I Spy With My Little Eye...

As a response to Hitchcock's REAR WINDOW, some theorists equate Jimmy Stewart's character as a metaphor to the film audience. His character was fixated in his wheel chair recovering from a broken leg - unable to leave. We as movie-goers have the same problem. In both instances, Stewart's character and the movie-goer watches a subject in the dark while that subject is unaware of who is watching them. If this theory holds true... we are all voyeurs.

Do you agree with the statement that YOU are a voyeur? How does that make you feel? Are you embarrassed?

The term "voyeur" has always held a negative connotation, and before discussing the term in class, I have always thought of it as that way. This term is a perfect example of how different cultures perceive and interpret things differently. In French, the term literally means "one who sees," which then upon second thought, leads me to believe that I am a voyeur, according to French terminology. In English, however, the term refers to a "peeping Tom" who secretively gazes at others for sensual/sexual purposes. As movie-goers, the movies in which we watch are created in order for people to view them. Those who create and act in movies, and even in documentaries, are usually being recorded for the purpose to be viewed by the movie-goer. I would not use movie-going as a reasoning behind being a voyeur since the actors and people involved almost always are aware that they will be watched.

I do agree that everyone, including myself, is a voyeur, as the French see it. Everyone from one time or another has gone to the mall or park and have "people watched". My friends and I find it quite fascinating, sitting in the mall and secretively judging those who pass us. Over spring break, I went on a trip to San Francisco and spent an afternoon in a park in which I "people watched." The water fountains that were at the park were quite unusual, and water spurted out from the top of the fountain, instead of the bottom. I remember watching several people go up to the fountain, confused as to how they should approach the fountain for a drink. One person in particular, eventually gave up, held their palms in a cup, collected the water, and drank from their hands. Candid Camera is a popular TV show in which "people watching" is recorded, with intended humorous scenarios. Those who view such a show can then be considered "voyeurs" as well (in a French sort of way).

Since practically everyone can be considered a voyeur, I find myself unembarrassed after reinterpreting the definition and using it the French way. It is in our own human nature to observe others and to be observed by others, and I find it near impossible to not be considered a voyeur.