Technological and ethical aspects of anthropological film

Abstract

This thesis demonstrates how factors of technological innovation in filmmaking and anthropological ethical considerations will have an influence over how a particular film will be theorized, created and distributed. The definitions of ethnographic and anthropological film are examined as well as the methods of presenting anthropological information in a film. Technological advances and how they apply to filming, editing and distribution possibilities are also described. The process of creating my own anthropological films about the Asmat and Korowai developed my thesis argument that technology and ethical sensitivities will have a developmental aspect in creating an anthropological film not only in the shooting of footage but the editing of that footage for audience viewing. The proposed goal of the film will also define what will be filmed and how the filmmaker will adapt to the challenges of the field and the construction of the culture.