stylize the cultural or social world to let people live in this bubble of thrill or to let them escape the emotional reality. Films are usually built around the audiences dreams, the individuals heroism, or the individuals personality. In fact, this is what most Hollywoods movies are based on. We can see that from Home of the Brave to Platoon films, where the political events were included to define some characters fate or feeling. For instance, the producers in Platoon film included the Vietnam War to define and show the soldiers journey that he goes through. (Quart and Auster, 2002) When the U.S has entered World WarII, the film industry tried to support the war effort by producing some documentaries and short movies about the war. Also, the OWI (the office of War Information) joined the film industry to spread notion among people about supporting the war, and to maintain awareness about it. For example, during the war, Basil Rathbone has played as the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes who defeated Nazis inhumanly acts. The film industry and the OWI were concerned about the rising tension in the society because of the war. Therefore, they wanted to create a national unity between people, and to present the U.S. as a unified country. Hollywood placed an effort during the war by producing movies. For instance, Hollywood realized that women had been left behind because their men joined the army; therefore, Hollywood produced series of films about how these men are scarifying themselves and their families, and how they are contributing their souls for war. This type of drama pleased and helped many people during the war especially women, who were presented as the supportive spouse. Hollywoods box offic e hit a new level because of people admiring the drama of these womens lives and their support for their brave men. (Grainge, Jancovich, and Monteith, 2007) After stating all these facts, I would have to say yes films reflect the political mores of society but not necessary directly; it could touch the audience in many simple ways. Films can be liberal, conservative, or confused when it comes to political events, and analysts are still trying to figure out the connection between them and the society. However, films are a reflection of the society because most movies now a day present part of our daily lives. Films present partly what a family, a teenager, a soldier, a child, and a woman go through every day. For instance, the movie New York talked about how the 9/11 has changed the life of three students who were studying at New York State University. This movie reflected many aspects of society, politics, war and darkness. Add to that, people are able to see the corruption and the dishonesty of the business world by watching the Corporate movie. It presented how women used their femininity to get jobs, how people killed others for silly excuses, and how teenagers took drugs and got pregnant. These entire movies clearly reflect the society as a whole, as if they are the mirror of societys culture and politics. Of course, there are other types of movies like fiction or animation movies that are produced to create a new world for some audience. To conclude, I believe that movies are driven by society and society is driven by them too. In fact, Movies are produced for people, and because people need them to escape their everyday routine. As a result, people get affected by many stories, actors, and styles presented in the movie. People, especially females, tend to follow the trends and fashion of movie stars, and they try to be them in every way possible. The images of these movie stars affect society as a whole. Lets take Hanna Montana films and series as an example for how teenager girls were copying her style, her clothes, and her life. We cant deny that society is driven by films, and that movies are driven by society because each one of them is connected with the other. They both complete each other. Society, especially since the last decade, is getting affected by movie stories; everyone wants to re-live them. Films in general are created as tools for people to perfectly reflect their economy, culture, and politics. Fi lms basically present societys values and beliefs at a certain time and place; each film reflects a certain era and a certain issue. Filmmakers always try to connect with audience through presenting something that may touch their lives or experiences. Finally, Films are now basically part of our lives, routine, and activities.

Essay on Flashbacks, Thrid Person Narration, and Harsh Language in Anot

Use of Flashbacks, Thrid Person Narration, and Harsh Language in Another Country James Baldwin's novel, Another Country , is enhanced by Baldwin's unique narrative style. The majority of the exposition of Another Country is presented through flashbacks. Baldwin uses the third person omniscient point of view to narrate his characters' personal thoughts and develop the characters. Lastly, Baldwin intensifies the rage and anger through his uncommonly harsh diction. Quite often Baldwin oversteps the traditional bonds of appropriate language. Although his diction is not appealing, it is both strong and effective. Such words evoke emotions in all readers. "You took the best, why not take the rest?" is the opening statement of Another Country. Readers begin the novel with the description of a man who has sunk to a low position in life. This man has fallen from his position as a prominent jazz musician to the lowest of street bums. His hair is uncombed; his body is unclean. He has descended from a very public position to a place where he hides from family, friends and police. And finally, in desperation, this man sells his body to another man for food and drink. All this action takes place in two pages. It is at the bottom of the second page that Baldwin give... ...the novel. Through harsh language Baldwin intensifies the anger. One such example is this passage: "I'll be back," he (Vivaldo) said. "No, you won't," said Rufus. "I'll kill you if you come back" (58). This passage expresses great rage when it is placed in context. Rufus is talking to his one true friend. His words are abrasive and at times abusive. Baldwin's diction represents the anger of his characters and his time. Another Country is written in an intense narrative style. James Baldwin utilizes the techniques of flashback narration, omniscient point of view and harsh language to increase the power of his novel.

