Andy Warhol and Reality TV
So have we all become voyeurs? Are our lives not as exciting? Or do we want to be entertained? From Andy Warhol to Reality television shows, every average joe wants their 15 minutes of fame. However, fame costs a price with these two. The camera plays as our passive watcher, watching our every move and documenting it as the film rolls. How far must we play out our roles in front of the camera? With Warhol’s videos, he pushed his cast to the max, letting them become uncontrollable, dominating (on the set) and brash. Just like reality tv, the actresses push themselves to the limit. Of course all this energy becomes negative as the film rolls. People become characters they never thought they would exemplify. And what, all for a chance to become famous? It is a risk that comes with the struggle to obtain fame and fortune.
One such reality tv star took advantage of this behavior. On The Apprentice, Omarosa M. Stallworth made herself a public image that made her successful. Although her image was not one worth going after, it sold. Her infamous use of aggressive and manipulative spirit made her likeable among Hollywood assosciates and fans which led her to talk shows and commercial deals. It is all about becoming popular.
Luckily, Andy Warhol never lived to see the internet. The more mediums we have to communicate, the more 15 minute famers we will attract. Youtube.com is one of the most well-known sites for hosting varities of videos, many aimed at people going for their 15 minutes of fame. Is it all real in the end, or are we looking to be accepted in society on a massive scale?
October 18th, 2007 at 8:47 am
It’s a good question, and I think in a way, for the most part yes, we are looking to be accepted in society on a massive scale. I think as human beings we are always looking for acceptance, we think too much, create too many scenarios that are completely self construed and rarely match reality. What is reality? That should be the question. In the end I think it is the series of choices that we make, we really do create our own destiny, but we question and judge ourselves and others too much, it just gets in our way- go with the flow- own every choice you make and don’t complain about it later when you should have could have would have…(I mean people in general, not you you.
Peace!
October 25th, 2007 at 10:22 am
I disagree, I think it’s unfortunate that Warhol didn’t live to see the rise of the internet and digital media. In terms of reproductions and experimenting with variations, who knows what he could have accomplished.