swathi says…

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  • Must-See Movie: Catfish

    As a casual viewer of documentary films, it is without hesitation that I highly recommend Catfish to even those who steer clear of documentaries.  Thanks to my “hip” younger brother, I was introduced to Catfish: The TV Show, a spinoff of the original movie.  The premise?  People in online relationships seeking answers of their mysterious significant others.  In most cases, the person on the other end of the computer screen ends up being a “catfish” – a person who creates fake online profiles by using other people’s pictures and false biographical information.

    The main character of the documentary (who is also the host of the television show), Nev Schulman, was filmed as he formed a relationship with a 20-something girl via Facebook, only to come to the realization that he was “catfished.”  Now for those of you who haven’t seen the film I will refrain from saying anymore.  The revelations made throughout the documentary are thrilling and fascinating.  And the TV show truly makes you realize how prevalent catfishing is and perhaps makes you wonder if you have been unknowingly catfished.  Spooked yet?

    While the entertainment value is high, this internet phenomenon is quite unsettling.  What does this say about these catfish who think they need to hide behind their computer screens and deceive others into liking them?  It’s a tragic look into the abyss of insecurity within each of these individuals.  One can’t help but feel pity, and wonder what drives them to such extremes.  But much like a train wreck, we find it hard to look away.

    Take a look at the trailer for Catfish!  (Don’t be thrown off by the horror story-like marketing strategy.)

  • Simon says…

    Simon says, “Pay attention.”

    Simon says, “Touch your nose.”

    Simon says, “Read these words.”

    Simon says, “Cover one eye.”

    Simon says, “Stop reading these words.”

    Haha!  Gotcha!  You are now eliminated from the game of “Simon Says.”

    Annoyed?  Of course you are.  Welcome to psychological warfare.  Perhaps I exaggerate, but “Simon Says” is one of those children’s games that seem to haunt us into adulthood.  I’m a medical student, and every day feels like a game of “Simon Says” – constantly following commands by our seniors, showing complete submission, and at times facing overwhelming humiliation.

    Now, by no means am I complaining.  Every job that demands excellence has high standards of training and rightly so.  But this is what we are conditioned to expect from our days in the schoolyard playing “Simon Says.”  From my memory, it was always the most dominating kids playing the role of “Simon,” dutifully eliminating players.  Maybe this game is a primer for future leaders.

    On the other hand, let’s take a look at the players.  They have to keenly listen, focus, and control their reactions.  What a wonderful exercise to encourage children to be mindful and attentive.

    Whether you’re “Simon” or one of his players, there are valuable skills to be learned from each opposing role.  Although, “Simon Says” inspired the name of my website, I assure you this “Simon” has only one command – Swathi says, “Enjoy my blog!”