Theories Describing My Film

   There are different theories that describe different media, including film. In my film, Perfectly Imperfect, there are a few media theories that I see fit.

 Representation Theory would be the main theory in media I believe could best describe my film, Perfectly Imperfect, because it portrays the main character Natalia, who is considered as your 'typical' teenage girl. She is consistently making mistakes, failing school, avoiding her chores, and disappointing those around her. On this specific day during my film opening, she forgets about her best friend's birthday party. Natalia doesn't just represent the 'lazy teen' stereotype, but she also depicts the common occurrence in many young kids with being irresponsible, late, and imperfect (as the title implies). The film is meant to be relatable to the audience in which struggles with similar issues. The film also dives into the truth behind why she is the way she is, with the later reveal of her shocking past. Natalia, who has an absent father and mother, had been used to irresponsibility and inconsistencies displayed by her parents growing up. Because of these internal issues, she has built up a lack of focus and poor habits. Throughout the film, she takes steps to better herself and fix her mistakes over time. She does not immediately become a perfect person of course, but the film shows her gradual improvement within herself. 

    My film may also describe Active Audience Theory, as nearly every person has had an experience where they were late or being careless. Many would be able to analyze Natalia's actions and take their own personal experiences to attempt to depict why she acts the way she does. She is easily distracted by her surroundings and doesn't recognize her faults until its too late. The audience could feel either empathetic for or angry towards her depending on their own self reflection and what they expect from her.

    Another theory, Cultivation Theory, proposed by George Gerbner, can also be represented in my film. Mainstream media content proves teens to be irresponsible, sluggish, and disappointing at times. My film may reinforce this idea because of Natalia's challenges in the beginning of the film, or it may reverse this image by revealing the deeper reason behind her actions. Viewers with the belief that most teens are just lazy because they lack discipline or don't have responsibilities may be confirmed with this film. However, others may have this ideal reversed by the end of the film after getting a better perspective of Natalia's mindset.