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This Podcast Will Kill You
Special Episode: Robert Alpert, Merle Eisenberg, Lee Mordechai & Diseased Cinema
Jan 21, 2025
Join Robert Alpert, an intellectual property lawyer turned film professor, along with historical experts Merle Eisenberg and Lee Mordechai, as they dive into the intriguing world of disease-themed movies. They discuss the evolution of cinematic portrayals of pandemics, revealing how narratives shifted from heroic to personal struggles. The conversation touches on societal reflections during crises, viewer motivations during COVID-19, and the importance of inclusive storytelling. Get ready for a captivating exploration of how film mirrors our hopes and fears about health!
46:15
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of disease-themed films reflects shifting societal values, transitioning from heroic portrayals of government institutions to skepticism towards authority figures amidst a backdrop of individualism.
- The underrepresentation of marginalized communities in disease films raises concerns about reinforcing stereotypes and failing to address the socio-economic and racial disparities in public health narratives.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Disease Movies
The narrative landscape of disease-themed films has significantly shifted over the decades, reflecting societal changes and cultural anxieties. Early films, predominantly from the 1920s to the 1980s, often depicted heroic doctors affiliated with the government sacrificing personal interests for the greater good. As the landscape evolved, particularly in the 1990s, the portrayal of these heroes began to shift toward more personal motivations, with individuals increasingly portrayed as looking out for family or personal success. The late 20th and early 21st centuries have seen a rise in apocalyptic narratives, showcasing chaos and individual struggles amidst global pandemics, indicating a growing distrust in institutions and a corresponding rise in individualism.
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Discover
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