Writing with Fire by Darlene Machell

The film is powered by the subjects rather than the filmmakers.

2023-07-10 11:25:23 UTC

This film felt unique in that you could feel that the film was being driven by the subjects rather than the filmmakers - it didn't feel like a typical documentary that is structured around the filmmaker asking questions and the subjects providing answers. Rather, it felt like a first-hand window into the lives of the women reporters of Khabar Lahariya. Because of this, as an audience member, I was able to feel much closer to the subjects of the film and their lives. This approach is particularly powerful when it comes to gender issues, as it gives a direct, unobstructed voice to those who are marginalised in society. (Pav)

Some overlap in societal expectations concerning marriage.

2023-07-10 11:33:12 UTC

I do feel that in Singapore, there is also a strong expectation for women to get married. This expectation is largely perpetuated by state policies, which serve to put forth the ideal of a heteronormative nuclear family in order to address birth rates. Although the age by which a woman is expected to get married has been shifting over the years, there is still a general perception that a woman should ideally be married before the age of 30. Age hypergamy and educational hypergamy still persist, where traditional beliefs that men should marry women who are younger and less educated leave many older, educated women out of the 'marriage market'. These mirror some of the societal expectations that women in India face, such as Suneeta feeling pressured by her parents to leave her career and get married before she is considered ineligible or undesirable. (Pav)

Displayed the devasting consequences

2023-07-10 15:45:30 UTC

The film followed the stories of the Khabar Lahariya journalists who reported on the stories of women being raped / murdered, with no repercussions for the accused. These incidents were rampant across India, yet no definitive action was being taken by the government or the police.

The film granted access into the lives of the raped and murdered, and showcased the emotional turmoil and heartbreak that their families were going through. This allowed the audience to feel this anger, pain and anguish, and hence evoke a stronger sense of injustice felt by the audience. (Yi Qiang)

Beyond the articles of presses or news, the film depicts the reality as it is

2023-07-10 15:46:06 UTC

The gender issues in India is mainly revealed by articles or news of Indian or Foreign presses. However because of media control or suppression, lack of information and inaccessibility to far away villages where severe gender issues occur, it is difficult to view the raw information and realities related to gender issues. However, as the camera of the film follows the female journalists through the process of reporting isolated villages, we could also confront the specific crime cases which women are victims and vividly feel the seriousness of the women status of India.

The women are in control

2023-07-10 15:52:41 UTC

I think a strength of the film is that it was mostly the female journalists of Khabar Lahariya guiding us through the film rather than some interviewer asking questions. It felt that the documentary makers went where the journalists went and showed us what the journalists wanted to tell us rather than a narrative that the documentary makers wanted to portray. I like how the film is kind of a 'behind the scenes' of the important and impactful work these women do, from which we would usually only see the results (the finished youtube video or the finished newspaper). This documentary really shows the hardships these women go through because of their gender, societal norms and expectations and caste discrimination, which makes me appreciate their journalism and news articles even more.

Good for painting a picture

2023-07-10 15:54:22 UTC

Film allows the audience to visualize what is happening, and in that way tap onto their emotions in order to make the film more effective in conveying the filmmaker's intent.

As seen in Writing with Fire, women were considered inferior, and more often than not the victim in incidents involving rape and murder. Film allows such graphic and outrageous incidents to be captured, and in turn allows the audience to feel intense emotions that aids in highlighting gender issues. (Yi Qiang)

Minimal

2023-07-10 16:00:13 UTC

The situation of the Indian women portrayed in the film showed that they were constantly subjected to discrimination and abuse, with the latter including rape and murder. Despite the abuse faced, the accused in such incidents were rarely ever reprimanded, and justice was rarely served.

I believe that these intense portrayals do not really resonate with women in Singapore as we have a decent police force and the country has progressed to reduce discrimination. Hence it is quite hard to draw a parallel to the portrayal of women in Singapore, or maybe I could be greatly mistaken... (Yi Qiang)

In some ways, yes.

2023-07-10 16:08:22 UTC

In the aspect of traditional women's marriage and fixed role, S Korea's conventional practices have changed a lot. Women's marriage is not an obligation and they can build their own career by selecting the jobs they want. Also, inside the family, women's role is not limited to household chores. Double income couples have increased and normally, especially in the younger generations, both men and women work and take care of their children.
However, in the aspect of sexual crimes like digital sex crime, rape, sexual assault and stalking, S Korea needs a lot of improvement. In spite of crimes targeting the women are continuously increasing, law enforcement or revise is not putted into action. As Indian women were under threats of crimes, S Korean women are also under the vulnerability of severe sexual offenses.

Unfortunately, yes.

