Catfish - Applying a Method of Rhetorical Criticism - Research Paper Example

?Introduction The ability to create cultural artifacts within society and to show this as a reflection of different idealists is the main objective of many films and pieces of art. In the movie, “Catfish,” there is a component of reflecting the values in society as well as the several changes which have been made within the culture. The cultural artifacts are based on creating a question of credibility, as well as one which magnetizes aspects of society which are often ignored. This particular documentary is one which is specific to the ideologies of post – structuralism, specifically as it defines and magnetizes the realities of society and culture while showing how structure of different portals and meanings from human culture created from this become the basis of interest. When evaluating the movie in these terms, it is one which can be seen as the accepted and rejected ideologies of structure that are currently within society. Justification The popularity of “Catfish” is one which continues to grow in society, specifically because of the initial responses which occurred from the audience and critics within society. The movie is important for two reasons. The first is that it shows today’s culture and the way in which it is constructed in terms of relationships, identity and technology. The second is from the reaction which occurred in society, specifically which led to widespread popularity not for the movie, but instead because of the majority of individuals which would not believe that the movie was realistic. These two constructs show that there is an important rhetoric which links to the movie and which provides an understanding of how identity is currently formed within society. A majority of Catfish’s audience were angry with the filmmakers and with the film’s advertisement campaign. Critics were saying this is the type of film Alfred Hitchcock would direct, but this is clearly not the type of movie he would be involved in. Trailers for the film “hinted of Blair Witch Project-like-shaky-hand horror.” (Tech Cocktail). Many people questioned the documentary’s credibility as well calling it a hoax and believing it was set-up, as opposed to being a genuine documentary. Most stated that they would not be able to admit or believe that the outcome from the movie could be true or whether it was another deception from the filmmakers. Many believed that, since the film was about deception, the filmmakers also had the same deceiving commentary with the documentary. The strong debates which came out of the movie, as well as the power which this particular film had are the important elements to look at with the rhetorical criticism as well as the understanding of society and culture in reaction to the movie. The attention which “Catfish” has brought proves that the topic remains relevant to study at this particular cultural moment because it encompasses many aspects of our use of the Internet and how it has changed not only how we communicate, but how it has changed our lives completely. With the advent of social media, sites such as Facebook have changed the world and the ways in which we communicate with others on a global scale. Catfish draws in on how the Internet, Google, Facebook and etc. can impact our lives in so many different ways. It speaks volume about our current times, specifically in regards to online dating and how it can have a negative impact on our lives. We never really stop to think about its downsides and its dangers. The Internet has made our lives so much easier and we have access to infinite amounts of information at the tips of our fingers. There is little reason for any to question the tool, specifically because it is now believed to be revolutionary making many blind about some of the realities which come with the use of the tool.   The Internet, online dating, and social media networks are things that a majority of the world’s population uses on a daily basis for just about everything and anything. The urgency; however, is the way in which it is used. Many are not aware of the impact of the Internet and whether our information is secure. There is also not a large representation of the use of social media networks, specifically with online dating sites. The ability to have access to information also leads to the ability to create deception and a sense of reality which can be constructed, as opposed to being true. Despite revolutionary and innovative mediums, such as Facebook and their positive impacts, we cannot forget about the present and current dangers we subject ourselves to by simply becoming a part of the movement. In today’s technology driven generation, it’s important to understand and learn about all aspects of the social media world. The reviews and reactions to “Catfish” generate a secondary understanding of social and popular culture as well as how this relates to the misuse of technology. There are many which stated that the documentary, while true elements may have been involved, was based on setting up the scenario and building a thriller out of the main events which occurred. The rumors that are associated with Facebook and social interactions are often based on being careful and not trusting individuals that are online, specifically because of the ability to build a fake identity. It also shows how there are several misunderstandings with how technology is used, what social interactions may lead to and what the believed trends are with being online (Zeitchik, 2010). Instead of the film being based on only the popularity of online interactions, there is also a question of how many in popular culture may feel about the realities of the interactions. The belief that one can build a fake identity for a changed lifestyle, questions from reviewers over whether this is true and the popular spins on the documentary all point