On 10 October, International School Savremena’s students had a slightly different interdisciplinary lesson. Year 13 students enjoyed a movie night at Cineplexx Ušće Shopping Centre, where they went to see the Joker film accompanied by their Psychology and Sociology teachers so as to approach their discussion from two different perspectives.

Film as a teaching tool

Set in 1981, Joker follows Arthur Fleck (starring Joaquin Phoenix), a failed stand-up comedian, who is driven insane and turns to a life of crime and chaos in Gotham City. Isolated, bullied and disregarded by society, Fleck transforms into the criminal mastermind known as the “Joker”.

The film was chosen based on the topics it deals with – abnormal behaviour and changes in society brought on by globalisation. The students discussed these topics in relation to the film in class with their Psychology and Sociology teachers.

The students observed how the social context, i.e. family and the growing capitalist society, can have a powerful effect on people’s personalities in terms of distorting one’s values and beliefs, which can ultimately lead to a personality disorder.

The Psychology lesson was dedicated to the students trying to figure out the types of personalities and disorders the main character progressively developed throughout the film. During the Sociology lesson, the students tried to define the moments in the film that focus on how society influences individuals.

Movie Nights

The teachers use popular films in order to enhance the students’ learning experience and understanding of topics. The Movie Night is perceived by students as an entertaining and welcoming change which can increase their motivation and interest in the topics, which is why International School Savremena often organises such events.