Michael Joshua's Blog

Evaluating top reasons to attend film festivals

It’s a misguided notion that film festivals are meant just for filmmakers and creative heads. The common people too can attend them, especially if they have a penchant for movies and documentaries that aren’t usually available.

Purpose of film festivals

These festivals give the makers and distributors of films a platform where they can not only market their craft but even promote social causes, if any, which are related to their films. For novice filmmakers or those who have made a film on an uncommon premise, getting it screened at some mini-major and major festivals can give them the chance to showcase their craft before acquisition executives, who may ‘discover’ the film and make the filmmakers an on-the-spot offer (such as a distribution deal). At the same time, film festivals also act as a platform for the cultural showcase of the philosophy of filmmakers. Additionally, such festivals bring laurels and appreciation for the filmmakers, actors, directors, and others associated with the craft, which can go a long way in encouraging them to continue what they do best (make entertaining or thought-provoking films) and even serve as an encouragement for budding talents.

Top reasons to attend film festivals

Apart from helping movie lovers discover great films, such festivals also provide them with a great prospect of broadening their perception as they get to see the craft of different filmmakers from different regions, who have different perspectives.

These festivals also offer a good mode of encouraging local talent, and building relationships with fellow film directors and producers, filmmakers, media representatives, supporters, and other professionals. By using such festivals for networking, one may pave the way for future collaborative opportunities.

Since a key purpose of film festivals is to give filmmakers the chance to get their films reviewed accurately, it too acts as a reason for them to attend these festivals.

 

Call to action:

What other reasons do you think are there for which you should attend film festivals? Let me know in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some interesting reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

Wittyfeed India. “5 Reasons Why You Must Attend Film Festivals.” DailyHunt, March 14, 2018. https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/wittyfeed+india-epaper-witty/5+reasons+why+you+must+attend+film+festivals-newsid-83569824

Grove, Elliot. “4 Reasons Filmmakers Attend Film Festivals.” RAINDANCE, September 16, 2018. https://www.raindance.org/4-reasons-filmmakers-attend-film-festivals/

 

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Evaluating book reading habit

There are various reasons why one should read books. Whatever one’s interests or field of work might be, he or she should create and nurture a consistent pattern and habit to read beyond his or her horizons. W. Somerset Maugham once said that developing a book reading habit would mean building a refuge for oneself from approximately all of life’s miseries. Though there’s some truth to it, it’s not the only reason why one should pick up a book to read from time to time.

The importance of selecting good books to read

To read books and get benefitted from the habit, one needs to be selective. Though one can surely read whatever he or she can lay his/her hands upon, it pays to pick good books that encourage one’s creativity, help gain knowledge, learn new skills (such as new vocabulary) or improve the existing ones (like communication skills) , train the mind to think deeper, help control anxieties, and reduce stress. In other words, good books are those that help one grow to the next level.

Ways to nurture a reading habit

From childhood, parents and teachers can play a crucial role in nurturing the reading habit. Encouraging the children to make a list of books they want to read, helping them set aside some time for reading or visiting the library/story book shops, encouraging them to limit the time they spend on TV or internet, etc. are just some effective ways of doing it.

Reading is much better than many other random habits and boasting of a lifetime reading habit is surely going to pay rich dividends.

 

Call to action:

Why do you think nurturing a reading habit is important? Let me know in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some interesting reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

6 Practical Tips to Help You Cultivate a Reading Habit.” HUFFPOST, Updated December 6, 2017. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/6-practical-tips-to-help_b_10311094

Babauta, Leo. “14 Ways to Cultivate a Lifetime Reading Habit.” Lifehack, Accessed May 30, 2019. https://www.lifehack.org/articles/featured/14-ways-to-cultivate-a-lifetime-reading-habit.html

 

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Top reasons why every student must read

From offering important nuggets of information to improving various skills, some of the best books to read can help high school or college students in different ways. That’s why parents and teachers should recommend a book or two that will encourage students to read and even help them to create their own reading lists.

Why every student must read?

Get a wide variety of perspectives

Short-listing books to read on a variety of subjects or even the same subjects by different writers present different perspectives in front of students, thus widening their own point of view. Sometimes, the same subject may be presented or analyzed from varied angles while at others, writers from different parts of the world, with varying thought processes and outlooks, can present different topics in their own ways to encourage analytical or creative thoughts, and thus an extensive outlook.

Improve existing skills or learn new skills

From learning new words and their use (thus, improving one’s vocabulary) to utilizing them while talking (thus, improving communication skills), the habit of reading books can help one acquire new skills and even brush up on the existing ones.

