npr.org
Diverse New Movie Releases Explore Varied Themes and Styles
This week's new movie releases include Disney's Snow White, starring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot; the thriller Locked, with Bill Skarsgård trapped in a high-tech SUV; Being Maria, a biopic on Maria Schneider; and Misericordia, a queer-infused Hitchcockian thriller.
- What are the potential societal or cultural impacts of these films, and what further conversations or critical analyses might they provoke?
- These films may reflect broader cultural trends. Snow White's feminist update represents a shift in Disney storytelling. Locked's technological thriller aspects might resonate with anxieties about surveillance and control. Being Maria's focus on sexual assault in Hollywood continues the conversation about power dynamics in the industry. Misericordia's blend of genres speaks to the fluidity of storytelling and identity.
- What are the key themes and stylistic approaches of this week's most-talked-about movies, and how do they reflect contemporary cinematic trends?
- This week offers diverse cinematic experiences, from Disney's updated Snow White featuring Rachel Zegler's assertive portrayal and Gal Gadot's evil queen to the thriller Locked, where Bill Skarsgård is trapped in a high-tech SUV. Additionally, Being Maria explores the tumultuous life of Maria Schneider, and Misericordia presents a queer-infused Hitchcockian tale.
- How do the films engage with their source material or inspiration (e.g., fairy tales, real-life stories, previous films), and what are the key adaptations or reinterpretations?
- The films showcase varied themes and styles. Snow White offers a feminist revision of the classic tale, while Locked presents a suspenseful struggle for survival. Being Maria tackles the dark side of Hollywood fame and trauma, and Misericordia blends genre conventions with a focus on queer themes. Each film offers unique insights into human experiences.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is largely descriptive and balanced. Each film summary presents a mix of positive and negative aspects. The introduction mentioning "chaos" is attention-grabbing but not inherently biased towards a particular film. The order of presentation doesn't appear to prioritize one film over others.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and descriptive. While words like "spunky," "assertive," and "petty" carry connotations, they are used in a way that is descriptive rather than judgmental. The review avoids overtly loaded language.
Bias by Omission
The review focuses primarily on plot and acting performances, potentially omitting discussion of technical aspects like cinematography, editing, or musical score. Additionally, while mentioning the controversy surrounding "Last Tango in Paris", the review doesn't delve into wider discussions of consent in filmmaking or the impact on Maria Schneider's career beyond the immediate trauma of the film. The limited scope of the review might unintentionally omit a more nuanced understanding of each film's impact and reception.
Gender Bias
The review focuses on the female characters' assertiveness (Snow White) and vulnerability (Maria Schneider), but doesn't frame these traits as inherently gendered. The descriptions are largely character-driven. However, the review could benefit from discussing the gender dynamics in the films more explicitly, analyzing any underlying gender stereotypes or power imbalances in the narratives.
Sustainable Development Goals
The movie "Snow White" presents a female protagonist who is assertive, proactive, and challenges traditional gender roles. She actively pursues her goals and does not passively wait for a prince to rescue her. This portrayal promotes a positive image of women and challenges traditional gender stereotypes.