In advance

We planned the whole trip 1 month In advance, because we were going to stay only 1 week and we wanted to take the best out of our family vacation trip, I as Impatient to be there with my family, see my old friends, and we heard that the city had Improved a lot In Infrastructures such as new buildings, parks, elegant restaurants, new streets signs, and playground areas all around the city I couldn't wait to see all that.We took off early in the morning and I was feeling excited already. On the way, we would kill off time by playing the word game on the train. It is a usual routine for a long train ride. Hours later, we arrived to our hotel. They would not let me know which hotel we are staying to tease on my curiosity and excitement for this rip. I was happy and excited to finally find out that we are going to spend the night at Pineal Resort Nah Train.We started to plan the trip and we decided to visit a few tourist places of Nah Train beach. First we planned to go to the island, whi ch Is one most famous called Bird island, which Is known for the bird nest In danger of extinction found In that Island. My mom wanted to go to Hon. Mum Island to see the black rocks Like people In there Introduced, so we decided to go there as well. On the way we went, we tried lots of food in there such as Ban can chaw ca, Men chug

RH Bill Essay

Introduction Poverty and overpopulation are two of the biggest national concern the Philippines have right now. Many solutions have been made to alleviate these problems but none of them seem to work. One of which is The Reproductive Health Bill of the Philippines, or RH Bill. This bill allows Filipinos access to contraceptives and an opportunity to be enlightened on the topic of family planning. The bill was first introduced in 1998 but somewhat died in the years after. Not until the year 2011 that the Congress decided to once again open its door for discussion on the RH bill. The basic condition of this bill is to introduce Filipinos and distribute to them family planning devices. It also aims for health care centers all over the country to circulate information on how to properly use them. Companies and schools are also encouraged to do the same with their employees and students. Through this, the bill intends to alleviate the problem of overpopulation in the Philippines. The bill, like any other thing in the world, is surrounded by controversies. It is actually a really good bill but a lot of people are opposing it. The number one group who opposes it is the Catholic Church. Though not entirely stated in the bill, the Church implies that the bill entails abortion, something that is greatly against the teaching and morals of the Church.

Abortion and Adoption Are Options

Abortion and Adoption Are Options Free Online Research Papers Abortion and adoption are two very different things but they are both an option a women can choose from when facing an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy. A woman has a right to choose what her future will be and having a child is a choice. Choosing to have an abortion or to give a child up for adoption are both decisions that a women must live with for the rest of her life. Abortion is frowned upon, it is thought of as a negative thing, where as adoption is an option that is supported but they are both a choice to give up a child. Abortion is seen as the easy way out, an irresponsible choice it is a different choice from adoption but that does not make it easier. An unwanted or unplanned pregnancy can change a women’s life but there are ways to deal with it and then move on afterwards. When a woman becomes pregnant she is faced with a life altering decision. She should be properly counseled and know all of her options. After a woman is educated on her situation she then must decide to have a child, have an abortion, or adoption. It is the doctor’s job to educate a woman about her current condition and her options. All people doctors included have the right to there own opinions but when counseling a patient a doctor should not influence a patient in anyway based on there own personal beliefs. When an unwanted pregnancy happens it is the woman that lives with it for the rest of her life. When a woman gives a child up for adoption there is counseling that is provided before and after, but when a woman has an abortion there is brief counseling before but none after the abortion. Abortion and adoption are both the act of giving up a child but they carry very different stigmas. Whatever a women chooses she should be provided with the appropriate before and after care. Abortion has a negative stigma, whereas adoption is a more socially acceptable option. They are seen as vastly different but should be thought of in the same way more often. They are choices â€Å"that a women-and it does come down to this should have control over her own body, even if she showed a reckless lack of control. Bad choices don’t disqualify future ones.† (Neilson 11). The choice that a woman makes is about the future and the life she wants for herself as well as her children present and future. Abortion and adoption are both an option a women can choose from when facing an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy. It is a women’s right to choose what her future will be and if children will be a part of her future. The decisions that we make today will affect our future. These effects may be unseen but that’s does not mean they are not there. Abortion and adoption both have pros and cons and that should not be ignored. Unwanted or unplanned pregnancies occurs everyday and women should not be judged on how she chooses to deal with her pregnancy because it is her body, her future, and her life. Research Papers on Abortion and Adoption Are OptionsPersonal Experience with Teen PregnancyInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesMoral and Ethical Issues in Hiring New EmployeesThe Fifth HorsemanRelationship between Media Coverage and Social andHip-Hop is ArtCapital PunishmentEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenOpen Architechture a white paperArguments for Physician-Assisted Suicide (PAS)