Give the brain some much-needed exercise

Students have to rely heavily on brainwork – be it for completing their projects and school/college work or acing the exams. Modern science and research have found that reading makes one smarter. For example, reading a novel helps boost the blood flow and improve connectivity in the brain. This is yet another reason why teachers and parents alike should recommend a book or more to students and encourage them to create a consistent reading habit.

 

Call to action:

What other reasons do you think are there for high school or college students to read books? Let me know in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some interesting reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

Abke, Ariel. “12 Reasons You Should Read (At Least) 12 Books This Year.” Unbound, January 1, 2015. https://getunbound.org/blog/12-reasons-you-should-read-at-least-12-books-this-year

SeriousReading.com. “30 Reasons to Read Books.” Accessed May 30, 2019. https://seriousreading.com/blog/283-30-reasons-to-read-books.html

 

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Reviewing the difference between watching movie at home vs. cinema

When considering the difference between watching movie at home vs. cinema, people often debate which the best is. Though some say watching the characters in a movie come alive on the big screen is an experience that one can’t get at home, modern home theaters often come close to imparting that experience in one’s home ambiance that offers an added flexibility. With several video streaming services offering a wide range of movies, TV shows, documentaries and much more at a fraction of the cost of movie tickets, watching movies at theater is taking a backseat these days. This is especially applicable for the young generation adept in handling smartphones and other smart devices that they use for their streaming experience.

Which platform is preferable for watching movies?

Compared to mobiles, tablets, TVs and smartphones, movie theaters undoubtedly offer a better watching experience – thanks to the bigger screens, the ambiance, realistic sound effects, and the incredible visual impact. However, they have their downsides too.

The steep cost, especially during the weekends, and the time spent (in traveling, standing at queues, buying popcorn and food, etc) is a big deterrence for many. The fear of someone ruining one’s movie watching experience (such as those who love to talk loudly, repeat watchers who drop spoilers, as well as wailing or whining children, among others) is another factor why many prefer to watch movies at home these days. The ability to have complete control on one’s movie watching experience (which include rewinding a scene, or pausing it, or skipping it altogether) is another reason why watching movies at home is becoming popular fast.

So, it all depends on the movie watcher – how h/she wants the characters in a movie to unfold – on the big screen or at a small screen amidst the comfort of home.

 

Call to action:

What do you prefer- watching movies at home or in a theater? If it’s the former – what’s your favorite platform among TV, tablet, phone, etc.? Let me know in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some interesting reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

Li, Dongyuan. “Watching movie at theatre or at Home.” SiOWfa15 – Sites at Penn State, December 3, 2015. https://sites.psu.edu/siowfa15/2015/12/03/watching-movie-at-theatre-or-at-home/

Sharrock, Sara. “8 Reasons To Watch Movies At Home Than In A Theatre.” BestVPNDeals.com, Accessed May 30, 2019. https://www.bestvpndeals.com/watching-movie-at-home-or-theatres/

 

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Evaluating how to imagine characters in a novel

According to Mendelsund, who is a classical pianist, philosopher, and the art director of a major publisher, readers really see with their minds and not with their eyes when they imagine the places and characters in a book.

How the authors help readers to imagine characters in a novel

Some authors give a vivid description of characters – from how tall or short they are, the kind of hair they have, and their skin complexion, to the clothes they wear, the way they talk, their habits, etc. Such details help the readers to outline an image of characters. However, there are some authors who simply depict some aspects of the characters, but leave the rest to the readers’ imagination. In such cases, there exists a lot more freedom when envisaging the characters. While some readers use the people they know to picture how a specific character would look like, others may take a Hollywood casting call in their mind to try to think of a particular actor or actress who would match the book’s description. Thus, it can be said a book encourages a type of collaboration between the writer and the reader to create environments, people, and situations from mere words.

Do movies or book review writing influence how one envisages characters?

Readers often feel elated or disappointed when how they had envisaged characters in a book turn out to be completely different from what a movie depicts and vice-versa.Even taking up the task of writing book reviews can influence how one visualizes characters, scenes, etc.

 

Call to action:

What do you think about visualizing characters in a book? Let me know in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some interesting reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

Exploring your mind. “What Our Brain Creates When We Read.” January 9, 2017. https://exploringyourmind.com/brain-creates-read/

Drews, C.G. “DO YOU VISUALISE CHARACTER FACES?” Paper Fury, March 19, 2015. https://paperfury.com/do-you-visualise-character-faces/

 

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Comprehending true importance of sex education

In this age of pregnancy among teenagers and STDs and infections, sex education has become important than ever. Though there have been debates on whether it should be taught to children, the advantages of sex education seem to benefit everyone, from an individual to the community.

