All film makers have a story to tell; whether it's about creating machines to produce low-cost sanitary pads or society problems existing in their country. It is their documentaries that bring messages across the audience. It does not matter whether their documentaries are shot from the best angles or whether the film is screened in high definition (HD). It is extremely essential that the audience understands and comprehends where the director comes from, whether it is from the perspective of the lead in the story or the supporting actors. For example, in the "Menstrual Man" documentary, the message is very clear and precise; he wants to bring up the level of awareness of sanitary hygiene in women, especially those living in rural areas. The women are well aware of the "double As" that he talked about, but they are indeed missing out one extra "A", awareness. His machines create job opportunities intended for women and women are definitely more open than before, of course, without the presence of an elder man. Besides that, he is creating an awareness, also for rural employment. It is a serious problem but nobody seems to be concerned. Lastly, he brought out a point that is so significant that if it is not brought out, it would not be doing him, the women he helped and education any justice, he stated that education is a tool for survival, not to create innovations to help the society that is in great need of support. To that, I am in deep agreement, education is to give us a certificate to qualify for a job that would aid us in survival, in the end, a college drop-out would be our savior for a major problem, for example, the "Menstrual Man", Bill Gates, etc.
Every form of music, paintings and dance has its own purposes, whether it is an art is based on the interpretation by the audience. Perhaps, Korean Pop music has no art to an adult, but to a teenager, it contains something more than handsome looks and hot abs. Local films have art in them, not every single one of them are filled with Singaporean humor and slapstick comedy. There are some that contains deep messages that will leave an ever-lasting impression in the audience's minds. For example, Singapore Dreaming, one of the first local films, have attained awards for depicting Singaporean's dreams, something so simple yet deep. Local films do indeed have some form of art, being able to display our local culture with a form of accuracy. It is something that we, citizens of Singapore, can resonate with. However, there is still space for improvement for local films, particularly fictitious movies. It certainly has not reached the standards of a Hollywood production or Disney animations, but in time, we would find ourselves on par with Hollywood, but before that, there is a path paved with obstacles to overcome. Short-term obstacles like financial budgeting, manpower, availability of venues, logistics, etc. will only be overcome with great preparation, however, long-term obstacles, like the popularity of Singapore's films are hard to accumulate without a strong foundation of impressive films and hard-to-come-by actors and actresses.
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