State Correction System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

State Correction System - Essay Example A community-based corrections system aims to protect the public through effective control of the offender while he is serving his sentence effected through an accurate evaluation of the risks involved in allowing such offender to participate in community activities as well as ensuring effective monitoring and control by officers tasked to supervise the offender while he is serving his sentence. The goal of rehabilitation is made effective through ‘programming’ the offender, which is the process of helping him to reduce his criminal behavior. This can only be done, however, if such offender truly wants to change and accepts help from others. On the other hand, restorative justice, another goal of community based corrections system, is achieved by making the offender perform community service and participate in educational programs where he is made to see the perspectives of victims. Finally, shaming, which is akin to the scarlet-letter punishment employed by the Puritan s ociety, is done by making the offender accept and apologize for his acts publicly. The objective is evidently to deter the offender from committing a similar act in the future (Alarid & del Carmen pp. ...ISP is conducted on offenders who are considered high risk. Intensive surveillance of the offender’s activities coupled with the use of such monitoring systems as Home Electronic Monitoring, telephone, curfews, and home and employment checks are the standard ISP mechanisms used by the Virginia DOC. High risk offenders include sex predators, hate group offenders and those who have graduated from community corrections. HEM, which is a separate program, employs either a tamper-resistant electronic transmitter strapped to the ankle of the offender or a field monitoring device. A $30 fee is assessed from offenders who are made to use a HEM. CRPs make use of transitional residential centers to temporarily house offenders under supervision where they undergo supervised housing, rand om urinalysis, testing, life skills and counseling. Offenders pay for their board and lodging. Diversion centers emphasize work and offenders are given jobs in public works and in prison complexes. They also receive counseling and related programs. Detention centers is a program that takes about 5 to 7 months consisting of military drills and discipline, strict hygiene, and where detainees are made to undergo physical labor. A DSAT consists of substance abuse screening, assessment, testing and treatment. Meanwhile, Virginia’s Sex Offender Supervision program requires certain offenders to register in a registry created for that purpose. The program also includes intense supervision, treatment and subjecting offenders to polygraph tests (Virginia.gov 2011).

Higher education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Higher education - Essay Example While university attendance rates increased generally for women, there was significant variance among different segments of the population because of factors such as age, race and ethnicity. This is because especially in this age of globalization we all have multiple identities such as age, race, ethnicity, religion, full or part time student, employment status, recent immigrant or native, etc. Intersectional theory shows that ones’ various identities intersect with each other influencing how we think and act, sometimes in opposite directions. For example, a Muslim woman from a conservative family may want to attend college, but is discouraged from doing so by her strict upbringing stipulating that education is unnecessary for women. Thus while the general trend is for increased female university attendance, the actual increase varies among different population segments because of the intersection of influences prevailing in specific populations which can either encourage or d ampen the trend. Table 5-8 This table in the provided reading analyses the proportion of undergraduate degrees earned in 2004 in the US by gender, race, ethnicity and age. For example, it tells us that 61% of all graduates were â€Å"traditional†, that is full time students under 24 while the remaining 39% were over 25, presumably either part time students possibly employed or full time who may have interrupted their work career in order to upgrade their skills. In the under 24 age group 34% within the 61% were women, and in the older group 24% within the 30% were women, or more than half in each case. However, while the proportion of women exceeded men for all racial/ethnic categories, the margin of difference varied considerably. For example, African Americans of both sexes were 50% of their graduating population for both the under 24 and over 25 age groups. However, for the under 24s 30% within the 50% were women 34% within the over 24 50% were also women, that is in both cases especially in the older group over half of the African American graduates were women. In contrast, for the Asian Americans under 24 33% within the 65% were women, although they constituted 21% within the remaining over 25 proportion. It is also noticeable that for most racial/ethnic groups women are a higher proportion of graduates for the over 25 age group than they are for the younger graduates, although in each case they exceed the male rate. Although the table tells us that there are differences among racial/ethnic groups in the degree to which the proportion of female graduates exceed that of males and the higher proportion is generally even more pronounced for the over 25 age group, it dos not tell us why. Unfortunately, in the social sciences unlike in the physical sciences, one cannot easily manipulate the quantity and quality of variables in a lab experiment to determine the exact effect of each variation. Instead, one must examine different population segments and di fferent hypothesis about what economic and/or social factors are likely driving their behavior, for example, the higher proportion of African American women pursuing higher education compared to females of other races/identities. Is this because they are generally of a lower socio-economic