Response to Bruno Bozzetto's Animation

The animation “Men vs Women” by Bruno bozzetto is a representation of the differing habits of men and women as assumed within the society. Upon watching and analyzing it, our group feels that it is generally accurate in portraying the distinct characteristics of men and women and their behavioural patterns in different scenarios.

We found the stereotypes generally true because they reflect the innate personality traits of men and women as they are transformed into actions. The reactions when viewed confirmed the credibility of the stereotypes. For example, when a true and applicable comparison was shown, laughter would ensue as we observe these trends in our daily life around us. As shown in the animation, women have a higher tendency to bawl their eyes out while watching romantic movies because they are more in touch with their venereal side and can empathize with the lead artistes who are being antagonized by affairs of the heart. Men, meanwhile, are more probable to find such shows mundane to a certain extent as their mindset is likely to be more practical and less emotive. It is difficult for a man to get attached to fictitious characters within a couple of hours and the lack of action will make it boring for him. Similarly, men have a more organised and straightforward mind. This concept is shown by the portrayal of the differences in the handbags of a man and woman. Men are likely to carry only what they need like keys, money, etc while women carry excess items like soft toys, lipsticks, powder, etc. This proves that men are more task oriented than women who do not mind unnecessary happenings.

However, this animation cannot be described as fully representative of the social behaviours of men and women. There are still parts of it which are too exaggerated and blown out of truth or relation For example, the animation regarding the differences in conversation was too vague. True, that men have conversations that are focused on a single topic which can be mundane. However, the depiction of a female conversation was unrealistic. The flowers gave the impression that conversation topics were frivolous and disorganised. They portrayed the topics as being unimportant and irrelevant. However, this is untrue and saying that women talk about worthless things would be outrageous. Similarly, a woman coming home does not revert to a maid’s job at home. Wifely duties are not confined to domestic chores. A modern day successful woman is also financially independent and can have other interests similar to a man.

In conclusion, we feel that while this animation brings about awareness among us regarding the various differences between men and women, it is an exaggeration and to an extent an inaccurate representation of the stereotypes present in the society.

Elaine, Abs, Nicholas, Thomas