2023-07-10 16:09:42 UTC

As I have mentioned before, I live in the Netherlands, but my family is from the Hindustani community in Surinam. This community consists of Indian people who migrated to Surinam a couple generations ago, to perform cheap labor with a promise of a better future. When I compare the situation of the Indian women with women in the Netherlands, it is vastly different. Obviously, even in western countries, gender norms exist and society still has certain expectations for women (for example expecting them to get married, have children, do most of the houswork AND to financially contribute just as much as their male partners), however in western countries such as the Netherlands, these expectations are not as harsh, and women have more authority and independence to make their own choices. However, in the Hindustani community, where my family and most of my friends are from, the situation for women is pretty similar to that of the Indian women. I would say, though, that in my community it is more accepted and often even encouraged for women to have a job outside of the house, even after marriage. However, they are still expected/obligated to get married, have children and raise them, be chaste, dress modestly, not go out late at night (without a male guardian), cook, clean, do the housework and most importantly obey their family and not bring any shame to them. I really resonated with the movie and also got very angry, because I have seen so many of my female family members and friends and even myself being treated like this by men and unfortunately other women who agree with them. During the movie I felt a sense of tiredness, because of how awfully the women were continued to be treated and I felt hopeless because the same still happens a lot in my community. However, I felt hope in the end when the journalists told how much impact they made and that if awareness is brought to these topics, change can indeed take place.

✨ Authenticity ✨

2023-07-10 16:17:06 UTC

[Faith]

The strength of this film lies in the AUTHENTICITY of everything - from the aesthetics of the shots to the conversations.

The filmmakers did an excellent job fleshing out the struggles faced by the Dalit women, enabling them to reveal deep insights into how various socio-political issues (e.g., India's caste discrimination, patriarchy, nation-building, clashes between religion & politics) specifically affected women.

I also realised some of the shots were done deliberately to portray the marginalisation of Dalit women. One such example is the use of high-angle shots in the illegal mining scene to portray the miners as insignificant and weak; while the use of low-angle shots during the festival was used to portray the high-caste as powerful and almost like looking down on you. Besides, there were many eye-level and close-up shots that allowed me to emotionally identify with the struggles faced by these women. Overall, these shots invite the audience to confront and reevaluate long-standing gender issues, making the film a powerful catalyst for change in India.

To let people feel the pain.

2023-07-10 16:28:36 UTC

I think film is a good space to highlight gender issues, because it is a more effective medium than for example talking or writing. I talk a lot about gender issues within my community with other members of my community but with just talking people often seem to not care or fail to experience empathy, because for them the issues discussed seem far away and not real (for example sexual assault, forced marriages etc.). However, when watching a film or documentary they can more easily sympathize and understand the problems because then they can actually see and feel the harm caused by certain gender issues. For example, I experience that men sometimes can be kind of insensitive when sexual assault is discussed, because it is not something that they generally have to fear (obviously there are also male victims of sexual assault, which are extremely valid and which I do not want to downplay here, it is just that 'luckily' men are less likely to experience it). And in such a case I think it could really help for them to see a documentary like this and feel the pain of the victims and their family to empathize and understand how it is a (systematic problem). (And yes, I do realize that it is inherently awful that some people actually have to see sexual assault victims suffer to understand that it is not okay and we collectively should fight against it, however I would rather have them understand it after watching a film than not understanding it at all).

Singaporean women are free

2023-07-10 16:37:26 UTC

[Faith]
Watching the portrayal of issues such as rape, lack of freedom, and powerlessness against authorities in the film made me deeply appreciate the safety and security that women experience in Singapore. Unlike the threatening environment depicted in the film for female journalists, women in Singapore enjoy the freedom to practice journalism without fear or intimidation.

In India, societal expectations dictate that women must marry within their caste, disregarding their personal preferences. However, in Singapore, women are free to choose their partners based on their own criteria, independent of socio-economic status. Furthermore, remaining single is not stigmatized in Singapore, as it may be in India, where society often questions a woman's family integrity if she chooses to remain unmarried. Although parents may still express their desire for marriage and children, the younger generation in Singapore generally faces minimal objections from society regarding their decision to stay single.

There is a scene in the film where the statement is made, "When there is a man at home, how can the wife work?" In Singapore, both men and women can pursue their careers without societal restrictions. It is highly unlikely for a male partner to coerce a female partner into quitting her job, and instances of domestic violence arising from such issues are comparatively rare.

The stark contrast between the challenges faced by women in the film and the freedoms enjoyed by women in Singapore highlights the significance of creating an environment where women feel safe, empowered, and respected. Singapore's progressive stance on gender equality and individual freedom serves as a testament to the importance of fostering a society that values and supports women's rights and aspirations.

Film is a good space to highlight gender issues but we have to be critical!

