Reasons To Riot

Matthew Thomas
“That Day”
2003
Video

As I observed Matthew Thomas’s film, “That Day,” my immediate reaction was “home sweet home.” The idea of warm, loving family/friend memories, triggered in my mind. In its entirety, this video has been constructed very creatively. The lighting situation was handled pleasantly by candles, which corresponded well with the picture frames. The idea of placing a video clip in a picture frame was unique, with the addition of motion effects. The voice recording, dialogue, and caption were particularly appealing; Thomas spoke all of which. However, there was major difference in the dialogue and lauguage spoken by the messenger and answering machine recording. Proper English vs. Ebonics/Slang was the main disparity, especially in the conversation. The caller expresses his opinion about changes Thomas has made in life, while insinuating this fact is why they haven’t talked in a while. The idea that one relocating to better himself in life, is looked at as being a trader or sell-out. The caller also refers to Thomas as being “white” several times during the message. Throughout the film, Thomas illustrates the fact that he really hasn’t changed. He still talks and acts that way, but there is a time and place for everything. After viewing the film, I feel as though Thomas was trying to make a statement that his success hasn’t made him forget his roots.