Noted film theorist and author Jon Boorstin once wrote that the basic feature-length motion picture audience evaluates his or her connection to a given film by using three criteria, or "eyes." According to Boorstin, the visceral eye evaluates how well a viewer is brought into the story by the reptilian thrill of sex or violence. The vicarious eye evaluates their perceived social connection to the protagonist. It is what keeps the viewer tuned into the hero's plight, provoking concern for his/her fate. The third eye, the voyeuristic eye, observes the film for the sheer sake of being carried away. These three criteria determine the film's ability to engage an audience, hold its attention, and transport them to another world. Without any one of these elements, Boorstin argues, most audiences would be bored, disengaged with the protagonist, and/or unimpressed by the mise-en-scène that directors construct to seduce audiences into participating in an involving, voyeuristic experience. From its in inception, the short film Rebirth was written with the idea of incorporating Boorstin's three eyes. It is hoped that the use of these elements will promote audience identification with the drama, protagonist, and overall experience. In other words, that the audience will be more fully engaged. The screenplay for the film can be found in Appendix A. The DVD is available for viewing in the Media Center of Love Library.
