The video Killing Us Softly 3 has had a strong and long-lasting impact on me. Every day I think about standards of beauty (even in my small little circle of reality here in the corn-fed Midwest), and who has created them. This film has really changed my perspective about things. I strongly recommend it to anyone who hasn't already seen it. It is by Jean Kilbourne, and it examines how women are portrayed in the media, and the kinds of implications that it has on our society as a whole. She did her first versoin of the video in the 1970's, and the third version came out in the 1990's. I have yet to see the 4th one, which came out earlier this month.
On a related note, one of my favorite websites ever, Everything is Terrible, contains several infomercials featuring some absolutely ridiculous beauty gadgets and gizmos. Obviously, a lot of women recognize that these products are worthless and a waste of money, but SOMEone out there must be buying this crap. Why else would they keep making more??
Here is a sampling of some infomercials for your entertainment:
The Revo Styler (um, since when are we too lazy for a round brush??)
This is gross
Facercize
The Art of Scarf Styling
This thing is just really creepy
Of, course the Shake Weight (and their version for men!)
So, on a completely UNrelated note, to take us out with a smile this Thursday afternoon, I give you Tappercise.
Should I even admit that I owned a Revo Styler for years? Whoops, too late.
ReplyDeleteNice post, and thanks for sharing the video links.
Hahahaha!!! The truth comes out. Thanks for reading, m'dear.
ReplyDelete