Call for Submissions: Issue 10
The theme of Issue 10 is Taboo.
Far from forbidden in the cinema, taboo subjects have been the sources of audience escape, excitement, and emotional resonance. Their depictions may cause controversy and discomfort, but they are, in fact, vital to the complication of traditional concepts and moral standards, prompting our reflections on taken-for-granted norms and conventions. The next issue of The Film Dispatch will focus on the theme of taboo and taboo-breaking in the movies. We invite contributions in relation to, but not exclusively in relation to, the following areas of interest:
1. Sexuality and Relationships: Explore narratives surrounding teenage sex, premarital sex, extramarital affairs, LGBTQ+ relationships, and polyamory portrayed in films.
2. Religion and Spirituality: Examine the nuanced portrayals of religious and spiritual themes in cinema and their impact on audiences.
3. Mental Health and Disabilities: Address the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health and disabilities as depicted in film narratives.
4. Body Image and Appearance: Investigate the representation of body image and appearance standards in movies, and their implications on societal norms.
5. Economic Status and Class: Analyze the portrayal of economic disparities and class divides in cinematic storytelling.
6. Death and Mourning: Reflect on the cinematic exploration of death, grief, and the mourning process across different cultures and contexts.
7. Race and Ethnicity: Delve into the complexities of race and ethnicity as depicted in films, and the evolving landscape of representation in cinema.
8. Politics and Ideologies: Examine the intersection of politics, ideologies, and power dynamics portrayed in cinematic narratives.
9. Family Relationships and Parenting: Explore the secrets of family, dynamics of familial relationships, parenting styles, and unconventional family structures depicted in movies.
10. Violence and Trauma: Investigate the portrayal of violence, trauma, and its aftermath in cinematic storytelling, including its societal implications and reflections.
Please note that we encourage contributions that address the relationship between the taboo theme and the film form and style (consider the use of cinematographic techniques, lighting, editing, sound, narrative style, genre, tone, and so forth).
The deadline for submissions is 4th APRIL, 2024.
Length of articles we are looking for:
- Features: 1000-1500 words
- Reviews: 500 words
- Short pieces: 500 words
Contact details:
- Instagram: @the_film_dispatch
- X: @thefilmdispatch
- Email: thefilmdispatch@gmail.com
We welcome everyone, from those who love writing to those who love watching films!
