Western Oregon Journal

Issue date: 5/27/09 Section: News

What do "SiCKO," "China Blue" and "Milk" have in common? They are all movies played as part of the Critical Film Series at Western.
The Critical Film Series was created to "raise critical consciousness of world issues," said Sociology Professor Dean Braa. "Students don't get enough critical analysis."
Every week since April 1, movies have been playing in ITC 211 at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays for any students or faculty that would like to attend. Attendance is typically 40 to 45 viewers.
Mckenzie Mcnelly watched some of the film "A Place Called Chiapas" and said, "I think it's pretty rad that we have the opportunity to see these films."
Students interested in sociology can also schedule a course by arrangement with Braa, which includes seeing the films and writing a review on each one for class credit.
"Other students are recommended (to attend) by faculty," Braa said. "People come to movies they are interested in. I wish more business majors and conservatives would come."
Business major Jared Suing, who watched the film "11th Hour," said, "I thought it definitely put forward the case to alter our lifestyles. I don't think the way the documentary put (advertising) in perspective is accurate. Advertising can be used to promote green energy."
Freshman Jennifer Borchers, who also saw "11th Hour," said, "I thought the film was really eye-opening," she said. "I thought of the film as almost inspirational, and it really got the message out that this generation needs to stop being lazy and actually care about the environment."
Braa said this year was the third or the fourth time the Critical Film Series has occurred, although Western also puts on the Civil Rights Film Series.The Critical Series films are chosen according to political, economical and environmental influences along with an interest in entertainment.
The last opportunity for students to attend a film will be the two-part film, "Che." Part one will be shown on May 27 and part two on June 3.
Braa said he hopes students become more politically involved as a result of the film series: "If you don't believe you can change the world, you won't."

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