This dissertation explores the connection between sustainability and dominant images of
the future in contemporary film. The research uses an ecofeminist visual
interdisciplinary methodology to investigate the importance of vision/images of the future
in guiding the creation of ecologically sound and socially just futures, and how films, as a
source of dominant imagery, may be interfering with our ability to envision positive
futures as well as provide opportunities for positive visions. The research is in two parts:
1) a visual studies analysis of contemporary films based on critical futures studies
(Causal Layered Analysis) ecofeminism, and 2) and interviews with filmmakers. The
visual analysis explores and problematises patterns of images of the future in film,
especially those of natural landscapes, animals, plants, human settlements, food, and
water as well as racial and gender roles within human society. The interview data
documents the filmmakers’ experiences within film industry and their commentary on the
filmmaking process and practices. The research participants’ words also inform the
exploration of opportunities for the transformation of the filmmaking industry.
Filmmaking is theorised as a technology, based on Ursula Franklin’s interdisciplinary
work on technology as systems of practice, and Albert Borgmann’s philosophy of
technology.
This dissertation argues that we need visions of sustainable, diverse, and socially
just futures to inspire and guide our actions in the present, and that films can contribute to
positive imagery. The research explores barriers to envisioning sustainable futures, such
as dystopic Hollywood film images and scientific/ environmental professional and
scholarly practices that discourage visioning work. As well as exploring why it is
important that societies have visions of ecologically and socially just futures, and how the
filmmaking industry can be part of the sustainability revolution. / Graduate
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:uvic.ca/oai:dspace.library.uvic.ca:1828/3323 |
| Date | 30 May 2011 |
| Creators | Hurley, Karen |
| Contributors | Higgs, Eric, Clover, Darlene E. |
| Source Sets | University of Victoria |
| Language | English, English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Rights | Available to the World Wide Web |
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