Why are some movie critics different from popular opinion? | Ana Julia Setim | TEDxYouth@CHPR

Key Concepts:

• Subjectivity in film appreciation
• The Oscars and critical vs. popular opinion
• Factors influencing differing opinions: entertainment vs. technical aspects, individuality
• The viewer's role in a movie's success
• The importance of voicing individual opinions

1. Introduction: Personal Experience and the Letterboxd App

The speaker begins by stating they are not a film industry specialist but will share their perspective on movies. Their interest in film criticism was sparked by using the Letterboxd app, a platform where users share opinions, rate, and review movies. This platform fostered discussions with friends, leading to deeper engagement with films. The speaker was intrigued by how the same movie could elicit vastly different experiences and opinions.

2. The "Zone of Interest" Case Study: Divergence of Opinion

The speaker uses the movie "The Zone of Interest," an Oscar winner for Best Sound and Best International Film, as a prime example of the divergence between critical and popular opinion. They express strong dislike for the film, describing it as 1 hour and 45 minutes of Nazis living normal lives next to the Holocaust, finding its message ("Nazi Germany was bad") simplistic and unimpactful. This personal opinion contrasts sharply with the film's critical acclaim, highlighting the central question: why do some movie critics (like the Oscars) differ so much from popular opinion?

3. How the Oscars Work: The Academy's Decision-Making Process

The speaker explains the Oscar selection process, emphasizing that decisions are made by active members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (actors, directors, producers). Key points about the process:

• Members are not obligated to vote.
• There are no specific criteria they must follow when voting.
• They are not obligated to watch all nominated movies.

This leads to unequal viewing and varying circumstances under which movies are watched, which the speaker considers unfair.

4. Justifications for Divergence of Opinions

The speaker proposes several reasons for the divergence between critical and popular opinions:

• Crowd Size: The larger the audience, the more likely diverse opinions will emerge. The Oscars are watched by millions, increasing the probability of disagreements.
• Entertainment vs. Technical Perspective: Academy members, being industry professionals, may focus on technical aspects (camera angles, editing, etc.) and potential mistakes, while general audiences seek entertainment. The speaker provides examples of camera shots (aerial, low angle, angle shot) and how professionals might analyze them differently than casual viewers.
• Individuality: Personal taste and experiences shape individual opinions. This individuality is crucial for debate and the very existence of awards like the Oscars. Without differing opinions, there would be no need for a "best" choice, and movies themselves might not exist, as they are made to target specific audiences.

5. The Viewer's Role: Making the Movie

The speaker argues that viewers play a crucial role in a movie's success, not just through ticket sales and streaming subscriptions, but also through word-of-mouth. By discussing movies (positively or negatively), viewers provide free advertising and contribute to the film's cultural impact.

6. The Importance of Voicing Your Opinion: A Personal Anecdote

The speaker emphasizes the importance of voicing one's opinion, even when it differs from the majority. They share a personal anecdote about expressing their dislike for Quentin Tarantino's movies (specifically "Reservoir Dogs" and "Inglourious Basterds") and being told they had "no grounds" for their opinion. Despite Tarantino's critical and popular acclaim (two Oscars, 16 prestige awards), the speaker felt their opinion was invalidated. This experience highlighted that even in supportive environments, one's opinion can be challenged.

7. Conclusion: Your Opinion Matters

The speaker concludes by urging the audience not to be silenced, reminding them that their opinions are valuable and contribute to the film industry's success. They emphasize that individual perspectives are worth over $40 trillion in box office revenue.

Key Quotes:

• "The message that it passes along is Nazi Germany was bad well no way" (referring to "The Zone of Interest").
• "Do not listen to her she has no grounds for what she's saying" (regarding the speaker's opinion on Tarantino's movies).
• "Your opinion is worth over $40 trillion in box office."

Technical Terms:

• Letterboxd: A social platform for sharing movie opinions and reviews.
• Aerial Shot: A camera shot from above, used to contextualize the scene.
• Low Angle Shot: A camera shot from below, often used to make a character seem superior (hero shot).
• Angle Shot: A camera shot with a tilted angle, creating a sense of unease.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The speaker argues that film appreciation is subjective and influenced by various factors, including individual taste, technical knowledge, and the desire for entertainment. The divergence between critical acclaim (as exemplified by the Oscars) and popular opinion is natural and stems from these differing perspectives. Ultimately, the speaker emphasizes the importance of voicing individual opinions, as they contribute to the film industry's success and cultural impact.