As short reflection on our excursion to the Banksy Exhibition and "Zone of Interest" movie

As a part of our core week, we went on an excursion to the Banksy Exhibition and movie “Zone of Interest”.  Both tackled significant global issues, provoking deep thought and reflection.

The exhibition showcased Banksy's famous artworks, aiming to prompt global introspection on society and its flaws, particularly war, militarism, and capitalism, with a satirical edge. His pieces undeniably achieved their intended objective, compelling viewers to pause and ponder.

Similarly, "Zone of Interest" offered a profoundly thought-provoking cinematic experience. Some criticised the fact that it didn’t follow a plot, but this contributed to the underlying message. It simply followed the lives of a family living in ignorant bliss next to a place where thousands were being burned alive every night. The juxtaposition of mundane conversations against the backdrop of unimaginable horror served as a stark reminder of humanity's capacity for moral desensitisation. The ease with which they talked about new building plans for a burning chamber was confronting and shocking. The incorporation of eerie, slow-paced music and masterful employment of natural lighting throughout the film lent an air of authenticity to the storyline, intensifying its impact.

Overall, both experiences left us deeply moved and connected by their exploration of humanity's capacity for both apathy and activism. - Rosa W and Lina O, Year 11