2023-07-10 16:55:35 UTC

[Faith]
Films like Writing With Fire provide invaluable spaces for shedding light on gender issues. They offer a unique medium through which the imagination, intellect, and tenacity of female journalists in India can be explored, as no other medium allows for such comprehensive storytelling. By empowering marginalized Dalit women to reclaim their place in society through journalism, Writing With Fire not only amplifies their voices but also provides an avenue for them to delve into their identities, aspirations, and hopes, unburdened by societal norms and restrictions. Additionally, the film serves as a less politically charged tool for exposing the political corruption and systemic issues ingrained within the caste system in India.

However, it is essential to acknowledge that films have their limitations and can sometimes oversimplify the complexity of the issues they aim to address. Khabar Lahariya, for instance, has expressed dissatisfaction with the way their work was represented in the film, asserting that their story is "a much more complex story than the one going to the Oscars." They have emphasized the need to further discuss and explore the intricate factors that enable women-led, independent rural media, which is a far more multifaceted narrative than what was showcased in the film. This highlights the potential for films to present a distorted perspective and a skewed understanding of the underlying complexities of gender issues.

While films undoubtedly provide a valuable space for highlighting gender issues, it is crucial to approach them with a critical lens, recognizing their inherent limitations in fully capturing the nuanced realities of these problems.

Good space-> Vividly show the problems of gender issue/ Bad space-> The film can be biased on only one side. (Problem of generalizing one gender)

2023-07-10 17:51:27 UTC

The film can be a good space to vividly show the problems of gender issues. In a society where gender issues are regarded as natural, it is difficult to recognize whether it is a problem or not. Also, the film can analyze and clarify the cause of the gender issue as it has complex causes and ambiguity as a social phenomena. This could be achieved by interviewing the victims of gender conflict, reenacting the prominent cases of sexual crime, or analyzing through explicit figures.
However the film can be a bad space as it can be biased on only one side. This could lead to generalizing the feature of one gender and lead to reversed discrimination or prejudice. Also, beyond drawing the society's attention about gender issues, it can also promote gender conflict.

A Journey of Progress

2023-07-11 01:36:10 UTC

It was impossible not to be invested in the strong women the film focuses on. This is because the film follows something like a character arc - a journey of growth for each.

I particularly appreciated how the film was not afraid to tackle struggle; and it was interesting how each women talked about their hardships so matter of factly. It was such a display of strength in my opinion: an acceptance of their situation and them taking power over it vs a cry for help.

As the film goes on, each woman hones in on a specific hardship in their personal/career life and by the end of the film, growth in this aspect is displayed. My favorite part is when Shyamlaki grows to become such a fearless reporter. We see her from this shy and confused reporter to one that is pushing her way to the front, camera confidently in hand. It was seeing each woman progress in their own ways that kept me connected to the story all throughout the film. In doing so, gender issues were tackled in a realistic and authentic way that is easy to understand and relate to. (Reneé Tan)

2023-07-11 01:44:38 UTC

The situation of the indian woman portrayed in the film would serve as a reminder to the women in singapore to always fight for our rights to one day end the gender discrimination in singapore. Our situation in singapore is different from that of the indian woman with a huge caste system and the people in power being corrupted leading to their voices being drowned out and even subdued. Singapore with its democracy allows women with more power to be heard, to vote. However, gender discrimination is still an issue in singapore as can be seen in the wage gap between genders in singapore. In singapore the key driver of gender differences in labour market forces is the occupational differences and its role has grown over time. Measures need to be taken into place to help curb these drivers of gender differences to one day level out the playing field for both man and women equally. (vera)

2023-07-11 01:45:13 UTC

A film is a good space to highlight gender issue as it is able to get the message out to larger audience in a more effective way as compared to just words in a paper. As the saying goes a picture speaks a thousand words, a film would allow audience to first hand see the effects of gender issues, to put themselves in the shoes of the people in the film and to empathise with them. This when done right could serve to increase the outreach of the gender issue.

However, film may also be a bad space to highlight gender issue as it may serve to undermine the issue. To make an issue that is serious more easily accepted by people and understood, filmmakers sometimes engage in humour and comedy. However, ultimately the effect of the film depends on the interpretation of the audience member to the message that is being portrayed.

