The Subject on the Screen: A Philosophical Investigation of the Ontology of Film

Introduction

In his book "The Subject on the Screen: A Philosophical Investigation of the Ontology of Film," Arlindo Machado offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of the nature of film as a medium. Drawing on insights from philosophy, aesthetics, and film theory, Machado argues that film is not simply a passive reflection of reality, but rather an active force that shapes our understanding of the world.

The Ontology of Film

Machado begins by examining the ontological status of film, arguing that it is neither a mere representation of reality nor a purely subjective experience. Instead, he proposes that film is a hybrid entity that exists somewhere in between these two extremes. He draws on the work of philosophers such as Martin Heidegger and Maurice Merleau-Ponty to develop a theory of film as a "poietic" medium, one that actively creates and shapes the world it presents.

The Spectator and the Screen

Machado then turns his attention to the role of the spectator in the cinematic experience. He argues that the spectator is not a passive observer, but rather an active participant in the construction of meaning. He draws on the work of film theorists such as Christian Metz and Jean-Louis Baudry to develop a theory of spectatorship as a process of identification and projection.

The Politics of Film

In the final section of the book, Machado explores the political implications of his theory of film. He argues that film is not a neutral medium, but rather a powerful tool that can be used to shape public opinion and promote social change. He draws on the work of thinkers such as Walter Benjamin and Theodor Adorno to develop a theory of film as a form of cultural critique.

Conclusion

"The Subject on the Screen" is a challenging and rewarding book that offers a new way of thinking about the nature of film. Machado's insights will be of interest to scholars and students of film theory, philosophy, and aesthetics, as well as to anyone interested in the power of film to shape our understanding of the world.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in film, philosophy, or aesthetics, then "The Subject on the Screen" is a must-read. Machado's unique and thought-provoking insights will challenge your assumptions about the nature of film and open up new possibilities for understanding this powerful medium.

Here are a few reasons why you should read this book:

• Machado offers a new way of thinking about the nature of film, drawing on insights from philosophy, aesthetics, and film theory.
• He argues that film is not simply a passive reflection of reality, but rather an active force that shapes our understanding of the world.
• He explores the role of the spectator in the cinematic experience, arguing that the spectator is not a passive observer, but rather an active participant in the construction of meaning.
• He examines the political implications of his theory of film, arguing that film is not a neutral medium, but rather a powerful tool that can be used to shape public opinion and promote social change.

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding book that will change the way you think about film, then "The Subject on the Screen" is the book for you.