to the curiosity about social interactions as well as the misunderstandings that there are about online technology uses. The documentary is able to display how most in popular culture, while following social media trends, don’t understand the complex realities that are limited by the use of technology (Rosenthal, 2007). The justification of this rhetorical component is one which can then be seen on two levels. The first is from the amount of impact which technology has today, as well as how many in the culture are unaware of this. The highlights through Catfish show the capabilities and the dangers of technology when it is abused and other alternatives occur within society. However, there are also components that relate to the responses. The movie quickly gained in popularity and was questioned and debated about in popular society. This is important to note not only because of the legitimacy of the film. The responses from society show that there are several misunderstandings about technology, abuses which may occur and the capacity of many to be a part of the abuses of technology. The cultural artifact is one which then becomes associated with a different perspective about the often mis-constructed and overlooked components of technology. Interpretation of Catfish This particular artifact defines the controversies surrounding the trends on Facebook and the complexities which are associated with the cultural and societal beliefs with Facebook. The documentary becomes a reflection of the culture and the current questions that are associated with building an online reputation. This paper contends that the acceleration and pervasiveness of technology has led to a system of mis-communication in which a cultural climate based on deception and dependency has manifested itself. However, the documentary isn’t important to explore only because of the complexities now in society with technology. The debates about the reality of this documentary as well as whether it is an artifact used only to idolize today’s trends further show that the cultural climate is growing into one based on technologies and the false representations associated with this. The concept of “Catfish” is one which can first be explored through the concepts of online interaction and the way in which individuals portray themselves within the world. Whether this documentary holds truth or not, there are questions related to the strong response from society. A response which is noted by most reviewing the film is that the interaction between the two having the relationship over Facebook seems genuine. This is important to note as it creates a commentary about society and how the social participation is now leading into a world where technology and factors based on relationships through the computer are accepted and acted upon continuously. The relationship is essential to understanding the power of social networks as well as the belief in connection which is created when using technology (Geoghegan, 2011). The amount of time spent in the film with the long distance relationship without the meeting is one which is acceptable and which most would apply as applicable to the way in which most relate to technology in the present day (Kirk, 2010). Another exploration about the use of Facebook and the social participation occurring is based on the ease of use with most, specifically with using and manipulating technology. The woman who is able to change her appearance, demeanor and the persona which she carries is consistent through the entire movie, even though it becomes fake. What is as important is with the capturing of the film. When speaking with the film makers, they state first that there was never intention to make this into a film; however, the diary of events was easy to record and keep consistent. When things started to turn was when the filming was able to become a main part of the documentary. This shows that the combination of social interactions and technology is continuing to emerge with a natural culture which is based on the simple to use and growing technology as a component of the culture (Mullen, 2010). The simplistic use of technology and the application used for social interactions is not only growing because of the ideas of culture and the ability to create a change in lifestyle from simple technology. Another important component is the establishment of technology and social interactions as an element of popular culture, as opposed to being a marginalized group of individuals interested in high – end technology. This particular concept has not only grown into a basic documentary, but has allowed MTV to take the idea and create a spin on the documentary, all which targets social interactions and the reality of what occurs behind the scenes with the relationships (Anderton, 2010). The popularity of this is one which is based on the mediated use of technology combined with the ability to create a different social reality with others that are online. This growing trend is one which is fostering different forms of social behavior while altering the way in which many are looking at new ways of socialization and trends in the culture (Bryant, Jackson, Smallwood, 2006). When looking at the cultural and technological components, there is the ability to justify the movie and the rhetoric from various perspectives. The first is based on the belief which popular culture has over whether it can be reality that an individual can fake their lifestyle online. The second is based on the understanding that technology is limited, which is shown through the interactions. If one believes that this documentary is complete, then the social reactions follow one group which shows the limitations of Facebook. If one believes that this is false, then there is the belief that these particular social interactions don’t occur online. Instead of an interest in the truth, the responses