In this episode, Dara starts off by looking at our need for light and also our desire for novelty. These ideas are both connected to how we are visual creatures and how the internet has capitalised immeasurably on this aspect of human behaviour.
Celine Sciamma’s brilliant film Portrait of a Lady on Fire, a film very much concerned with the power of seeing, is discussed in this context, but also prompts an exploration of female sexuality, and specifically lesbian sexuality, as presented in film. In extending the scope of the discussion, Dara refers to other films and looks at the difference between male-directed and female-directed sex and intimacy. Power, male desire, and female objectification are central to the differences found.
Staying with the theme of watching, subjective viewpoint is raised as a key mechanism of worldbuilding and our relationship with both reality and ourelves. When that reality is compromised, do we lose sight of ourselves?
Also, Martian interviews and self-sabotaging the podcast with topics too bleak to be tolerated!
Ep24 of The ClearOut (related): https://shows.acast.com/theclearout/episodes/the-fallible-smotherboard-and-the-fear-of-being-seen
Celine Sciamma Vox interview: https://www.vox.com/culture/2020/2/19/21137213/portrait-of-a-lady-on-fire-celine-sciamma-interview
Billy Connolly interview on Adam Buxton’s podcast: https://www.adam-buxton.co.uk/podcasts/13