SIR Social Sciences Investigation Abstract
THE CAMERA NEVER LIES: THE PORTRAYAL OF TRUTH IN REALITY CINEMA
Presenter:
Patricia Ruiz, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506
Advisor:
Ms. Audrey Wells, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506
Abstract:
Viewers watch popular reality television shows, and some accept the shows as reality, but others question their validity. With a series of short experimental documentaries and reality videos, this project explores the use of creative editing, natural soundtracks, superimposed music, narration, and other elements that affect the presentation of reality. Several similarly filmed reality shorts were edited using different combinations of these elements to demonstrate how their use can ultimately enhance or corrupt the context of the original video. Although it is possible to use creative editing and other post-production tools to emphasize reality, the ease with which the context of a video can be changed should discourage viewers to believe everything they see on television.