A blog examining the impact of today’s visual media on today’s society.
“There is no greater power on this earth than story”
— Libba Bray (Author)
ABOUT:
Whether it’s a movie, documentary, or tv show, visual media surrounds us everywhere where we go. Many pieces of media have a purpose behind it, urging us to learn something new, or open our eyes to problems that need solving. This is a space to learn about the meaning and impact of various forms of visual media today, as well as gain ideas on how to take action towards issues and inequities facing society.
What To Read:
-
Film
From feature film blockbusters to indie short films, the media of the moving image allows an audience to experience an intimate and vulnerable story. Click below to learn about the profound influence cinema has on viewers around the world.
-
Documentary
Non-fiction storytelling had proven to be an extremely effective way of communicating an urgent message to audiences. From feature length documentaries to doc series, documentaries are an entertaining and fast way to learn about people and the world around us.
-
TV
Unlike films, television shows allow an audience to get to know characters and stories over long periods of time. From sci-fi programs to documentary series, television allows for the creators to expand topics over many episodes or seasons.
Check out our Contact Page for questions, comments, and general inquiries.
Greta Gerwig’s summer blockbuster ‘Barbie’ uses a playful and fun plot line to communicate important messages about gender roles and the power and struggles of women.
February is Black History Month - a great time to delve into media that educates, inspires and tells the stories of Black Americans and those around the world who have made an impact. While the movies listed below can (and should) be watched year round, this month is an extra reminder to investigate and learn from these stories.
A film in Spanish set in Mexico City, two teens grapple with following their dreams despite what others want from them; all while messaging online without even knowing it.
The sequel to the award winning Marvel film starring the people of Wakanda brings a new layer of representation to the screen.
Pixar’s new film features Meilin Lee, a 13-year old from Toronto who faces the pressure to be perfect for her mom, but also be her authentic self; all while unexpectedly turning into a giant res panda.
From technology billionaires to pop star influencers, Adam McKay’s film brings a stellar look into the urgency of focusing our attention in the right problems.
Spielberg’s fresh take on the 1957 Broadway Musical makes big changes, especially in the way Puerto Rican characters are casted and portrayed.
From Ugly Betty and Real Women Have Curves to Superstore and Gentefied, Ferrera has led a fierce change-making career.
“Storytelling and media have a massive importance because they give audiences an opportunity to see the world through someone else’s eyes.”
— Daniela M. - Founder of Meaningful Media
Despite what many experts claim, the food safety system in the United States is far from safe. This Netflix documentary highlights the truth behind many companies who fail to conduct proper inspections on the foods they export; leading to bacteria and diseases being released to the consumer which can sometimes pose a life-threatening risk.
This multi-episode documentary series showcases a handful of tennis players as they navigate various tournaments and physical and mental challenges as they all dream of becoming number one.
For the Kowalski family, they faced unimaginable trauma and heartbreak after both parents were wrongly accused of abusing their daughter Maya who suffered from CRPS. After the accusation, Maya was held by state custody and taken from her parents for several months.
This Netflix documentary strikingly reflects how social media controls our lives and is shaping the world we live in and will face in the future. It highlights the effects it has on our brains, relationships, and how it’s become a key component to societal obstacles.
In this raw and heartbreaking film, viewers witness the pain and struggle healtcare workers and patients faced during New York’s first COVID-19 wave.
Starting in Chicago, to the lawn of the White House, America’s first African-American first lady has lived a remarkable life thus far.
Visit Our Watch List:
Click below to find lists on various topics on recommended visual media to consume that educates, inspires, and raises awareness.
There’s no denying the relevance of environmental issues today, and these films not only showcase the urgency, but ways to help.
From famous art pieces, cultures, traditions, food, and more, these films and media pieces showcase the richness of the arts and culture.
Regardless of political viewpoints, there’s always something new to uncover on how the government is run, and the people that run it.
A lot of the time, the most powerful answers to the most pressing questions today are found in the past.
Despite many improvements in today’s society, inequality and discrimination still exists, sometimes in places we don’t expect.
International films often give audiences a new perspective and allow them to step into a new world.
These films show the importance of engaging in relevant problems society faces today, and ways we can make change for the better.
Some of the most powerful and influential people in history often share the best life lessons.
Schools across the world face incredibly difficult challenges, affecting current and future generations.
This heartfelt and hilarious comedy series is both entertaining and educational in terms of the public school systems in the United States.
Both a comedy and coming of age TV show, “Never Have I Ever” focuses on the story of Devi Vishwakumar, a young Indian-American high schooler having to deal with obstacles spanning from getting into Princeton to dreaming of dating her high school’s most popular guy, Paxton Hall-Yoshida.
This beautiful and vibrant first episode establishes a promising future for an all Latinx cast show to dominate Hollywood.
From maternity leave to immigration, this lighthearted comedy managed to incorporate relevant modern-day issues retail workers face.
A lively story about what happens in the afterlife, The Good Place explores these topics in an extremely creative and unique way.
This series of mini films tells the story of multiple women around the world using their gifts and talents to make a difference.
This multi episode series from Netflix highlights the unique and culturally rich dishes from various countries in Latin America, making every audience member’s mouth water.