The act of reading literature can often take away from the reader’s perception of how a scene might look visually, or it can get in the way of noticing the physical reactions of a character. Usually, a person is so absorbed in trying to understand what they are reading that they do not take the time to let the scene actually play out in their mind before moving on to the next. In the film version of “Wit”, the viewer is presented with a visual depiction of how Vivian’s story unfolds, and in my opinion, this allows the viewer to have a heightened enjoyment of the play.Certain scenes in the film allow the audience to witness the discomfort and embarrassment that is felt by Vivian throughout the play. One scene in particular is Vivian’s endurance of a gynecological exam. While the written version of “Wit” provides the information that the exam performed on Vivian is thoroughly degrading, that particular scene in the play is no match for the actual visualization of Vivian’s shame in the film. The fact that Vivian continues to fidget and cross her arms clearly shows her need to protect herself from the uncomfortable situation she is currently in. Also, the way Jason leaves Vivian with her feet in the stirrups is important because this is when the audience really sees his lack of consideration. Again, while the play described this scene in a very uncomfortable light, I did not get the full effect until I actually saw it in the film.
Another scene similar in nature to Vivian’s gynecological exam shows Jason once again lacking in compassion as he lifts up Vivian’s nightgown and begins to prod her stomach as he explains her case to Dr. Kelekian. I think this scene is important because, reading the book, there is a clear notion that while Jason might have all the intelligence to be a great doctor, he lacks the compassion or “bedside manner”. One thing that I picked up on was that in the book, the focus of this scene is on Jason outshining his colleagues as he displays his knowledge to Dr Kelekian. However, I think the screenwriter for the film included shots of Vivian looking uncomfortable, yet again, in order to reinforce Vivian’s shame and Jason’s apathy even as he displays his medical knowledge.
3 comments:
Carlos Castellon
Yes, I agree that visuals are important for the viewer(s). I can only imagine what it must be like to have that type of exam performed on me. Hopefully technology will advance to the point where a doctor does not have to prod around your insides.
I don't agree with your diagnosis of Jason's emotional disconnection, or rather, bedside manner, towards Vivian. As nurse Susie stated, "She (Vivian) hasn't been cupcake." At times, Vivian seemed perplexed about the routine exams. At one point she refused to take an exam requested by Doctor Kelekian.
Both, the play and film, gave me the impression that Jason was nervous and felt anxiety due to his lack of experience. I think that his focus was to impress his professor (Dr. Kelekian) and do his job right. Given his situation, I do not think that I would have been interested in emotionally bonding with my patient either.
Jason mentioned that he had theories on cancer treatment and could not wait to get his own lab. I think he was very motivated and driven to find a cure. I can only conclude that his ambitions and goals clouded his emotional connection towards Vivian. I can't really blame him for dreaming big.
Campbell, Austin
I somewhat agree with your opinion regarding literature verses seeing the being acted out on stage or screen. Where I agree with your opinion, is if the reader is simply reading to get through the book rather than absorbing the text. However, most people who read for enjoyment actually find it stimulating to let their imagination act out the scenes. Furthermore, if the literature is produced as a stage performance or movie, these same people are curious to see if the director’s interpretation of the work matches the scenes that they have played out in their minds.
Vivian’s gynecological exam was a bit more dramatic in the movie to the point that Vivian’s discomfort was pal papal to the point that I felt more empathy watching the scene than I did reading the scene. Not only could I sense Vivian’s discomfort, Dr. Posnor’s discomfort and awkwardness was more pronounced as well. In addition to the visible cues offered by the two characters in this scene, the props played an important role in making the scene complete. I’m referring to the exam table and the loud and startling racket that is made when Dr. Posnor yanks then stirrups out awkwardly one at a time placing Vivian’s feet in them.
The advantage that screen plays have is that nearly 90% of all communication takes place no verbally. Neither the written nor spoken word can be nearly as effective as those same words being acted out.
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