The Oscars: Video Production with a Social Agenda

by Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@graphicdesignschoolreview.com
Graphic Design School Review Columnist

If you want a barometer of our current cultural climate, just watch this year's Oscars. Highlighting the best in video production efforts, there are going to be some social trends addressed that moviegoers just can't ignore. It's perfect for fans of movies with a social agenda.

Judging by the movies that are up for honors at the Oscars this year, our culture is beginning to embrace an entirely new mindset. The video productions that will be honored all share one common trait: they present our evolving attitudes toward homosexuality and other social issues. I don't know if sensitivity training is paying off, but you will be able to tell immediately that this isn't your father's Oscars. Some of the video productions make startling remarks on some very taboo issues.

Video Production with Attitude

• Homosexuality. "Brokeback Mountain," this year's favorite to win big, explores homosexual relationships between cowboys.
• Corporate Greed. "Syriana," starring George Clooney, is an indictment of the corporate greed that runs our oil industry.
• Transexuality. "Transamerica" is a video production effort that investigates gender bending.

Video Production Training: Earning Your Degree

The makers of these movies bring more to the table than a social conscience. They also have the video production training to make their grand visions a reality. Perhaps you are a closet movie maker, but lack the knowledge of the industry to make your voice heard. Video production training can get you started down this exciting path.

• Environment. When you complete your video production training, you will be working on high-tech studio sets in Hollywood.
• Outlook. With our insatiable appetite for entertainment, there will always be a demand for video production experts with training.
• Education. The typical video production path is a two to four year training program at a technical school or through an online college.

Don't just watch the movies and dream. Make the movies and earn the praise that your creative mind deserves. Start with video production training.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the education and technology scenes in major U.S. cities. He holds a master's in education from Georgia State University.