Fantasia, Brought to You by China

In this still from the closing ceremonies of the Beijing Olympics, 2008, one thing screamed at my mind (and eyes): the Disney movie Fantasia. With the emphasis on vibrant colors and magical strength and choreography, the photographer was definitely capturing a moment meant to impress. The artistic edge is eye-catching, abstract, and makes the audience wonder if China is as open-minded in contemporary issues as it is in artistic design. The eye is drawn to the center, mostly, at the acrobat (male or female, who knows), then moves to the supporting performers first in the foreground, then in the background. Overall, this production has obviously taken an extreme amount of time, resources, and dedication to pulling off with such stunning aesthetics and devotion. The photographer used this to show that China is strong, beautiful, graceful, steady, and united. Or is it? Viewers find no discernible features or personality in any of the performers, only flawless performance. While China may be strong and wonderful, the audience may question its first, fantastical thought: is China really as open-minded as this photo suggests?

Brainstorming

Use of pathos: tries to impress, mostly. Shows an artistic edge that caught my eye, as I appreciate unique art. The abstract combination of colors spoke out to me. Aside from that, there isn’t much emotion involved except for an obvious dedication to perfection and responsibilities. They make me sure that whatever China is, it will stay that steadfastly. It’s inspiring, these kind of resources being used with such verve, and only confusing in trying to find any personal identity in the performers. We’re very used to, in the US, to celebrities – these unique individuals whose lives become famous and televised obsessively. Not knowing anything, physically even, about these thousands of performers is a bit boggling. It makes me wonder how honorable it is to uphold only the winners – those who get medals – and not the ones who helped put up the venue for them to compete in. I suppose the duty itself is an honor.

Image Source: Stills from closing events of Beijing Olympics 2008.
Inference: Seen all over the world and every last second of its presentation was important.

Figure and background: Male(??) performer, acrobatic with other performers; background chorus or other multitudinous drones in the act. This acrobat is holding a difficult pose on what looks like a rolling drum-type prop, rolled by two others. The acrobat is dressed up and lighted in an ethereal blue uniform that stands out, but makes it hard to see any personal identity or characteristics through the paleness. The background people are probably singing or making other group-related motions, etc. (I saw the opening ceremonies, not closing).
Inference: China put a LOT of effort, time, money, and calculating before putting on this show, showing that they take the event and the importance of this athletic community, at least, seriously.

Narrative of image: China is strong, beautiful, and united. China stands out, and might even be open-minded (use of wild colors and performance suggests change or acceptance / ambition in other areas).

Focal Points: Triangular, shows movement: first stare at the acrobat posing, then the two upholding him, then the background with its pastel hues.
Inferences: The photographer wants us to focus on the central idea of strength, grace, beauty, and of unity / uniformity.