question both sides of the reality of social interactions with technology (Ehrlich, 2010). The documentary and the reality which is exposed is one that doesn’t remain important because of the specific interactions which occur on the screen. Instead, it is the wide responses which have been received about the reality of social interactions, whether this can be true and what the benefits are of creating a different identity online. Another aspect which is considered as a part of this is with the ending of the film, which exposes the reality that the woman lives as well as the sad elements that are focused on this reality and the difficulties of the life which she has. When looking at this in comparison to the online social interactions which she has, as well as the admitted statements related to wanting to create a different and fictional life, there is an understanding of how social networks may benefit those using the materials. Even though there are questions over the reality of this, each individual is questioning if the online networks, specifically with Facebook, provide for more beneficial actions by interacting with others in a place where an individual doesn’t know the reality of everything you are living. This creates a safe community that leads to the psychological interactions that allow an individual to benefit personally from the false interactions (Ellison, Steinfield, 2007). The documentary reactions show that this specific question is one that is based on whether individuals are creating this false reality and if it exists outside of the technological social worlds. The reflections of the psychological intentions and social interactions mirror those that are a part of the reactions seen from reviewers and those online. The component of the story is to show that the Internet provides a shield for social interactions which allow one to create a different identity and to live in a reality that doesn’t truly exist. However, this is one which is psychologically based on other needs and desires. While many have heard this story before, there are others who are stating that the use of the Internet for the deceptions is one which is common and which creates controversy, because of the feeling of safety, instead of the need to create a true reality. More important, the reactions to the film show that there is the same question of what type of reality is being created and whether it can be depicted as a true story. These two controversies show that there is not only a strong response to social networking, but also applications which are associated directly with the question of realities and how it can be manipulated with technology, either through the recording of a documentary or through online portfolios (Rain, 2011). These different perspectives of “Catfish” create the documentary into one which can be evaluated for rhetoric. The importance is first from the amount of popularity which comes from the Internet, social interactions, online dating and the styles and trends which are in society. This is furthered with the responses which occurred in society and the popularity which was based on the belief that the movie was a hoax. These aspects justify the use of the artifact as one which defines several elements of popular culture as well as the activities, lifestyles, belief systems and concept of identity which is a part of the current social order. By having these as the main components, there is the ability to understand what the basic concepts are in relation to social activities and acceptance. The rhetoric of the film is one which is a pivotal point in describing and questioning the current society and the accepted behaviors which are a part of the culture. Evaluation With the elements of “Catfish” through both the reactions as well as the display of culture, are also several concepts which portray the communication style of post –structuralism. “Catfish” becomes a portrayal of the realities of society and culture as well as the concepts which are often overlooked within society. It is further refined because of the popularity which it gained in society and the reactions which many had to the elements of “Catfish.” The reaction of critics and debates of several, as well as the responses from places such as MTV, which are now recreating the film through a series, shows that the ideals of culture and reality are the highlight of the film. The use of technology and the applications to society all show the same concept of convincing society of the alternative realities of the Internet. This moves into a post – structuralism point of view in identifying what is needed for the ideal of defining society. The first concept which identifies the post – structuralist viewpoint is one which is based on the question of identity. The main definition which is a part of this is based on the ability to deconstruct the psychology and opposition which is a part of a movie to see how it relates to the overall trends that are in society. There is the ability, through showing the opposition and reactions, to understand identity as well as what society believes in a given situation. There is also the ability to understand communication styles, variations of identity and the way in which this is associated with the overall components of psychological responses. When dissecting these various components, there is the ability to understand how the cultural artifact is a reflection within society (Dews, 1986). The first area of cultural identity which can be identified is through the concept of online dating and what this means within society. The online dating is one which both the girl and boy being filmed are completely involved in, both which claim a romantic relationship which might lead somewhere. This is furthered when the boy meets the girl, specifically with showing how he reacts in hesitation and with his heart being broken. This is also noted