Page 20 - The Staunch Test

THE STAUNCH TEST

Choosing to write, commission and invest in derivative, mediocre films and TV
shows rather than in daring, original and mould-breaking projects affects
writers, directors, producers, actors and audiences. This is mainly money driven
— doing what’s worked before. Yet who among us hasn’t been blown away by
seeing (or reading) something so startlingly new that it made us sit up and see

the world differently for a while. Made us recognise the true art of storytelling,
and appreciate it with a fresh eye?

The fact that constantly repeated ideas and imagery with no greater agenda
than viewing figures and a healthy return on investment can influence how we
see the world should come as no surprise. But why should women pay the price?

5. Male characters are subjected to violence, what’s the difference?

There’s a big difference! When male characters are on the giving or receiving
end of violence in films or TV dramas, it is almost always because they’re doing

something or are involved in some dangerous activity. They might be
committing or solving crimes, protecting someone or something valuable,
fighting in a war, being a super-hero, investigating scandals, righting wrongs,
being the charismatic bad guy, exploring the world or outer space, beating off
rivals, saving the planet, or, winning, saving or avenging a beautiful woman. In
the face of violence, they tend to be shown as acting bravely, fearlessly, even

heroically.

Tough guys in movies have something at stake other than being male