WTF DID YOU SAY???

Inglourious Basterds opens this weekend, and the main theme of the film is language. It is such a big part of the story, and there is crucial scene that deals with language and is very intense. in fact it's so well crafted, some people might even say the scene runs too long, when in fact there is a reason for it. I won't spoil the scene but it plays out like a finely crafted chess match, with both sides feeling each other out looking for any clues that might make the other.

I was thinking about how language and words have changed over the years, especially today when everything seems to be electronic. Phrases dealing with sarcasm, dry humor, or expressions of love get lost in translation now, because there is no emotion behind them, just words. With Twitter, IM's, or text messaging you can tell someone off and just add a smiley face, and spell WINK, and soften the blow to an otherwise upsetting phrase or comment. Is this a good thing? Or is it the end to how we communicate. I suppose sometimes depending on what's occurring it might be appropriate to have some distance, but then we start becoming cold and machine-like (some of you might be snickering saying, "You're worried about becoming cold?" Yes, I am) that's when we start to lose meaning to what we're trying to say. There are more arguments today because of something someone thought they meant when they texted, IM's or twittered! It's getting out of control and although sometimes it could lead to funny stories later on, most of the times it lead to more trouble. People get divorced, break up, even challenge one another to fights at a wrestling exhibition during a party at conventions (that might be a bit too inside). Words without the person creates problems when communicating.

I'm just thinking out loud because of Inglourious Basterds, and the psychological warfare that happens between the Nazi's and the Basterds as they inch closer to one anther and their eventual showdown. I want to talk more about Basterds and some of the scenes, but it hasn't been released yet, until today. So go out and enjoy the film, and think of these things. Next time you hail a cab, or wink at someone, or flip them the finger....remember that you are communicating thoughts; emotions; ideas; you are a human being....talk about it.