Contributing writer for The Artifice.
Junior Contributor I
Defining a true fanIt is becoming a more and more common divisive argument between us: what truly makes someone a fan of an actor or a musician or a movie? Over time it has become less credible to simply enjoy a finished product (regardless of its category) and more about the politics of who knows the most facts, easter eggs, and can quote the most lines/lyrics etc. It is becoming more and more evident that the intentions of those who claim to belong to a fanbase, are becoming less satisfied with the simple act of belonging to a group of likeminded individuals and instead about outcompeting our neighbours. What credits a claim to being a fan of something?
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In Defense of the Star Wars Prequels | |
This was a really interesting read because I was positioned to agree with your title before I’d even read any of the article. I think what really drives the message of this home, is the clip from I think the Jimmy Fallon show, where people who identified with the film and the culture spoke in a room on the impact/meaning the film had on their lives. The main actor then walked out and greeted each one, leaving them all in shock, awe and tears. The video had me in tears, leaving me grateful that I’ve always grown up with representation. I’m so excited for this generation to grow up with such strong characters leading the way through such a positive movement. I can’t wait to see what comes next! | Black Panther: Not the First Black Superhero Film but the Most Impactful |
I couldn’t agree more! Aren’t we all just people that fall somewhere in the middle, ultimately it’s our decisions that are good or bad? A backstory or choice doesn’t make us who we are, we define that on our own and how we want to be portrayed to the rest of the world. It seems so ridiculous the notion that characters can only be one or the other when this doesn’t reflect real life. | Antagonist-Centered Stories: What Can We Learn? |
This was a really interesting read where I found myself nodding multiple times! It seems like such a basic concept to be hiding under our noses, but perhaps that’s because most of us use these modes as an escape and don’t want to be reminded of our less redeemable qualities. | Antagonist-Centered Stories: What Can We Learn? |
I think this is one of those battles you’re never going to finish fighting, but in saying that, it’s super refreshing to see this take being made and supported so loyally. As someone who grew up as the prequels were being made (despite being introduced to the originals first by my dad), I’ve never really understood the bandwagon of hate for the prequels. I hold the Star Wars franchise very dear to my heart and choose to find the positives and strengths in each individual film, otherwise what’s the point of being a ‘fan’? You tear any film/story a part, like you’ve already stated, and you’re going to come up disappointed. And really, if it’s such a big issue to you, just don’t watch the ones you don’t like as much as your favourites – it’s as simple as that!