Filmmaker Kristina Kendall discusses her film 'Undivide Us' which aims to foster productive conversations in a polarized age. The podcast explores navigating difficult conversations in filmmaking, finding common ground through respectful dialogue, reclaiming agency in society, and promoting civil discourse and conscious media consumption.
'Undivide Us' promotes open dialogue on divisive topics to bridge understanding.
Media portrayals fuel division; 'Undivide Us' emphasizes reclaiming agency and promoting empathy.
Deep dives
Fostering Civil Dialogue on Divisive Issues
The film 'Undivide Us' delves into challenging topics like guns, immigration, and abortion to encourage open and authentic conversations. Director Christy Kendall's approach involves selecting diverse individuals to discuss these contentious issues, aiming to humanize perspectives and promote civil engagement. Despite initial concerns of canceling due to societal tensions, the film showcases the power of face-to-face interactions in bridging divides and fostering understanding among participants.
Challenging Media Narratives and Reclaiming Agency
The podcast highlights the impact of media portrayals that often fuel division and dehumanization, perpetuating misconceptions about opposing views. By portraying the majority as not monstrous, the film emphasizes reclaiming personal agency in engaging with fellow citizens outside of polarizing media influences. It underscores the importance of local engagement and overcoming fears of societal discord to promote active participation in shaping communities.
Empowering Individuals Through Compassionate Engagement
The film underscores the value of conversations in humanizing disagreements without aiming to change someone's stance. Encouraging individuals to adopt a compassionate mindset by understanding differing viewpoints, it promotes empathy over polarization. By challenging audiences to assess media consumption critically and engage thoughtfully with others, the film advocates for reclaiming personal judgment and fostering messy yet invaluable freedoms in society.
Many Americans believe that civil dialogue with their fellow Americans is virtually impossible. Kristina Kendall's new film, Undivide Us, addresses that notion directly and offers a hopeful way forward for productive conversation in a polarized age.