(vera)

2023-07-11 01:51:44 UTC

I think the strength of the film lies in its storytelling. The many stories as told in the documentary really hits home on the helplessness of the woman and the people in the lowest caste- dalit. This also shows how when the agencies which is suppose to serve the people becomes corrupt and work for the money- the people lives become the one at stake. The gender issue in india is one that is most severe and has devastating effects as can be seen first hand in their fear. It presents the gender issue in india in a straight forward way and does not serve to sugarcoat the issue at all.
(vera)

Moments in Between

2023-07-11 02:05:58 UTC

Because the film shows real moments in between the story, you can clearly identify that gender issues are a prevalent problem in India. While they do show instances where there is an explicit issue with the way women are treated in their investigations (rape cases, death of female journalist, etc.), their own experiences were highlighted as they were doing their jobs. From their own husbands commentary on how the journalists worked too much, the way the interviewees treated them, etc., these women were fighting against gender norms, societal expectations, and even personal issues to do their work and live as they saw fit. I think through these very personal, unscripted moments, the film was able to express the many issues women in India face in their day-to-day. (Victoria Samotis)

Yes!!

2023-07-11 02:12:09 UTC

Definitely, yes. This film actually reminded me of Maria Ressa. She is the co-founder and CEO of Rappler - a Filipino news publication company that aims to deliver truth through online means. Maria Ressa is a nobel prize winner and has received relentless backlash from the Philippine government for bringing to light sensitive issues that the government would rather keep under wraps.

On a more personal note, as a young girl growing up in the Philippines I was brought up with extreme precaution and care of myself and my body. I was never allowed to walk along the streets alone, most especially at night - in fear of all the news we hear of girls getting kidnapped etc. My parents would traditionally always tell me to never dress in a manner that shows too much skin because it is not safe enough to just trust in other people. This is so different from the safety and security I feel walking around here in Singapore and going on public transport by myself. Hopefully one day I or the next generation can feel the same sense of security at home as well. (Reneé Tan)

Feels like you are there with them

2023-07-11 02:26:12 UTC

I think this film did a good job in being genuine and realistic. We go through Meera, Shyamkali, and Suneeta's mundane, daily lives and experience the struggles that they face together with them. Through the interactions they have with their community, we are able to empathize with their hardships. What I like the most is that the film does not feel like it is glamorising or dramatising their challenges, neither does it dilute them. It is just a genuine and vulnerable representation of the gender issues that women face in India (xinyi)

In Different Ways

2023-07-11 02:27:04 UTC

I think the issues these women face, from domestic violence, rape, being condescended in the workplace, etc., would resonate with a lot of American women. One thing that especially stuck out to me was that women were not being believed in rape cases and no further legal actions were being taken until the journalists exposed the cases. Unfortunately, very similar things happen in the US with sexual assault cases. Additionally, while there is not an explicit caste system in the US, categories such as race/ethnicity, social class, and gender/sexuality work as an unspoken social system. Women living in America with intersecting identities are disproportionally affected by these issues, and they might especially empathize with the Dalit women. However, I think women in the US do have more powers to speak out against these issues, though it is not always easy. For example, movements such as the MeToo movement and protests against the overturning of Roe v. Wade and its consequential rulings in state courts are incredibly prevalent in the US, and are seen as having political, social, and legal influences. From the film, it seems Indian women are still fighting for these spaces. Also, there is not an intense societal pressure for women to remain domestic in the US, and they have more freedoms in being able to pursue a career. (Victoria)

Lens into others' lives

2023-07-11 02:31:24 UTC

Personally, I think film is an amazing space to be able to convey different gender issues. No matter how much we communicate our feelings, it still is quite hard to really understand what the other gender experiences. I believe that film is able to give us a glimpse by presenting scenes that mirror a specific gender perspective. In this way, the audience is able to gain a better understanding because they are able to imagine better through putting themselves in the shoes of the character. I think just talking about our differences is not always adequate enough to gain a better view of how the other is feeling, and thus film acts as a platform to creatively inflict emotions that we otherwise wouldn't feel.

On another note however, it is important to still remember that film is not all encompassing. While it is such a great way to convey perspective and emotion, it still isn't enough to fully understand respective gender struggles. It is also important to be careful in construing opinions because at times, films can exaggerate or even under exaggerate situations for creative reasons. Furthermore, these issues could be expressed in a comedic matter which may downplay the severity of an issue.

With this in mind, I believe that film is a great space to highlight gender issues. However, it should not be taken to literally and should be supplemented with other information - conversations with people, personal experience, research, etc. (Reneé Tan)

Yes and No

2023-07-11 02:34:57 UTC

We are lucky that in Singapore, it is generally safer for women than those in other countries like India where women are subjected to abuse. The caste system in India exacerbates the issue by widening the gap and creates more driving force for discrimination.

