Forum examines how 'The Matrix' ties in to studies

The summer movie season is upon us, and with it, one of the most anticipated action sequels is generating not just media hype and headlines, but intensive interdisciplinary study.

In that respect, you might say that The Matrix has class. Or, at least, an afternoon symposium co-sponsored by the broadcasting, telecommunications and mass media (BTMM) department and the new media interdisciplinary program at Tuttleman Theater on May 17 from 3-5 p.m. “Mapping The Matrix” will examine the cultural and technological themes of the film even as its sequel, The Matrix Reloaded, opens in theaters nationwide.

“There’s an intense polarization about The Matrix: People love it, hate it or don’t get it,” said Barry Vacker, a BTMM assistant professor. “The Matrix has become a global phenomenon, a cinematic touchstone for the fears and hopes of digital culture.

“This event will question whether The Matrix is a millennial masterpiece or postmodern pastiche, cerebral action film or intellectual poseur,” he added.

In addition to Vacker, speakers for the event will include William Irwin, an associate professor of philosophy at King’s College, and Read Mercer Schuchardt, who teaches media studies at Marymount Manhattan College. The speakers will be followed by a panel discussion and a multimedia critique of the film’s imagery, including how it has transformed many traditional metaphors from dystopic and science-fiction cinema, according to Vacker.

“The Matrix takes philosophy out of dusty old books and away from the Ivory Tower and puts it on the big screen in the local mall,” said Irwin, who has written several books tying philosophy in with popular entertainment, including The Simpsons and Seinfeld.

“The Matrix is doing something absolutely unique in the history of cinema,” said Schuchardt, a contributor to the book Taking the Red Pill: Science, Philosophy and Religion in The Matrix. “It is preaching a sermon to you from the only pulpit left. It is calling you to action, to change, to reform and modify your ways. Can a movie successfully do this?”

Some scholars seem to think so, according to Vacker, whose research areas include utopia and dystopia in media, technology and culture. Still, he hopes the symposium will illuminate criticisms of the film as well.

“This event is designed to be both enlightening and entertaining, showing the variety of ideas and influences that make The Matrix so loved or loathed among filmgoers,” he said.

Admission is free. For more information on the event, e-mail barryvacker@mac.com. — Helen H. Thompson