-Crash-

Crash, a film by Paul Haggis, is a drama based on a real life event. It presents the lives of different ethnicities, races and class to us. It uses stereotypically views to show us how the different categories are viewed. Although there are different groups, I think race was the main focus of the film. 

The film starts by introducing us to all the main individuals of the film. However, the characters are introduced in a representation of their stereotypes. This is to make us view the characters in a certain way and possibly provoke us to agree with the stereotypes. A prime example of this could be the scene where the black men are complaining about stereotypes against them but then hypocritically car-jack the white couple. However, soon we discover the two men are not murderers. This is shown when they do not kill the white man or the Chinese man. 

The plot twist of this film astonished me. Paul Haggis cleverly used the character who wasn't even a suspect and the most trusted character in the film, the young, white policeman to actually be the murderer. I think that was a good idea because it sends the message that we should not judge people based on their race because anyone can commit a crime, regardless of their skin colour. 

I think that message was successfully presented in Crash, especially at the end. The scene that caught my eye was the white woman telling her maid that she is her best friend and how she was there when she needed her most. 

I love how Paul Haggis tried to demolish stereotypes and suggest that all races are capable of the same feelings and actions.

The audio codes used in this film were subtle but very powerful in my opinion. The first audio code I heard was the quiet and suspenseful instrumental at the beginning. The use of this sound was good because it didn't give much away but it was really intriguing and drew me in to listen to the clear voices of the characters. The use of clear voices was great because it allowed the audience to be introduced to them well and actually understand their thoughts at that moment. 

However, I think the most powerful audio code was the soundtrack of "Sense Of Touch". It gave me goosebumps. Although it wasn't in English it was easy to tell the song was meaningful. Regardless of knowing the songs words, it enabled me, and perhaps other people who have watched this film, to look over how discriminating stereotypes are. 

The main visual code I think stood out was how a lot of the film, including the beginning was in the dark. The setting was night-time. This is a dramatic effect which possibly could give a viewer chills. I think darkness adds to the mysterious effect and creates more tension and suspense. 

Overall I think the film was a successful, well put together film. The storyline was interesting and the messages given were powerful. I previously stated how I think race is the central focus of the film. I think that Paul Haggis was very smart with this focus because he didn't only present black and whites people, he also introduced us to other European races.