Though, I do resonate with the women in the film in some way. The industry that I want to work in is very heavily dominated by men. When I observed how my instructor (a lady) worked with them, they would often make fun of her (higher) pitch voice behind her back, or call her "little girl". Although it is not as severe as what Indian women experience, I think that women in Singapore still have to fight even harder just to prove their value and competence. And even if they succeeded, they might be looked down upon by others in society. (xinyi)

Highly Accessible/Visible

2023-07-11 02:35:31 UTC

I think because film is highly accessible, both locally and globally, it can spread the message in a thought-provoking and emotional way. Using film to highlight gender issues is a modern medium that can have global outreach, especially if it is spread through social media. This can cause real impacts for the gender-issues it highlights. However, just like with any medium, it is good to be critical. Film can be manipulated to show only one side, have a certain (and sometimes insidious) angle, etc. Additionally, sometimes global influence can create more harm than good if there is a lack of cultural awareness or understanding when trying to solve issues. If the film becomes globalized, this is a risk the filmmaker should consider as it invites "outsiders" to view these issues, perhaps without the proper cultural understanding/context. (Victoria)

Sparks conversation but might generalise issues

2023-07-11 02:41:17 UTC

Film is a good space because films have the ability to evoke emotions and create empathy. By portraying the lived experiences of individuals, films can bring out strong emotional responses and make the audience more invested in the issue. This emotional connection can spark conversations, raising awareness and inspiring action.

However, films run into the risk of perpetuating stereotypes or generalising complex issues (such as gender). For example, films might reinforce existing gender biases, objectify women, or fail to represent the diversity of experiences/the full gender spectrum. Films might also dramatise or exoticise gender issues, making the film and outcome ineffective. (xinyi)

Showing the problem accurately

jinsolkim2022 — 2023-07-11 03:20:48 UTC

By showing the lives of Indian women as they are, it enables viewers to grasp the problem accurately. The way journalist women in India run their channels and confront the difficulties they face as women allows us to be realistic and think deeply about the gender issue in India.

Yes

jinsolkim2022 — 2023-07-11 03:25:29 UTC

Yes, discrimination against women shown in movies (especially restrictions on women's education and career choices) was a phenomenon in Korea. Therefore, Korean women will sympathize with it and feel solidarity with Indian women. Even if the form and degree of discrimination are different, the discrimination women face is essentially the same, so we can watch this movie and sympathize with the situation of Indian women.

Realistic means of expression

jinsolkim2022 — 2023-07-11 03:27:01 UTC

I think movies are the most realistic means of expression that can feel the positions of the characters in them. Therefore, I think that expressing gender issues in movies is a means of empathy for women and a means of better understanding of women's situations for men.

Switching roles

2023-07-11 03:51:37 UTC

The strength of this film will be illustrate the switch of roles between men and women (particularly how the society perceive them to be). Men are usually perceived to be like a superhero kind trying to save the world, so it should be men who are exposing the wrong doings. But in fact women take up the courage and responsibility to confront the wrong doers. Men, in this film, are surprisingly staying at home with some not working. The switch of gender roles and perception on them illustrates the fact there should be less gender bias towards what men and women should do. Moreover india being a society where women are usually disregarded further prove the point that the movie in fact tried to show the what women can do and not what as of others think.

- xinyuan

Same same but different

2023-07-11 03:57:59 UTC

To begin with, in asia society especially, women are often perceived as someone whos weak and not able to make it big in the world. In the film the marriage issue was mentioned numerous times - similar to the situation in china whereas marriage > career. Most of my friends have been told to get married first, settle down and then pursue your own dreams and so on. Marriage is perceived as a happy index and somehow people (especially the older generation) thinks that you are only happy/ your life is fulfilled once you are married. Dreams and personal goals are insignificant compared to marriage and marriage comes first. Moreover, a women should focus on her family once she got married. This is very ridiculous from my point of view. I believe dreams and personal accomplishments weighs much more compared to getting married.

-xinyuan

illustration

2023-07-11 04:03:06 UTC

Film should try to avoid stereotyping gender in the society. This can be done through in depth discussion or conversation with the target group (women in this case) and understand from their point of view / perspective on certain issues. Making sure their needs are addressed and they are not how the society perceives them to be. Writing with fire in this case has fulfilled such requirements as they bring out the other side of women (they eagerness/heroine-ness). This side of women (especially in the india society) was not known to the world. Such publication was able to let the world know what their situation is and have a better understanding on gender issue

-xinyuan

Emphasizing the human side rather than the heroic side

2023-07-11 04:27:58 UTC

The strength of this film is that it evokes empathy in the sense that rather than portraying a person who solves a problem as a hero, she herself faces a similar problem and tries to overcome it. Other films often depict a heroic person trying to solve a problem that is not directly related to one's life. However, while the protagonists in this film try to publicize various problems in society (corruption, violence, inadequate public healthcare) through digital media, they themselves face similar problems.
Sunita wonders whether to pursue her dreams or compromise for the sake of her family due to the pressure to get married. Mira is faced with a situation where her husband doesn't want her to work and the landlord doesn't want to rent the house to Dalits. In this way, the intrinsic violence that the protagonists cover is also inherent in their lives, and it evokes more authenticity in the way they try to overcome it.
(Minji Lee)

