Playing the News 2005
Distributed by First Run/Icarus Films, 32 Court St., 21st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201; 800-876-1710
Produced by Jigar Mehta and Jeff Plunkett
Directed by by Jigar Mehta and Jeff Plunkett
VHS, color, 22 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Adolescence, American Studies, Business, Communication, Journalism, Media Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, Psychology, Technology
Date Entered: 03/20/2007
Reviewed by Margaret M. Reed, Riley-Hickingbotham Library, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, ARThe delivery of news and information has entered an innovative realm with the advent of video games that simulate actual war reports. The goal of Kuma Reality Games, for example, is to reach an audience who may not otherwise keep up with world affairs. Playing the News questions whether such games serve as viable conduits of good journalism or merely function as entertainment.
The film specifically explores the game Kuma War, which, according to its designers, is an “intense, boots-on-the-ground experience” that replicates battles recently fought in Iraq. The filmmakers also detail the creative process and provide clips from the finished product. Through personal interviews, they give equal time to the game’s advocates and critics, leaving viewers to decide whether Kuma is a serious news outlet.
Instructors of various subjects will find Playing the News an excellent teaching tool. It could be used as a prompt for discussion, debate, or essay writing. Because the documentary is under a half hour, it can easily be shown during a single class session.
Playing the News was awarded the 2005 Currie Documentary Prize by the University of California at Berkeley School of Journalism. In 2006, it gained wide-spread attention on the film festival circuit, including the Middle East Studies Association Film Fest; the Tribeca International Film Festival; the SXSW Film Festival; the Seattle International Film Festival; and the Florida Film Festival.
Highly recommended for academic and public libraries.