Moral Of The Movie

I was casually scrolling through my WhatsApp status list and I saw a post with a thought-provoking question. The question was, "does the media shape society or does society shape the media?" I thought about it before responding and realized that I need to do some research. Regardless, my response was “both, but I think the media mostly shapes society.” The person said they thought the media reflects society but since media owners see the power the media has, they start using it to shape society. Again, with limited informed knowledge, I agreed with him.

You should share your thoughts below in the comments, it is an interesting issue that deserves a discussion. Nonetheless, and even without much research, we can all agree that the media is a powerful tool; every aspect of it. But the saddest part is, many of us are ignorant to the fact that the media socialises us into doing, being, and saying things; even things that don't align with our values.

Perhaps if we analysed the content we consume, we'd be more aware and that in turn will change how we relate to people and things, how we relate to ourselves, and maybe more thought would go into what we share too as educators and creators. Oh yes, we are all a part of the media experience, whether professionally or otherwise.

I am a journalist, content creator, writer, and a few months ago I considered myself a singer. This means I am always sharing messages with people. I need to be careful, especially as a journalist, and you need to be too; both with what you consume and produce.

But I'm here to help, just a little; little is much when God is in it, right? That being said, this new column will shed light on what may be dark in movies, and if it's not so dark, I will still shed light.

You may be wondering, "of all things, movies?" My answer to that is yes, movies. I am not sure why movies of all the things but here's why movies. Most people watch movies for entertainment or relaxation. There are others who do to learn something new or to improve rational thoughts. The truth is, however, sometimes we get so caught up in entertainment or relaxation we miss the moral of the movie.

Remember now, professionals spend years making just one good movie, let us appreciate all parts of it: the graphics, the music, the actors, the story, the script, and even the part where you chill with yourself, family, friends, or partner. When it comes to movies, If it's not giving one thing, it's not giving everything. And as much as some messages are “hidden,” they were meant to be seen, heard, and felt.

A few months ago, I found myself being more intentional about movie selections; though important, I don't only focus on the actors, the music used, the manifest of complex and quality production tools, but I take into consideration the story itself, the message, the spectacles, the mood - all the little things that we sometimes ignore. After, I ensure I spend some time to think about what this is really saying or what it possibly could be saying, subtly. Sometimes I discuss with my friends because I just can’t let the little things slide (lol). If you are like me, let’s be friends!

Every month, on the third Thursday, I will be sharing the moral of the movie (whichever movie I watch). When I share, I expect to hear from you too; the more eyes, ears, and brains, the merrier, right? What I didn’t see, maybe you will and it’d be only fair for you to share. But if that’s not something you want to take part in and you are just here to learn, get movie suggestions, or inspiration, that’s okay! Everyone is welcome.

I hope you're excited and all tuned in because I promise to bring everything: this is a production itself. This is me boosting myself, but can I get an amen? (lol) Thanks new friends, see you next month. I am Shanieka Smith and this is (turns mic to you) … THE MORAL OF THE MOVIE!