It's changing, but still..yes

2023-07-11 04:37:47 UTC

A lot of things are changing in terms of perception and treatment, but there are still a lot of problems that are entrenched. This is not just a matter of policy or perception, but of the system. Many women in South Korea still experience career disruptions due to childbirth and childcare.
On the surface, there are some policies in place to protect them, but when they are actually used, they often fall behind in a competitive and fast-paced society. Nowadays, the birth rate is one of the major issues in South Korea. As an extension of this issue, gender equality is a major consideration.
(Minji Lee)

Proactively illuminating the problem

2023-07-11 04:49:42 UTC

I am impressed by the film's "proactivity" in terms of dealing with gender issues. Instead of simply listing the problematic situations, he looked at this problem through the medium of the profession of "journalist." Through the reporters of Kaaba Laharia, we can feel their will and liveliness. Also, because the media is aimed at ordinary citizens, it can engage the audience. Among corrupt journalists who exchange bribes, a revolution was seen in their efforts to distribute groundbreaking news through smartphones and YouTube channels. They used smartphones as a weapon against prejudice, oppression, and violence, and they proved their effectiveness by attracting the attention of many people. This can give the general public courage and determination.
(Minji Lee)

as a mirror and critique

xinroselin2020 — 2023-07-11 04:57:47 UTC

This film, being a documentary, serves well as a mirror of society, helping the audience take a third person perspective to consider their society.

Through the lens of these women and days in life of their work, it portrays and critiques “norms” and social constructs. eg. the husband/family’s response to the dalit women’s decision to work as a journalist; the cultural tendencies still, even though they seek out educated women in marriage, however desires not for the women to work after marriage.

At the same time it interrogates / critiques these social constructs, by portraying these “protagonists”, newsreporters/journalists in their resilience, eg. confronting a group of villagers and their contemptous comments about her coming as a interviewer), their bravery and courage (eg. doing the interviews even if it comes at a personal risk agains the mafias), their mission / purpose driven approach to work and their life (eg. responsibility of their work to bring social justice)

Empowerment

2023-07-11 05:05:44 UTC

The first thing that stood out was that the women were not professional journalism. Most of them learn on the job, using their cellphones as the main recording device rather than an professional recording equipment. The use of their phones is sort of a sense empowerment to me as it shows that anybody can be a journalist and play their part in reporting events and news that mainstream media would never cover.

Gender issues have been an ongoing issue in India built upon centuries of tradition, where it emphasizes a patriarchal society. As a nation where the political control and corporations are dominated by men, oppressed and minority voices especially from women are not heard or reported on mainstream media. The films offers an alternative view to gender issues in India, one that isnt easily found in mainstream media, it also goes to great length to show how difficult it is for these reporters to get their news, an indication of the lack of coverage on these issues that is prevalent in India (Shu Liang)

Struggle of the "grass roots"

2023-07-11 05:12:41 UTC

the documentary emphasizes the importance of women's voices and their role in shaping narratives and advocating for social change. It showcases the power of community journalism as a tool for empowerment, as these women journalists use their platform to expose corruption, injustice, and gender-based violence. I think this kind of narrative is something that can be the base for renovating the social structure. YC

2023-07-11 05:16:32 UTC

Both India and South Korea grapple with gender inequality issues, although they may manifest differently. Women in South Korea have long fought against traditional gender roles, workplace discrimination, and unequal opportunities for advancement. The challenges faced by the women in the film could potentially resonate with South Korean women who have experienced similar struggles. YC

Very effective means

2023-07-11 05:20:06 UTC

Effective storytelling can elicit empathy and emotional resonance, enabling audiences to connect with the characters and their experiences. A good film presents narratives that evoke empathy and compel viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and biases, fostering a deeper understanding of gender issues. YC

Stark Difference

2023-07-11 05:20:25 UTC

Writing with Fire gives us a platform to peer into the gender discrimination issues in India. When one thinks about gender discrimination in Singapore, we often think about the sexist remarks or workplace wages gap and promotion glass ceiling.

However, in India, basic human rights are being breached when it comes to gender discrimination. From lack of freedom, lack of voices to straight up physical abuse.

A nation can only progress together when all levels of society have the social mobility to move into upper levels of "caste". The women and lower caste people in India currently do not get the opportunity to do so, and this was something that the Singapore government prioritized when we first gained independence. Today, social mobility is based on a meritocratic system, giving everybody equal opportunity to move up the social ladder. In fact, many countries recognizes the need for social mobility when it comes to developing the country.

