Philosophy and Film

Ken introduces today’s show by asking two questions: What is film as a distinctive art form and what is film as a distinctive medium of philosophizing? As an art form film certainly has many unique qualities, and both John and Ken consider where film stands in relation to other forms of art (such as novels and plays). John notes how it is a bit perplexing to him that we as viewers can get emotionally invested in two-dimensional characters on the big screen. Ken questions today’s guest David Thomson about just what changed in the art world when film showed up. To David, there was a fundamental change, and it has so much to do with the important role of the audience in film. The audience is constantly providing meaning when watching movies, and is kicking the film forward all the time. Film also makes certain thoughts and feelings accessible by externalizing them on the big screen for people to watch. David shares his thoughts on film as realism, as documentation, and the historical significance movies play and the trust placed in film. It is important to Ken to consider the role of the director and editor in shaping and molding actors and films as well, and just how powerful their ability to dictate the information conveyed.

Historically, there is an important cultural role that film plays. David discusses how different governments have viewed and received film in different ways, and how fantasy can creep into reality. He addresses the violence and torture seeping into our culture, as seen in both video games and international policy. To David, film and television are arguably the most powerful art forms for effecting culture. Film provokes some of the best philosophical problems and critical thinking about culture and society. At the end today’s episode, David recommends some of the all-time best directors and films that should not be missed.

• Roving Philosophical Report (SEEK TO 00:04:17): Devon Strolovitch takes us on a tour through Woody Allen and his films, and how they come to bear on philosophy. Guest Mary Nichols expresses how Allen can be viewed as a philosopher mocking philosophy. Though he often uses philosophy as a punch line to a joke, the theme of the existence of god and questions about the moral structure of the universe are pervasive in his films. 

• Sixty Second Philosopher (SEEK TO 00:49:53): Ian Shoales brings us back to the roots of the movie industry in Thomas Edison. He discusses how Edison created the motion picture camera and viewer, in addition to many other technologies. Movies progressed from first being shown to one person to entire theaters of people with the advent of the projector. Edison’s patents to protect movie production led to the full-blown industry we know today.