overall response to miss representation// blog 13

I was very satisfied with the intentions of Miss Representation. However, there was a very large issue within it- the film barely discussed the roadblocks that women of color and trans women face on top of being a woman. The film talked about women of color a considerable amount, and did touch on the issues they face on top of being a woman, but this was mentioned once or twice. Trans women were completely excluded from this film, and they count as well. The film was made in 2011, and trans folks did not have as much recognitions as they do. now, but that does not excuse the lack of representation. I also believe that the film did not talk enough about how women tear down other women as well. A lot of blame was put on the media and men, and while some men and much of the media are responsible, women do force expectations on eachother and tear each other down just as equally. Most of the comments I have gotten, my mom has gotten, and my grandmothers have gotten are from other women who want them to follow traditional roles and "not show too much skin." I completely understand that this could be different for other families, but this is a pattern that was briefly mentioned in the film and needed to be addressed more. I am grateful that this film was made- but that is mostly because I can relate to it as a cisgender white girl.

Separate from the criticism, I am very glad that someone was willing to tackle the subject of women in the media. The point about women in politics and in the news resonated with me- I agree with everything said. I think there is a long way to go, and I agree with the solutions presented. I am more so impressed with the journey that the director has got through and how she took her past and used it to better the life of her daughter and to make a film empowering girls. It very well explained how the ideal image of a girl has impacted each girl's life. All of these influences damage us each time we take it in, and they talked about the disorders and effects that are a result of it. Overall, it was a decent film with good intentions.