I felt that the complete overhaul of the caste system and equal opportunity for all is something that India can learn from (Shu Liang)

film as a voice (albeit possibly controlled by bigger players)

xinroselin2020 — 2023-07-11 05:24:19 UTC

Considering gender as a cultural and social construct, gender issues are a cultural matter. Hence for such issues to be discussed and contested, it requires communal effort and voices to be heard and known, film serve well as the “central” medium of our age next to social media possibly (aka spaces for 6 seconds, micro films, still films - with visual and audio effects, a medium with increased reach and persuasion) It is the “more widespread, coherent way compared to other cultural products” to express emotions, ideas and values.

hence it can be a good place to highlight gender issues due to its reach and allowing more voices to find its way to be made known, crossing geographical bounds.

However, given that film takes a digital medium / platform, not all voices can reach this medium, additionally, being “controlled” by market forces, political forces (big players), not all films can be that accessible by everyone. (eg. indian women in the documentary not being sure how to use a phone, still suggests presence of digital divide in the world; censorship / regulation of films by authorities) Although hopefully these situations are improving.

Intersectionality

2023-07-11 05:25:39 UTC

A good film does not just generalize gender issues. Not all women in India faces gender discrimination and similarly not all women in Singapore are free from discrimination. A good film addresses the intersectionality of gender with other identities such as race, class, sexuality, and ability. It recognizes that gender issues cannot be understood in isolation and explores how multiple systems of oppression intersect to shape people's experiences.

I feel that storytelling is really important when it comes to filmmaking. The film should employ thoughtful storytelling techniques to engage viewers and provoke critical thinking about gender issues. It can use metaphors, allegories, or parallel narratives to explore and challenge gender norms. Effective storytelling can create an emotional connection and encourage empathy and understanding.

Lastly, there should also be a call to action at the end of the film that will guide the film watcher in pondering of how they can make a positive change. A good film encourages dialogue and raises awareness about gender issues. It can spark conversations, challenge preconceived notions, and inspire viewers to reflect on their own biases and behaviors. This can lead to greater understanding, empathy, and the potential for positive change. (Shu Liang)

not in my experience, but may be present in more traditional religious / cultural groups in sg?

xinroselin2020 — 2023-07-11 05:31:57 UTC

To me the film highlighted institutional and cultural biasedness towards women. from my experience so far, I dont think I experience biasedness in Singapore’s culture. From my view, singapore has a fairly “westernised” asian culture (with feminism, individualism, meritocracy etc. finding its place in our value system). For instance, holding a meritocratic stance allowing a fair play for education and work, govt showing intentional effort to promote and campaign eg. Women in STEM / technology initiatives, including scholarships that specifically supports women in male dominated roles. At least from its portray and hence the cultural ideals being shared to its citizens, it aims to promote gender equality. I believe these efforts plays a role in shaping societal approaches as well.

However, presence of these sentiments in the film could still be present amongst the Hindus, or certain religious groups in Singapore, albeit hopefully to a less extreme end?

2023-07-11 05:35:26 UTC

It portrays the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of these Dalit women journalists as they fight against all odds to bring about social change. The film serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of journalism and the human spirit. It serves also as a reminder of the importance of independent media in challenging injustice and amplifying marginalized voices.

(Angus)

Different

2023-07-11 05:40:46 UTC

Not really. I believe that the injustice of the women in the film are highly amplified and obvious while that towards our local women is more subtle and nuanced. An example would be the glass ceiling effect within the corporate ladder whereby C suite executives are traditionally dominated by male counterparts. Though I do think that there are concrete efforts towards remedying the situation such as "Women in Tech" movements, many of these injustice albeit subtle still remain (Angus)

2023-07-11 05:51:19 UTC

I think film is a good medium to highlight gender issues as it makes us perceive that what you have taken for granted can actually be a significant social problem. As I wrote in the previous question, there are still some prevailing gender inequality problems in Korean society. However, as a college student, I never thought it would be a big barrier in my whole life. After watching 'Writing with Fire,' I could see my mother and my grandmother, who gave up their dreams to provide full support to their husbands and families, something I previously took for granted. Thus, film makes people realize the problems in their lives that they previously took for granted and motivates them to strive for a better society. (Taelim)

2023-07-11 06:07:05 UTC

I believe women's rights in Korea are more respected compared to those in India. Personally, as a college student, I have never experienced genuine Korean society, but women are equally educated and have equal opportunities for employment. However, there are still some challenges that our society needs to address in order to create a better society. These challenges include family abuse, limited promotion opportunities for women, and gender wage disparity. Unfortunately, it is not easy to completely eliminate these deeply rooted cultural norms, as they have been present for a long time. For instance, some elderly individuals believe that all married women should be housewives while all married men should provide for their families. Such stereotypes serve as significant barriers to women's rights advancement and achieving gender equality. Despite these obstacles, it is crucial that we continue to work towards a society that values and promotes women's rights, striving for true gender equality. (Taelim)

Intersectional Analysis and Inspiring Resilience and Empowerment

2023-07-11 17:23:51 UTC

(Edwin Loh)
In my opinion, the two key strengths of this film lie in its intersectional analysis and it inspiring resilience and empowerment.

