Textual Analysis #1

Fahrenheit 911 (Michael Moore, 2004)

Michael Moore is commonly criticised for his obvious manipulation of footage, which results in many of his subjects appearing like fools, always to his own great advantage. A clear example of this is shown during Moore’s controversial interview with Charlton Heston during which Moore’s hat changes colour revealing that it was likely shot at separate times before being edited together. Interestingly though, throughout ‘Fahrenheit 911’ it appears that Moore moves away from his usual directorial style and leaves much longer un-edited sections of speech. Certain sections do tend to drag on and though they are helpful in putting across Moore’s points as well as take away the argument that Moore may be manipulating speech, they are occasionally painfully un-edited. Moore employs no middle man into his discussions or views and generally only interviews people that either share his same view or which will only serve to make opposing ideas seem ridiculous. This means that we as an audience get a very one sided account of events, the way in which it is presented however, forms an extremely effective argument and one which is difficult to disagree with. Though at times the satirical nature of Moore’s voice-over may seem insensitive it is one of the main ways in which he gets his points across, the fact that it makes fun of serious and sensitive subject helps to make them seem foolish and in turn makes opposing views seem unwise and thoughtless.