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Most people I know love to watch movies. They watch to be entertained, but the educational impact of movies cannot be denied. We learn in subtle ways because we tend to agree, disagree, question, condemn, and praise the characters, the plot, the decisions, and actions in the movie. Some go even further and question why the director made the movie a certain way, and offer alternative plots and endings. The smart movie producers will see a business opportunity in this phenomenon, the weak ones will be offended by the criticism.

You will enjoy watching movies even more when you know what to look for. And guess what, someone has actually written a book on the subject! Now you don’t have to be a film maker to know what to look for. Read this book to understand how movies are used to build character.

Movies are a powerful medium. It has been used for propaganda by evil people seeking to gain political power. It has been used to raise awareness to injustice. An important thing about a movie is that you have a captive audience once you get them in their seats. YOU are a captive audience once the movie starts. You need to be aware that you could be a victim of manipulation if you are not careful. Mindfulness when watching a movie is the way to learn and not be manipulated.

Movies reflect our culture more than we think. Because they are popular, your peers and competitors are watching them, even if you are not. Thus, you are forced to watch movies, even if you think it is a waste of time. By watching intelligently, you will get something out of it. Since there are more movies made than you could possibly watch, you have to choose intelligently before you can watch intelligently.

(Thanks to Judy for making me aware of this book)