The film delves into the intersectionality of gender with caste, class, and societal norms. By focusing on Dalit women journalists, it highlights the multiple layers of discrimination they face and the complexities of their experiences. This intersectional lens enriches the understanding of gender issues, moving beyond a singular narrative and emphasizing the interconnectedness of various forms of oppression.

The film also showcases the resilience and empowerment of the Dalit women journalists featured in the film. Their unwavering commitment to challenging stereotypes, amplifying marginalized voices, and seeking justice serves as an inspiration to viewers. The film encourages individuals to recognize the power of collective action and highlights the transformative potential of women's voices and agency.

Not Really (for Singapore)...

2023-07-11 17:34:13 UTC

(Edwin Loh)
While acknowledging that challenges exist, it is important to recognize that Singapore has made significant strides towards gender equality.

Singapore consistently ranks high in global gender equality indices such as the Global Gender Gap Index by the World Economic Forum. This recognition reflects the government's commitment to creating an environment of equal opportunities for both men and women.

Efforts have been made to promote women's representation in leadership roles. Initiatives like the Diversity Action Committee have encouraged companies to increase gender diversity in senior management positions, leading to more women assuming leadership roles in both public and private sectors.

Singapore provides equal access to education for girls and boys, enabling women to pursue higher education and build successful careers. The education system is designed to nurture talent regardless of gender, fostering an environment that promotes equal opportunities for all.

Singapore has enacted legislation to protect women's rights, including laws against gender-based discrimination and harassment. The Women's Charter aims to safeguard the interests of both men and women in marital relationships and family matters, promoting fairness and mutual respect.

While no society is entirely free from gender inequalities, Singapore's commitment to gender equality is evident in its high rankings, legal protections, and initiatives promoting women's representation and empowerment. This makes the situation in Singapore vastly different from that in India.

Engaging, Authentic, and the Power of Narrative

2023-07-11 17:37:10 UTC

(Edwin Loh)
I believe that film is a good space to highlight gender issues for three key reasons:

First, film has the great potential to be engaging, and has the power to convey emotions, experiences, and social dynamics visually. Through cinematic techniques such as camera angles, lighting, and editing, the film captures the lived experiences of Dalit women journalists, showcasing their struggles, resilience, and achievements. Visual storytelling allows viewers to connect with the characters and their narratives on a deeper level.

Second, film enables the audience to witness real people sharing their stories and experiences. By presenting the authentic voices of Dalit women journalists, the film fosters empathy and understanding among viewers. It humanizes the issues, making them more relatable and tangible.

Finally, the narrative structure of a film allows for the exploration of complex themes and the interplay of personal stories within a broader social context. "Writing with Fire" weaves together the personal journeys of the journalists with larger gender issues prevalent in Indian society. This storytelling approach helps to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by women.

2023-07-18 14:26:25 UTC

Women's rights in India are at the bottom, but the movements they have made to escape the pressure are not well known. It was uncomfortable to feel like the police or the prime minister was looking down on female reporters, but it was a relief that they did not give in and did their jobs silently.

I was impressed by how female journalists challenged stereotypes and broke down the barriers of gender inequality. However, it was also sad to see their desire daunted by a lot of limitations coming from their families and the society.

Through this movie, Indian women seem to be stubborn and strong now, not weak images. The film well delivers the message that they have a desire for education and show their capability well, hence I think the strength of the film is that it makes people recognize the journalists’ potential and their capabilities in the future as a great journalist. (Taelim)

Agency

mojetthomas — 2023-07-20 10:08:17 UTC

I think this is a powerful film, because it shows women as active agents, who undertake action themselves in their attempt to make this world a better place. This illustrates feminism not only in words, but also in deeds.

Matter of extent

mojetthomas — 2023-07-20 10:09:53 UTC

I think that it is all a question of extent. While the Netherlands is also still a patriarchal society, it is relatively progressive compared to India. I think India is an extreme example of a country where minorities, through interesectionality, suffer the most. Therefore, it is a good site to raise awareness on this issue. It does, however, not relate fully to the situation in the Netherlands.

Images

mojetthomas — 2023-07-20 10:11:41 UTC

In many issues, footage and images can speak louder than words. Similar to the European refugee crisis a few years ago, the urgency of the crisis was only realised by the general public after a photo of a drowned todler was published in the news. Therefore I think film is a very powerful mechanism to show practices of oppression, like gender issues.