The world of cinema is vast, spanning multiple genres and capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide. As educators, it is essential to expose students to a diverse range of films, including those outside mainstream narratives. This article will focus on teaching students about August Underground, a lesser-known film series by director Fred Vogel, which presents an opportunity to discuss the complexity of cinema and explore the boundaries of artistic expression.
The August Underground Series
August Underground (2001) is the first installment in a trilogy of films by American filmmaker Fred Vogel. The series also includes August Underground’s Mordum (2003) and August Underground’s Penance (2007). These films are categorized as “pseudo-snuff” and are known for their highly disturbing content, explicit violence, and controversial themes.
Teaching Approach: Contextualizing the Film
Before diving into the films themselves, it is crucial to give students an overview of the contextual landscape from which the series was born. This can involve discussions on independent cinema and its role in pushing cinematic boundaries. Additionally, providing background information on director Fred Vogel will help students understand his artistic vision and influences.
Analyzing the Artistic Style: Found Footage Technique
The found footage technique is central to the August Underground series; this approach offers an opportunity for students to learn about unconventional filmmaking methods. Educators can help students explore the found footage subgenre further – analyzing its roots in cinema history and how it has evolved over time – as well as compare it to other filmmaking styles.
Ethics and Controversy in Art
One key aspect when discussing these films with students is navigating their controversial nature. Viewing scenes from August Underground may not be feasible due to graphic content; however, fostering a dialogue about ethics in art is essential. Engaging with questions about artistic freedom, individual responsibility, and the role of censorship enables students to develop critical thinking skills and formulate well-rounded opinions.
Themes of the Film Series
Each film in the series has unique themes and motifs that can be explored through discussion or written assignments. In August Underground, the film delves deep into the world of snuff film, a banned and morally repugnant category of cinema. In the second installment, Mordum delves further into themes of sadism, torture, and the darkest depths of human depravity. Finally, Penance reflects on the consequences of violence and explores themes of remorse and redemption.
Cinematic Impact
While August Underground may not be widely regarded as a mainstream success, it represents a significant milestone in extreme horror cinema and continues to influence modern films. Encouraging students to examine how these films have impacted subsequent works in the genre allows for an appreciation of their lasting impact beyond their visceral content.
Conclusion
Teaching about August Underground opens up avenues for deep discussions on the varied nature of cinema, controversial artistic expressions, and ethics in art. By offering context, delving into themes, and assessing its impact on broader media culture, educators can equip students with valuable analytical tools that they can apply across other subjects as well. The August Underground series is undoubtedly complex but undoubtedly provides fertile ground for cultivating critical thinking and fostering intellectual growth.
