Ethnographic Filmmaking

Assigned Response Paper #6
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Assigned Response Paper #6
Ethnographic filmmaking is a career that is hard to maintain. But Anthony Bourdain does so not as a filmmaker but as a chef and a writer. In his various travel documentaries, Bourdain has been known to provide honest opinions of the different cultures and cuisines he enjoys. However, these opinions may at times not sit well with some viewers. In season three of Parts Unknown, Bourdain travels to several countries, including Russia. While in Russia, he gives a candid view of the country's President. This conversation can be seen in the opening scene of episode five. In this paper, the author explores this scene to explain why it is essential to ethnographic filmmaking.
The scene begins with Bourdain detailing the unwarranted popularity of the Hotel Metropol in Moscow. From Bourdain's tone, it is clear that he is not particularly comfortable with the place or the city. This is an essential aspect of ethnographic filmmaking. Bourdain knows that the viewer already has a biased view of Russia. However, he does not add to this prejudice. Instead, he provides an honest opinion that is based on fact. Also, he redirects his uncomfortable feelings to his friend Zamir, who has just walked in. Bourdain notes that unlike him, Zamir has to live with the burden of being a Russ...