Proceedings of the World Conference on Media and Mass Communication

CONTROVERSIES OVER CONTEXTUAL CHANGES: AN IN- DEPTH ANALYSIS OF DAT RUNG PHUONG NAM (2023) FILM ADAPTATION

Liem Bui Quoc — 2024-10-21

The aim of this study is to explore the controversies that emerged from the contextual changes in the film adaptation of Dat Rung Phuong Nam (2023). The study addresses three main research questions. First, it analyses how the film's contextual changes differ from the original novel and how they are received by the viewers and critics. Second, it evaluates the effect of these controversies on the film's box office performance and critical recognition. Third, it reveals the challenges and opportunities that arise from adapting literary works to the screen, based on the case of Dat Rung Phuong Nam. The study uses a combination of textual analysis, audience reception studies, and industry perspectives to enhance the understanding of the complex dynamics involved in adapting literary masterpieces to the cinematic medium. The study also highlights the nuances of audience engagement and the implications for commercial outcomes and critical reception.

THE URGENCY OF PROTECTING THE SAFETY OF JOURNALISTS IN COVERAGING DUTIES ON THE MIDDLE EAST WAR: A CASE STUDY ON THE HAMAS-ISRAEL CONFLICT

S Jumadal — 2024-10-21

The conflict between Hamas and Israel prolonged since 7^th October 2023 has caused many reported and unreported casualties from the journalists’ side. Until March 2024, 105 media workers from various countries were killed while covering events in the Gaza Strip. The number of casualties has risen exceedingly since the year 2022. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) reported the deaths of journalists in the Gaza Strip had contributed to 72% of the deaths of all media workers worldwide. The death toll of journalists in the Gaza Strip in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict constitutes an unresolved problem threatening the freedom of the press and democracy. This study aims to excavate what efforts should be made by relevant authorities to protect the safety of journalists so that they can avoid violence when covering and disseminating information in conflict areas, especially in the Gaza Strip. This study uses a qualitative approach. Data collection was conducted through a literature study and content analysis of news articles on violence against journalists during war coverage in the Gaza Strip. The research findings show that the relevant authorities have only expressed concern about the violence and deaths of journalists in Gaza but there has been no concrete effort to guarantee the protection of journalists. A concerted effort to protect journalists in dangerous environments such as war zones is essential to uphold democratic values and encourage transparent information dissemination despite challenging situations.

CONTENT ANALYSIS OF THE TV SERIES “SEX EDUCATION” AND ITS PORTRAYAL OF ADOLESCENT RISK BEHAVIORS AND STIs

J C Atienza — 2024-10-21

Cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to rise at alarming rates worldwide. Numerous studies have outlined the disconnect between sex ed programs and the actual interests and concerns of the youth, causing them to seek these gaps in popular media. Given its immense popularity and diverse sexual health messages, the researchers sought to analyze the Netflix series “Sex Education” S3 and describe how it portrayed sexual health issues through the lens of Entman’s (1993) media framing typology: causation, consequence, problem, solution and responsibility. The study found that it addresses themes on identity, partner communication and sexual exploration, therapy as an effective method towards healing from sexual assault-related trauma, and idealized depictions of sex and human genitalia in pornography. Characters discuss STIs such as chlamydia, herpes, syphilis, and HIV, offering verbal insights regarding transmission, prevention, and treatment. The adolescent risk behaviors identified include engaging in casual relationships, unprotected sexual intercourse, having multiple sexual partners, and sexting. Unfortunately, framing analysis revealed that the consequences associated with these behaviors were notably absent. Rather than portraying unforeseen pregnancy as a problem or an immediate consequence, the show delves into the intricate psychosocial changes that unfold within the character as its result. Despite these, characters are framed as responsible for the prevention of teenage pregnancy and HIV through securing mutual consent, contraceptive use, and regular testing. The series also depicts media sensationalism and the conservative approach to sex education as institutional problems. While belittlement and inconsideration of teenage concerns, unnecessary disciplinary actions for voicing them, and public humiliation are framed as social problems. Overall, the show provides valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of teenage sexual health and well-being.