Parents and teachers should understand that as sex is a natural part of life, curiosity about sex is also natural for teenagers and children who want to learn about their body. Starting a conversation early and continuing that as the kid grows is probably the best sex education strategy.

For those who’re still feeling hesitant about it, here’s the true importance of sex education.

Studies reveal that the more kids become exposed to sexual images, the more likely it’s they’ll engage in sexual behaviors at an early age. Proper sex education doesn’t lead to promiscuity. Kids, who receive age-appropriate sex education, are less likely to engage in harmful sexual activity.
Safety should always be regarded as paramount and sexual activity is no different. A 2007 study revealed that teens that begin using condoms from the starting of their sexual experience score higher on various sexual health measures compared to teens that don’t.
Children need to understand the changes that their body goes through, the reasons behind those changes, and how to live a healthy and happy life despite those changes. Effective sex education not only creates an awareness of infections and diseases but protects a kid from all types of sexual abuse too.

Parents and/or teachers, who feel it difficult to talk about sex with children, can try tactics like keeping it casual, using their own experience etc.

 

Call to action:

According to you, why should we support sex education? Share your thoughts with me in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some inspiring reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

SickKids staff. “Sex education for children: Why parents should talk to their kids about sex.” AboutKidsHealth, Updated October 13, 2011. https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=718&language=English

Boskey, Elizabeth PhD. “Top 10 Reasons to Support Sex Education in Schools.” verywellhealth, Updated March 31, 2019. https://www.verywellhealth.com/support-comprehensive-education-schools-3133083

 

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Reviewing the harmful culture of victim blaming

After a string of sexual assaults took place in north-west London, women have been argued not to use mobile phones or wear headphones, which can be considered as a different form of blaming the victim. The Metropolitan Police offered some safety advice to women like taking care when they’re walking alone, sticking to well-lit streets always, among others. Though the advice was well intended, it triggered criticism surrounding the culture of victim blaming as the narrative places the victim at fault, instead of the criminal.

Here’re some facts about the realities of sexual assault.

The BJS (Bureau of Justice Statistics) reports that a huge percentage of sexual assaults and rapes perpetrated against girls and women in the US between 1992 and 2000 weren’t reported to the police. Only 26 percent of sexual assaults, 34 percent of attempted rapes, and 36 percent of rapes were reported. While reasons for not reporting sexual assaults vary among individuals, one study identified victim blaming as one of the common reasons.

Sexual violence has become alarmingly common in society. According to the CDC, in the US, nearly 1 in 5 women are sexually assaulted or raped at some point in their lives, sometimes by someone they trust and know. In some Middle Eastern, African, and Asian countries, the figure is even higher.

People, who tend to exhibit the practice of victim blaming, sometimes try to say that it’s not rape if one has had sex with that person before. In reality, just because one has consented to sex previously with somebody doesn’t provide the offender with perpetual rights to the victim’s body. If one’s boyfriend, lover, or spouse forces sex against his/her will, it’s rape.

 

Call to action:

According to you, what can be done to change the practice of victim blaming? Share your thoughts with me in the comments section below. You can also get in touch with me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads to take the conversation forward. To have some thought-provoking reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

Smith, Melinda M.A. and Segal, Jeanne Ph.D. “Recovering from Rape and Sexual Trauma.” HelpGuide, Accessed May 29, 2019. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/ptsd-trauma/recovering-from-rape-and-sexual-trauma.htm/

NIJ. “Reporting of Sexual Violence Incidents.” Updated October 26, 2010. https://www.nij.gov/topics/crime/rape-sexual-violence/pages/rape-notification.aspx

 

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Identifying right age to lose virginity

Young people may have sex for different reasons – from physical pleasure, feel mature, and make their partner happy to curiosity, be popular, and feel loved. However, having sex too early is one of the biggest regrets they often have. Responses of a latest survey revealed that almost 26% of young men and 40% of young women didn’t feel that their first sexual experience took place at the right age to lose virginity.

When it comes to the age of consent, different countries have different parameters. For example, in the UK, it’s 16 while in Italy and Germany it’s 14. On the other hand, in Turkey, 18 is considered to be the appropriate age to have sex. In effect, it doesn’t matter what one’s age is, but he/she has sex with somebody below the age of consent, the person becomes a sex offender. While many may think that it’s not right to haul young people before the courts and put on a register of sex offenders alongside adult rapists, in reality, the law is there because of a reason – to safeguard the unprotected and less experienced. The global picture becomes confusing when the age of consent is extremely low in some countries.

Despite the controversies around the appropriate age to have sex, many young people in many countries become sexually active before adulthood. But does a good age to have sex makes any difference in terms of benefits or problems? While the issue of the proper age to have sex is an emotive one, perhaps the laws regarding the age of consent need to be more realistic and flexible to make sure that young people are completely protected.

