Scene 2

The second clip is a three minute interview with Geoffrey Canada who discusses the various components needed to create a more desirable and organized process when it comes to picking students at random. Charter schools are reaching its capacity and there’s nothing state governments can do other than attempt to manufacture more effective public schools that promote encouraging environments for students to learn. Canada’s interview is a focal point of the documentary because he is our “temporary Superman”. He states, “Either the kids are getting stupider every year, or something is wrong in the education system.”As long as the fight against public school systems and teachers’ unions continue, little progress will occur until someone is able to come up with an answer as to why such a highly-developed nation could provide students with such poor standards of education. Mr. Canada, as well as the rest of America, is seeking answers to this continuous question of uncertainty. Through Canada’s brief interview we are able to compare the similar techniques used in the first clip to the techniques used in this one as well. Guggenheim’s use of mise-en-scène throughout the course of the interview is important to note because of the conventional use of composition and high-key lighting. The technique shows that the individual projected in the shot is the most critical point within the frame. In terms of cinematography, the camera distance that is used to film Mr. Canada is a medium shot with a straight-on angle. The framing surrounding Canada is tight with little space other than the character portrayed in the interview. Another technical aspect of filmmaking used in this scene is editing. This scene is one of the few examples of continuity editing that occurs throughout the course of the film because the composition of shots allows for a continuous flow to occur without interruption. The 180-degree rule is also in effect here as the camera never moves behind the point of interest. Canada repeatedly addresses that the combination of tenured teachers along with insufficient funds will lead to an eventual decrease in standardized test scores and dropout students. This is arguably the most recurring theme throughout the course of the documentary. Canada expresses, “Superman did not exist…she thought I was crying because it’s like Santa Claus is not real, but I was crying because no one was coming with enough power to save us.” This statement illustrates that the success of our country depends on the desperate need for a powerful figure, like Santa Claus or Superman, who can step into the spotlight and alter public school education systems for the better.