Retrato: A short narrative film on the ethical dilemma photojournalists face when covering graphic/emotionally disturbing scenes

Date of Publication

4-17-2023

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts Major in Communication Arts

Subject Categories

Film and Media Studies

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Communication

Thesis Advisor

Jose Javier Reyes

Defense Panel Chair

Abigail Ehlie Quirong-Pole

Defense Panel Member

Eric Carlos
Clodualdo A. del Mundo, Jr

Abstract/Summary

Retrato is a 19-minute short psychological suspense film depicting the morality and ethical dilemmas photojournalists face within their profession. The film narrates the story of Carlo, a cowardly rookie photojournalist on his way to acquiring a substantial political scoop but witnesses a gruesome crime in a dark alleyway instead. Scared and panicked, the only thing he can do is hurriedly capture the act with his camera. Constantly haunted by the scene and uncertain of what actions to take, he encounters Kael, a part-time waiter in a nearby restaurant. As they get to know each other throughout the day, Kael’s words impact Carlo’s decision on whether he will publish the photos. Doing so, however, puts him and his life in jeopardy. Retrato’s concept is driven by how photojournalists face ethical dilemmas in their constant pursuit of truth and justice through their lens. It also aims to portray the various psychological, social, and moral implications of such a cruel scenario to showcase how media practitioners face and make decisions amidst the dangers of their jobs. As Communication Arts students and future media practitioners, the proponents aim to tackle and raise awareness of the moral and ethical predicaments photojournalists need to undergo in such a profession through Retrato. They incorporated various cinematic elements for the film to be grounded, gritty, and authentic to create an atmosphere that mirrors real-life occurrences.

Keywords: photojournalism, ethical dilemma, psychological suspense, media, film, communication

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Thrillers (Motion pictures); Photojournalists--Ethical aspects

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Embargo Period

4-20-2023

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