when the questions of privacy come up for the male in the movie, specifically when there begins to be some complexities with the relationship in which he wants to break up with the girl. These parts of cultural identity all identify the realistic concepts of identity, dating and what this means today. The constructs of gender, in these particular instances, are based on the understandings and misinterpretations of romantic relationships, belief in what a relationship should be and the desires which are acceptable among both genders within society. More important, this relates to the masculine communication style, which is discreet and which changes, guides and shifts the relationship through the online portals (Clegg, 2006). These different elements of gender identity and the relationship to online dating as an accepted form of romance become the main question, specifically because it is a direct reflection to society. The cultural artifact builds a rhetoric by questioning why and how each individual could blindly accept the identity of the other while creating the necessary relationship. The concept of gender identity isn’t only seen within this artifact through the male that is being taped. When going to the woman’s house and finding out the realities of the situation, there is also a post – strucutralist viewpoint which is seen, specifically as the identity transforms from one to a different form and becomes dissected with what the woman represented and what she now represents. The woman moves from being the ideal woman for anyone who is dating to being one who lives in a reality which is masked in a different manner. The dissection of identity from this viewpoint is important to note because it shows how there is a sense of acceptable means for gender identity, as well as others which are looked down upon. The identity of the woman can also be dissected from a feminist perspective. The first part to this is the ability for the woman to create an identity which automatically attracts the male to her, all which are represented through cultural idealizations. The female communication is based first on creating a specific type of attraction through looks and identifying herself as a painter and one which is considered smart and talented. The construction of the female identity is one which isn’t authentic, but creates the attraction from the male. This is a cultural attraction which appears, and which shows the cultural acceptance of a specific identity. When the woman is found as raising two handicapped children and having a husband who is unable to provide what is needed, there is a changing viewpoint in what the woman is as a type of gender identity. The first is that the gender identity which is now presented is deceptive and the second is that the woman is no longer acceptable or idealized in society, specifically because of the cultural reality which she lives in. The agency of feminism in this communication style then creates a stigma around what the woman represents. Instead of seeing the concept of reality and gender identity, the basis of the movie becomes based on the woman as a liar and not representing her reality. This is significant as it shows the concept of cultural attraction as well as how this often covers the reality of who women are and what their lifestyle is. This also relates specifically to the feminist construction of gender identity and how it relates to alternative realities by fantasy and desire, as opposed to the realistic lifestyles which many lead (Clegg, 2006). Another component which relates to this comes from the cultural identity which has been built on technology. When using technology, many expect to have a response which is based on gathering information, connecting to others and having a genuine relationship which is in society. One of the reactions which occurred from this movie was based on whether it was real and whether it could represent an artifact within society. From the post – structuralist point of view, there is an understanding that this reaction shows how those who are using technology expect to have reactions which are based specifically on gathering information, building genuine relationships and connecting to others with the use of the Internet. The concept of abuse, safety and other problems with the Internet are often disregarded within society. The reaction of the critics believing that the movie wasn’t realistic is a reflection of how the cultural artifact was based on the misunderstandings of technology that are able to reconstruct and change the basis of reality (Poster, White, 2007). The construction of identity becomes the main question when looking at the abuse and use of technology throughout the movie. More important than the reality of what occurred in the movie is the intersection which occurred with the development of identity throughout the film. The woman and man both in the relation held a specific belief and cultural affiliation with each other, specifically which related to the concept of identity. The identity was based on the use of technology providing information and connections, understanding of gender relationships which were associated with this and connections associated with technology. When these became masks that led to problems within the film, there was an intersection of identity. The beliefs which the audience and the individual had created were no longer constructed correctly and there was the inability to believe in what should have been believable. This is a statement about the societal acceptance of taking identities for what is seen, as opposed to looking at the perspectives and angles which would change the different relationships (Knudsen, 2006). The same concept of intersections with identity can be seen through the response of critics and society. The first reaction which led into debate was with the belief that the documentary was