In Walter Benjamin’s The Work Of Art in the Age of Its Techonological Reproducibility, he listed out the advantages and disadvantages of technological reproduction of artworks. For the pros, by technological reproduction, artworks can be reproduced and modified in a larger quantity and manner, as well as a longer period of preservation (Protected by wax or acrylics to prevent fading), fulfilling the increasing demand of art appreciation in the market. On the contrary, high interpretation of technology in the artfield hinders the aura of the artworks. Aura is some specific qualities of an artwork that cannot be communicated through technological and mechanical reproductions. For example the historical values it carries, the sites of exhibition or the forms of art expression (Sculpture, Paintings etc). Aura of an artwork can only be shown at particular space and time that makes the artwork unique. For instance, Egyptian hieroglyphs are regarded as precious art pieces and wisdoms due to its discovery beyond ancient tombs as well as the time of creation (Ancient Egypt). The feelings and level of appreciation facing an authentic Egyptian hieroglyphs carved on walls in ancient pharoah tombs differs strongly with the reproduced hieroglyphs shown in museums.
In my point of view, film making, the process, is a form of artwork reproduction using cutting edge cinematic technologies without damaging the aura of the artwork created- the film produced. By using camera lens and technologies, artistic actions are captured and later finalizes into a film. The use of mechanical tools such as cameras and technologies are forms of reproduction. However, cinematographers can choose and design the shots they want to show to the audiences; screenwriters can design the plot and climax points themselves; actors can choose how to perform the written screens. They can create the “space” and “time” according to their will. One example is montage effects in films. Since everything is possible to be created and shown on the screen, films are said to be consisted of auras . Therefore, it is amazing that film industries are able to merge both artwork reproduction as well as production together.
-3036075130 Zhu Runze
You have balanced the proportion of your writing well, responding to Benjamin’s writing while explaining your own point of view of how the process of filmmaking is the artwork itself. Yet, I am uncertain how the ‘montage’ you mentioned can be manifested as a artwork? More elaboration on that would help readers understand your take better.