aliasfan said:
Any ideas on what to write?
'Using the persona of a mian character or author of your prescribed text, write a feature article that explores representation of truth'
Write about the episodes, linking each to a factor that affects the way truth is told, or manufactured.
We haven't finished watching all 6 episodes, so I can only give you a little bit of help on 3.
The Siege: This can be linked to the lack of scruples the media displays when it comes to ratings and profit. Backing up with evidence, this is seen when "Frontline" first hears of the siege. Instead of being sympathetic, Brain immediately instructs the crew to try get "a whole half hour on this one". Upon discovering that Mrs. Forbes emotional footage was not recorded, Brooke requests her to "cry again". Also, the "Frontline" team instructs the gunman, Gavin, to put the phone on hold, to ensure their exclusivity.
We Ain't Got Dames: This can be linked to the influence ratings, and the pursuit of ratings have upon the stories. "Frontline" goes to great exaggerated lengths to raise the ratings in the female categories when they hear that women think of their program as "sleazy, tabloid, bullying". Evidence: Mike's promo, which is aimed to appeal to female viewers. His sweatshop story has also been turned into a fashion report. Even though the same footage was used, the truth had been altered.
Smaller Fish To Fry: This is linked to the influence power has over truth, and the manipulation of truth to create what the viewers want to see. After being criticised by Stuart Littlemore on "Media Watch", Mike attempts to go for the "big fish". However, his bank story could not be aired because the bank has authority over the media. Conflict arises when the media wants to show viewers stories of scandals that do not happen everyday, but at the same time cannot air stories of real scandals due to the authority and power involved. Therefore they can only attack "little fish" - people who do not have the power to fight back.
In addition:
Frontline FAQ <- go there. Thanks to goan_crazy.
