Feedback and suggestions from Brian:

• cut the Bobbi Morse sequence from in between Black Widow and fetishisation quote sequences to make the ideas more linked

• add something referring to/exploring aspects of male objectification and female gaze to increase nuance in arguments

• refer to Bechdel test in some way so the viewer can have some familiar lamp post to lean on when it comes to discussing gaze and female representation
• improve the sound mixing at the beginning – make the voice over louder against Man’s World
• increase the voice over’s audio gain during Sara Kern quote about being aggressive and independent – needs to be clearer against the isolated sound clips from action sequences

I will also have to create and add the conclusion as well, of course.

Overall I think Brian approved of the style, texture, and visuals of the video which is something to be thankful for because whilst it’s great that the “potpourri” reference from the “Video Essay video essay” really stuck, it was also a point of great stress and effort. For the better, of course!

~

Ideas for implementing our feedback:

1. ON BOBBI AND CONTINUITY: I understand why Bobbi needs to go. The concept of fetishisation being discussed at that point was quite interesting and slightly left of centre so it’s important to pace it right for maximum audience grasp. Good lesson to keep in mind when thinking about rhythm and engagement in the future.
2. ON FEMALE GAZE: Add a small section referring to the eroticism vs athleticism reading from the “Females and feminism reclaim the mainstream” academic reading. Some options on the placing of this section could be right after the male gaze section (although that section feels long and full as it is) or right before the heteronormativity section (will have to word it in a way that could smoothly be inserted there).
3. ON BECHDEL: I did avoid mentioning the Bechdel-Wallace test because it felt like such a cheap pop standard but I understand how it can only enhance the viewer’s grasp on the idea. I don’t think I need to explain its premise because of its popularity and Brian seemed to agree. Will hopefully find a way to approach this topic without it appearing a little Beginner Feminism.