Ethics and Film: Messages, Themes, and Techniques Module 4: The Merchant of Venice

by Magaret Haun, PhD

Core Values

Tolerance, Honesty, Respect, Integrity, Fairness, Redemption

This unit explores a range of human relationships and ways of relating as depicted in modern film. It also examines the interdependence of form (film technique) and content. In Triumph of the Will, Leni Riefenstahl manipulates scene, lighting, and camera angle to communicate the deification of her subject-Adolf Hitler. The result is a beautifully filmed but radically dishonest film project. As a technician, Riefenstahl is unparalleled. As an artist and world citizen, however, she is wholly corrupt, even criminal.

Casablanca, Mississippi Burning, and The Merchant of Venice (a comedy!) depict scorched worlds where tolerance and honesty have been replaced by narrowness and violence.

Stand By Me examines in detail the relationships among four boys who move in and out of closeness, respect, and trust, values upheld at every turn by this remarkable coming of age film.