Hito Steyerl
The Uncertainty of Documentarism
Steyerl’s discussion about the “unbroken belief” of the documentary form being challenged refers to the traditional assumption that documentary images represent reality. In our usual perception, documentaries are produced objectively and truthfully. However, the author claimed that this belief is no longer trusted. Due to the technology of editing and manipulation, the information is not necessarily true now. People may now be skeptical about the authenticity of the contents of the documentaries in this digital age.
We usually claim that the arts come from real life and these inspirations can develop into some authenticity felt in the fictions. As movies may be based on a true story, they leverage truth to inform the fiction by incorporating real events, characters, or settings into the narrative. These factors of reality can enhance the authenticity, emotional resonance, and credibility of the fiction.
On the other hand, fiction can also inform the truth by exploring hypothetical scenarios and perspectives, or foreseeing futures. Through imaginative storytelling in fiction, social issues, real dilemmas, and human experiences can be involved.
The significance of authenticity and representation of truth in the media has a great influence on daily lives as they can shape perceptions, beliefs, and understandings of the world for people in the real world. Authenticity fosters trust and credibility, influencing how individuals interpret and engage with information presented to them.
Live broadcasts give people real-time information and events to audiences. They provide in-time information and a sense of connection. It is usually considered an authentic way of information communication, showing the real world without manipulation. But nowadays, there is even AI cloning technology for live broadcasts, which could be shocking that this real-time communication is not authentic or even humanlike.
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