Creative critical reflection question #1

How does product use or challenge convention and represent groups/issues?

Our film, Silent Exit, obeys conventions of the psychological drama genre while also subverting them and representing the pressing issue of men's mental health.

Use of Conventions:

We employed several conventions of the psychological drama genre, including focus on a lone central figure, ominous visual settings, and action extending inward and re
lating to emotional and mental struggles. Use of minimal lights, bleak color treatment, and use of an aurally bold soundtrack with nothing contributes towards achieving the sad and calm mood of contemplation effectively. Musa, being our main character, embodies struggle against depression, a common convention of themes in many psychological drama stories.

Violations of Conventions:

By adhering to these conventions, we also undermined them by bringing in a fictional, enigmatic character, Darren, who is both a guide and a voice of Musa's inner self. Darren is an unconventional character, as his presence blurs the line between reality and fantasy, adding layers of ambiguity to the narrative.

Representation of Groups and Issues:

Our film is going to shed light on the oft-overlooked struggles of men with mental illness. By following Musa's path of despair and redemption, we highlight the stigma of men's mental illness. The narrative highlights the importance of seeking help and compassion, particularly in a world where men are encouraged to keep their emotions in check.

We subvert the societal norms that render men invulnerable through the role of Musa, and we project a message of hopefulness and resilience. Darren's character also reinforces the notion by playing the role of the power of inner speech and introspection in waging battles against oneself.

In conclusion, Silent Exit enacts and redefines conventions to create an evocative narrative that reflects the struggles of men with mental illness, instilling empathy and awareness in its viewers.