Video 1 ("Gift") Commentary

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PKn0hL9aBs

1) Describe what the main concept or "big idea" behind the video is.

• It is a persuasive video attempting to convince the viewer to think before they adopt. They do this by playing with the viewer’s emotions and making them feel bad for the dog. 

2) What is the emotional tone of the video.. Happy? Sad? Optimistic?

• The overall emotion was sad, because this family decided to leave the dog on the side of the road at the end (SIDE NOTE: After one time in which the dog tore up a room? Chickens.)

3) Were there any clues that the adopted child was a metaphor for an adopted dog?

• There were. She was playing fetch with her family, the other girl ran up to her and gave her love as soon as she walked in, she was at another table while the others ate at the table, and more that hinted that she was actually a dog.

4) Identify the message the filmmakers were trying to convey.

• To adopt carefully. They wanted to evoke emotion in the audience so they will take that message to heart.

5) In your opinion, was the message effectively conveyed?  (Use examples to support your opinion)

• In my opinion,  the message was not effectively conveyed. I say this because the change was too abrupt (The music and tone suddenly shifted. A fade in would have been a lot nicer and less jarring to the viewer, maintaining the mood.), the motions were too exaggerated (When the girl tugged on the mom’s shirt, she exaggeratedly slaps her away). This abrupt change and unrealistic motions took me out of suspension of disbelief, making me think critically. I will admit that thinking back on it, I do find it a bit depressing but initially I didn’t feel any emotion upon finishing it, and the twist was sort of predictable. (SIDE NOTE: I really do like the montage of when the adopted girl first arrives home, though. The colors, music, and shots fit perfectly well.)