framed and wasn’t true, specifically to create a belief that technology wasn’t secure and could create a mask of identity. The reaction continued with the belief that the documentary was also framed and not set up to depict a sense of reality. This reaction is one which is important to note because it shows how the construction of identity is one which isn’t taken from different perspectives or realities of what may exist. There is also a lack of belief in the construction of diversity, not only with gender or race, but also in terms of culture and how one may exist in society. The woman represents the diversity of one who appears one way but lives in a reality which most couldn’t believe. This sense of not believing the woman is living in a reality shows that the critics and initial responses in society don’t accept the alternative or intersected identity. However, when seeing the woman posing as the younger girl, it was believable to the audience, showing that there is an accepted and misrepresented construct of reality and how this is associated with one’s identity (Knudsen, 2006). Another application which can be seen with the post – structuralism and the question of identity in culture is based on the ideology of materialism and the relationship which many have in society toward this. Technology is only one tool, or form of materialism, which is used in the construction of providing information. The relationship which most have to this is built on remaining updated with information and to buy things that help to identify the individual in relation to materialism. The concept of materialism as a form of acceptable identity is one possibility of why so many reacted to the film and the communication which it gave about the other side of technology. The use of Facebook, the Internet and other applications to the sense of identity relates directly to the disbelief that this form of materialism could cause a sense of not being dependent on the most popular concepts of the time. The identity which is created is one which shows the ideal of the materialist culture, both with what occurs through the movie as well as from the reactions of either latching to the information or rejecting it for the debates which occurred in society (Tilley, 2006). When looking at the several components of “Catfish,” it can be seen that there are various elements which construct identity and which create a question of culture. Gender identity, questions of realistic identity, technology and the acceptance of materialism are all the factors which create a presence of identity in today’s culture. Through this movie, each are questioned, specifically by showing a dividing line between what is acceptable and what should be rejected within society. The outcome of the movie as well as the responses which occurred from those in society as a rejection of the movie are important to note because it shows a sense of identity from the film. The accepted communication styles as well as the popularity of specific ideals of the Internet and relationships lead to the main aspects of identity within society. The outcome is one which leads to a post – structuralism point of view of identity. This is one which presents a certain reality of identity as a part of the movie, then deconstructs it slowly to show the potential realities and perspectives which are associated with identity. Conclusion The concept of “Catfish” is one which remains an important cultural artifact in examining today’s society. The first level to this is based on the examination of technology, materialism, gender identity and acceptable actions that are part of society. This is followed by the actions and reactions which occur in the film, as well as the ending, which shows that the true identity differs from what may appear in other sources. The importance of this is one which shows the construction of identity as it is seen from today’s viewpoint, while providing rhetoric of the accepted or rejected ideals of identity. This is not only seen through the movie, but is reflected in the reactions to the film. The amount of individuals which debated over the realism of the film, as well as the several which rejected the ideal of the created identity through the film shows that the concept of identity which was displayed in the film is one which is associated directly with today’s culture. The concept of society and culture then becomes linked to what one accepts as reality as well as the constructs which are made in terms of acceptable proponents within the culture. References Anderton, Ethan. (2010). “MTV Developing Reality Show Based on CATFISH Documentary.” Colider Retrieved from: http://collider.com/mtv-reality-show-catfish/83590/. This article will describe how the popular debates of “Catfish” have led into a part of the social networking culture and the complexities associated with this. The concept will then show how this has led into further investigations over the phenomena of social networking by using the MTV show to propel this idea forward. Bryant, Alison, Ashley Jackson, Amber Smallwood. (2006). “Iming, Text Messaging and Adolescent Social Networks.” Journal of Computer Mediated Communication 11 (2). This particular article refers to the ideas of social networks and the growth of technology as well as how they are becoming established areas for youth. The concept shows not only how this is changing the use of technology but also is altering the ways in which individuals communicate with each other at a mass level. Clegg, Sue. (2006). “The Problem of Agency in Feminism: A Critical Realistic Approach.” Gender and Education18 (3). This article will be used to understand the agency of feminism as well as how both female and male communication creates a sense of identity, definition and meaning between both sides. This relates directly to the film and the constructs of gender identity which are created, both