1) Problem: The unstable state of the world and the role of film and media.
The current situation of our world
We need solutions and capable leaders at all levels to solve our current earthly problems -problems such as war, terrorism, aids epidemics, child abuse, human trafficking, hate crimes, environmental destruction, over population, dwindling natural resources, culture clashes, poverty, oppression, ethnic cleansing, economic crisis, family disintegration, political and religious corruption, and the culture of fear. But it begins with awareness.
The relationship between film and culture
Films are cultural artifacts created by specific cultures, which reflect those cultures, and, in turn, affect them. Film is considered to be an important art form, a source of popular entertainment and a powerful method for educating – or indoctrinating – citizens. (Wikipedia)
It’s the movies that have really been running things in America ever since they were invented. They show you what to do, how to do it, when to do it, how to feel about it, and how to look how you feel about it. – Andy Warhol
Films depict mentorship and serve as mentors
Movies can and do have tremendous influence in shaping young lives in the realm of entertainment towards the ideals and objectives of normal adulthood. -Walt Disney
You know what your problem is, it’s that you haven’t seen enough movies – all of life’s riddles are answered in the movies. – Steve Martin
2) Accountability: What are we going to do about it?
If the world is in an increasing state of crisis and film and media play a vital role in the influence of culture, what can we do about it? Is film and media guiding us out of this mess or compounding the problem? What can the citizens of our nations, parents, teachers, students, artists, engineers, journalists, advertisers, youth, seniors, leaders and governments do?
3) Solution: Education and Empowerment.
What kind of life and world do we want? What we watch determines what we think. What we think determines what we do. What we do creates our world. Therefore, we must discern what we watch or we will promote ignorance, poor moral values and add to the crisis of our planet. People are being destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hos. 4:6).
There is a need to teach or guide viewers of all ages on how to have healthy perspectives on movies. Just as you must make proper dietary choices for a healthy body so too you must make wise decisions for your soul and your spirit. Diet also depends on your state and your level of growth and maturity. What is appropriate for an adult is not appropriate for a child. Finally, there are just some things that are toxic and must never be eaten or ingested. TCIFF aims to positively influence what kind of media an individual chooses to ingest not only in theatres but in all places and on a daily basis. Our ultimate hope is to develop a media conscious culture by raising awareness, inspiring and empowering people to take action and responsibility.