 

Call to action:

What are your thoughts on the appropriate age to have sex? Let me know in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have inspiring reads, you can check out my books.

 

References:

Richards, Michael. “Why the age of sexual consent continues to be a worldwide challenge.” THE CONVERSATION, April 4, 2018. https://theconversation.com/why-the-age-of-sexual-consent-continues-to-be-a-worldwide-challenge-94334

Roberts, Michelle. “What is the right age to lose your virginity?” BBC, January 15, 2019. https://www.bbc.com/news/health-46794269

 

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Reviewing effects of drugs and alcohol

There’re a very limited number of people who can be addicted to drugs/alcohol and continue to function properly in society. Impacts of drugs and alcohol are so strong that they make most users overwhelmed and exhibit frustrating, baffling, sad, and frightening behaviors. Almost nobody can succeed in all areas of life equally. Often, the stress triggered by these substances shows up behind closed doors.

For those trying to understand can drugs/alcohol be to blame for one’s actions, the answer is a simple yes. Contrary to the belief of some people, use of these substances doesn’t often revolve around mellowing out and/or going to sleep.

Sometimes people can be heard saying ‘drugs/alcohol affects your behavior’ which is true to a great extent. Here’re some of the major reasons.

Use of these substances can make it difficult for one to make good decisions and to think clearly. Often they make it more likely that one will get into potentially dangerous or harmful situations.
Over time, drugs/alcohol abuse modifies critical brain activities and trick one’s brain into prioritizing those substances over everything else. Usually, those going through a substance abuse hazard morph into entirely different people altogether.

While these are the main reasons people say ‘drugs/alcohol affects your behavior’, the use of these substance takes a serious toll on one’s well-being as well.

For instance, there’s a close relationship between alcohol/drugs and mental health. They flood one’s brain with dopamine that’s found in regions of the brain which regulate motivation, emotion, movement, and feelings of pleasure. While this causes the user experience extreme happiness, after the feeling goes away, they’re left with

 

Call to action:

What are your thoughts on the impacts of drugs/alcohol on one’s behaviors? Let me know in the comments section below. To take the conversation further, you can also get in touch with me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some thought-provoking reads, be sure to check out my books.

 

References:

MOUNTAINSIDE. “How Addiction Changes Your Personality.” March 22, 2017. https://mountainside.com/blog/drug-addiction/how-addiction-changes-your-personality

Editorial Staff. “Lowered Inhibitions and Bad Decisions from Alcohol.” ALCOHOL.ORG, Updated October 19, 2018. https://www.alcohol.org/effects/inhibitions/

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An overview of sexual assault false reporting

Recently, much mention has been voiced (mostly by men) of false accusations of sexual assaults. These false allegations have created a very scary situation for men. In the context of the false accusation of rape, some high-profile cases can be remembered. For instance, the former football player and the Duke lacrosse players whose alleged victim admitted later that she wasn’t raped.

The comments that exude concerns about people accused of false sexual assaults can trigger a misperception, casting survivors of sexual attacks as liars out for revenge, and attackers as victims.

However, the reality is, there’s no evidence that cases of false accusation of rape dramatically exceed those associated with other crimes. In fact, authors of a 2010 US study argue that over the last twenty years, only two to ten percent of rape accusations are proven to be false. Other studies also come up with similar figures. According to the FBI, the number of unfounded rapes – those declared to be false after investigation – stands at eight percent.

A useful article in Quartz reveals that in the early 2000s, out of the 216 cases which were classified as sexual assault false reporting, only six resulted in an arrest. The study doesn’t support the idea a lot of men are going to prison because of false accusations of rape. In addition, according to official figures, the number of sexual assaults and rapes that are never prosecuted or reported far outweighs the actual number of men declared guilty of rape due to fake accusations.

Reports of false sexual assaults can be very dangerous for the true victims of sexual assault. Misconceptions about fake reporting promote incidents of underreporting, a very widespread and real phenomenon.

 

Call to action:

What are your thoughts on reports of false sexual assaults? Let me know in the comments section below. To keep the conversation flowing, you can also reach out to me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. To have some inspiring reads, don’t forget to check out my books.

 

References:

Kay, Katty. “The truth about false assault accusations by women.” BBC, September 18, 2018. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-45565684

MOON, EMILY. “FALSE REPORTS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT ARE RARE. BUT WHY IS THEE SO LITTLE RELIABLE DATA ABOUT THEM.” Pacific Standard, Updated October 7, 2018. https://psmag.com/news/false-reports-of-sexual-assault-are-rare-but-why-is-there-so-little-reliable-data-about-them

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