I have a friend who creates film projects in Los Angeles. One of his earliest ideas for a PSA (Public Service Announcement) was on the subject of riding the LA subway. He had this narrative about a young guy and girl seeing each other and making a flirty connection while riding the subway. The point of the story having to do with the possibilities inherent of public traveling (verses of course, being that it is LA, car traveling). He began riding the LA subway - or well, took at least one round-trip ride. Apparently he found the experience so dismal, and his target audience so obviously absent, that he scraped the whole project. The PSA was replaced by a funny story about the dangers of smoking marijuana. Hmm.
I think sometimes you need to have the vision to create something that maybe others cannot see. In fact, it is your vision shared with people that expands what is deemed possible. I think historically we see this sort of beyond-the-box leadership, especially in such endeavors as civic infrastructure projects and scientific research. Maybe we should apply those rules to our media making as well.
This article touches on public transportation and talking with strangers. I mention this as I love public transportation but hate what it has become. Cell phone abuse anyone? I really would love to do a public awareness campaign, in collaboration with a transportation provider, about the joys and pitfalls of riding with our fellow citizens. Something funny, but also speaking some real truth. Anyone?
I am down for the PSA on cell phone abuse. How about nice little cards to handout, say, biz card sized, that say something to raise awareness about the whole public vs private space?!
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