which are outside of the realities of gender. Dews, P. (1986). “Adorno, Post Structuralism and the Critique of Identity.” New Left Review 15 (4). This article refers to the main definition of post – structuralism as well as how it is used to dissect the concept of cultural identity and the meanings which are created in society, which assists in the overall evaluation of what “Catfish” means as an artifact. Ehrlich, David. (2010). “Catfish Lawsuit May Expose Truth Behind Documentary.” Cinematical Retrieved from: http://blog.moviefone.com/2010/12/04/catfish-lawsuit/. This article shows the controversies and questions arising behind “Catfish,” specifically with the controversy that the documentary is fake and isn’t offering true insight into what is occurring in the field of social media with depictions which were heightened for a popular response. Ellison, NB, C Steinfield. (2007). “The Benefits of Facebook Friends: Social Capital and College Students’ Use of Online Social Networks.” Journal of Computer Science 15 (4). This article will explore the idea of social capital, which is associated with building friends, expanding into networks and creating different associations with online social elements. This will be inclusive of the Facebook networks that are enhancing the use of connecting to others. Geoghegan, Kevin. (2011). “DIY Film Making.” BBC News Retrieved from: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-12751244. This article shows how the concept of the documentary is another form of technology which is being heightened and adding into the different elements of making films as well as the dangers behind the easy to use technology and the reflections this imposes on society, specifically in defining differences between reality and fantasy. Joost, Henry, Ariel Schulman. (2010). Catfish New York: Rogue Pictures. This picture was watched to show the element of social networking and the popularity which is in society, as well as the false identity which can easily be created on social platforms and change the way in which individuals are associated with a given identity. Kirk, Jeremy. (2010). “Review: Life and Art Commingle in the Documentary ‘Catfish.’” First Showing Retrieved from: http://www.firstshowing.net/2010/review-life-and-art-commingle-in-the-documentary-catfish/. This article will review the ideas of the documentary “Catfish.” The description will show how there is an element of truth with the documentary as well as depictions that are falsely represented and which don’t show the realities of what is occurring within society and on Facebook. Knudsen, Susanne. (2006). “Intersectionality – A Theoretical Inspiration in the Analysis of Minority Cultures and Identities.” Caught in the Web or Lost in a Textbook 15 (6). This article will be used to explain the concept of intersection, when one identity turns into another, specifically which represents the minority of what is a part of society. When relating this to “Catfish,” it can be seen that there is an understanding that a change or intersection with the identity of the woman leads to a separate reality. Mullen, Luke. (2010). “Interview: ‘Catfish’ Filmmakers Get Real About Their Documentary.” Film School Rejects Retrieved from: http://www.filmschoolrejects.com/features/interview-catfish-filmmakers-get-real-about-their-documentary.php. This interview will be used to give the perspective and views of those creating the film as well as the concepts associated with their ideals about social networking and the popularity of this. The concepts which they show will also provide perspective of the controversies that are a part of social networking and the ability to use technology easily and in several different ways. Poster, Mark, Andy White. (2007). “Information Please.” Contemporary Political Theory (6). This article will be used to explain the culture which is surrounding the Internet, specifically with the belief that the Internet is a form of gathering truthful information, connecting to others which are genuine and having the social connections within society. This will be used to explain the debate which arose from the cultural artifact used. Rain. (2011). ‘Catfish, A Documentary.” Rainy Day Thoughts Retrieved from: http://rainydaythought.blogspot.com/2011/03/catfish-documentary.html. This blog will be used as an example of the effectiveness of technology and the documentary. There will also be an explanation of how individuals who are using online portals are cautious of identity with the false representation being prevalent, as well as how this creates a disconnection from true social interactions within society. Rosenthal, A. (2007). Writing, Directing and Producing Documentary Films and Videos. New York: Routledge. This book will be used to describe the process of producing documentary films as well as the stigma which is created around the film. The portrayal that is created, as well as the social responses defined often change the associations which one has with the film. Tilley, Christopher. (2006). Handbook of Material Culture. Sage Publications: London. This book will be used to understand the ideals of material culture and how this creates a sense of identity. When looking at “Catfish,” it can be seen that part of the identity is based on the construction of material culture, both through the movie and from the reactions to the film. Zeitchik, Steven. (2010). “Catfish Blurs Line Between Documentary and Feature Film.” Los Angeles Times (September). This article will be used to show the oppositional viewpoints of the documentary made. This will include the disbelief in the technology leading to a false profile and the story behind the fake identity. There are also descriptions of how the social media is reflective of the false identity that is a part of the Facebook portals and which doesn’t lead to a connection with true social interactions. Read More