Eskwilson
Episode 4 of season 1 Stand up shows us in many ways that people have power, here are couple of examples.
The scene of Joel surrounded by his peers shows us people’s beliefs overpower rules and peer pressure. Although being surrounded by his classmates who sing the Anthem, Joel realises that the Anthem is not him. He doesn’t see himself or the way he views Australia in the lyrics of the Anthem. The mid shot used shows this very well, by seeing Joel look down slightly disappointed and hurt as the others look towards the flag. The panning shot used shows us the amount of students singing the Anthem, the huge number would only make it harder for Joel. This shows he is quite strong as he goes against everyone around him.
In this scene Joel’s father is telling him he doesn’t have to stand for the song, even if he gets into trouble. After giving in to singing the Anthem the next day in order to not disappoint his parents, Joel’s father gives him a pep talk to continue to do what he feels is right. The close up shot used shows Joel’s father does care and helps to give the point across of what he feels about the Anthem. He says “That’s not our song. It doesn’t belong to us” to truly give his point across. This proves that having someone behind you makes you stronger.
In this scene Joel’s Mother and Father and himself have been called into Mrs. Macann’s office for not singing the Anthem. During the time in the office Joel’s father talks about multiculturalism within the school and how he shouldn’t be in trouble for doing what he believes. Because of speech Joel’s father gives Mrs. Macann and Mr. Parrish think differently of the situation which is evident by their facial expression.
After being expelled from school, Joel and his parents take the problem in to their own hands. Joel’s parents send him to school knowing he would be taken out of the school. After being taken out of the front doors of the school a newspaper photographer is waiting. The next day Joel, Mrs. Macann and the security are of the front cover of the newspaper with the words ‘Aboriginal Youth Expelled Over National Anthem’.
