In Leaving the Movie Theater, Roland Barthes briefly discussed how elements such as darkness and sound functioned as “prerequisites for hypnosis.” Cinema is a matter of what is in the frame and what is out (Martin Scorsese). The fantasy created by a movie, a “reel world,” can be a perfect choice for the audience to escape from the real world or an elaborately crafted mirror to reflect reality.
Because of my strong empathy ability, I could always integrate into any character in any movie, regardless of gender, identity, or even species. After watching A Dog’s Purpose, I still remember the enormous, long-lasting touching. It took me weeks to stop thinking about the plot before falling asleep and to really “leave the movie theatre.” This is the irresistible charm of movies- its “lure.” Therefore, I can understand the metaphor of “two bodies” Roland Barthes introduced. To really appreciate a film, we need to have a “narcissistic body” that enjoys being lost in their virtual, electric souls; simultaneously, we need a “perverse” body as a copy of our true self situated outside the screen, serving for our return to reality.
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You are able to summarize Barthes’s point of view and the critical concepts he introduced in a precise manner. Appreciate how you have intertwined your experience when expressing agreement towards Barthes’ words. Nice work!