What is the Cinedramatic Method;
The CineDramatic Method is a synthetic approach that we developed together with my friend and colleague, Evika Mavroeidi. It utilizes the theory and tools of Cinema and Dramatherapy to invite participants to express themselves.
Depending on the theme set for the session and through the projection of a selected film excerpt, space is provided for processing the emotions and thoughts that arise from observing the words and actions of the actors.
The CineDramatic Method is primarily based on the theory of Christian Metz (2007). Metz draws from Lacanian theory and argues that through the projection of a film, a chain of imaginary identifications occurs, activating the adult’s childlike games in front of the mirror and the primary uncertainties of identity. Thus, the projection of a film, as a symbolic tool, creates a space for the deposit of projections and identifications. In other words, the viewer has the opportunity to identify with a fictional hero, project their concerns, be inspired, and so on.
“The film is like a mirror. However, it differs from the mirror in one essential respect: although, as with the mirror, everything can be projected, there is one thing, one single thing, that can never be projected. The body of the viewer themselves.”
Metz, 2007:68
In a Cinedramatic session, we first activate our bodies through integration activities, and then we screen the selected film excerpt. Following this, we individually and collectively process the excerpt, and through a new series of activities, we prepare for the role. At the end, we connect these activities with our daily lives.
No! It is not necessary to know every award-winning film or to passionately support art-house cinema. Whether you enjoy Tarkovsky, Tarantino, Papakaliatis, or Papatakis, or none of them, you are welcome! In Cinedramatic sessions, we do not focus on film theory or provide technical information. We use films as inspiration to explore the themes we are addressing in our present lives.
No, it’s not necessary. All the activities we have prepared will focus on the specific excerpt, not the entire film or its plot.
The only requirement for participating is to have curiosity and a willingness to experiment!
The Cinedramatic Method follows all the principles of Dramatherapy; in other words, it is a form of Dramatherapy. The only difference is that in a Cinedramatic session, we always use the filmic context and experiment by drawing material from it.
Hmm, there isn’t just one answer to this question. Often, the choice of a seminar or group you start with is influenced by the theme that has been set. Therefore, the theme itself might guide you to one or the other. In both cases, you will experiment and explore aspects of yourself through role-playing.
In a Cinedramatic session you may:
change the ending of a film
direct a new scene
play a leading or supporting role
write a film review
conduct interviews
create a sequel/prequel
and so on!