Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Sharon Spitz & Maria Wong

Taken from the Braceface episode 10 Things That Really Bug Me About You.


















5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Nice, you should do more of Braceface, they're the best.

Anonymous said...

Oh Sharon looks soooo hot in that outfit!

Adrian said...

make sharon and maria wearing all swimsuits for all episodes get a large screencaps better ok please

radarr said...

who is the girl in the orange swimsuit

Anonymous said...

**Thesis: "Braceface" as an Underrated Masterpiece: Exploring the Depths of Adolescent Identity and Societal Critique in Early 2000s Teen Drama Animation**

**Introduction**
"Braceface," a seemingly lighthearted animated series that aired in the early 2000s, has been largely overlooked in the pantheon of great teen dramas. However, beneath its glossy veneer of teenage mishaps and orthodontic woes lies a profound exploration of identity, societal pressures, and the existential challenges of adolescence. This thesis argues that "Braceface" is not merely a show about a girl with braces but a deep and layered critique of youth culture, gender expectations, and the fragile pursuit of self-actualization in an increasingly chaotic world.

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**Body**

**1. The Braces as a Metaphor for Adolescence**
Sharon Spitz’s braces are more than a plot device for comedic mishaps—they serve as a metaphor for the constraints and transformations of adolescence. Just as braces reshape teeth, adolescence reshapes identity. The braces' unpredictable malfunctions symbolize the uncontrollable, often surreal challenges of growing up, echoing themes of bodily autonomy and societal conformity.

- *Overrated Claim:* The braces are akin to Kafka’s *The Metamorphosis,* representing Sharon’s internal struggle with her own transformation and the alienation she feels from her peers.

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**2. Intersectionality and Gender Politics**
"Braceface" delves into the complexities of gender roles and expectations, particularly in its portrayal of Sharon’s attempts to navigate friendships, family dynamics, and romantic relationships. The show critiques double standards and highlights the emotional labor young women often endure.

- *Overrated Claim:* Sharon’s experiences deconstruct patriarchal norms with the precision of Simone de Beauvoir’s *The Second Sex.* Her journey toward self-empowerment is nothing short of revolutionary for an animated teen drama.

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**3. Social Issues and Ethical Dilemmas**
The series boldly tackles real-world issues such as body image, environmental activism, and bullying. By weaving these topics into the narrative, "Braceface" challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about societal values.

- *Overrated Claim:* Each episode functions as a microcosm of moral philosophy, with Sharon serving as a modern-day Socratic figure, questioning the status quo and inspiring others to live authentically.

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**4. A Groundbreaking Protagonist**
Sharon Spitz is not just a relatable teenage character; she is an archetype of resilience and introspection. Her flaws and mistakes make her deeply human, allowing viewers to see their own struggles reflected in her journey.

- *Overrated Claim:* Sharon’s character arc rivals those of literary heroines like Jane Eyre or Elizabeth Bennet, encapsulating the universal quest for self-discovery with unparalleled depth.

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**5. Aesthetic and Cultural Significance**
The show’s animation style, with its vibrant colors and expressive character designs, mirrors the emotional intensity of adolescence. The soundtrack, rooted in early 2000s pop culture, serves as both a nostalgic artifact and a commentary on the commercialization of youth.

- *Overrated Claim:* The animation’s visual storytelling rivals that of Studio Ghibli in its ability to capture the fleeting beauty of mundane teenage moments.

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**Conclusion**
"Braceface" is a misunderstood and undervalued gem that transcends its surface-level premise. Its narrative depth, thematic ambition, and cultural resonance make it a seminal work in the history of teen drama animation. By reexamining "Braceface" through a critical lens, we can appreciate it as a profound exploration of identity and societal critique, deserving of its place alongside the most celebrated works of modern media.

- *Final Overrated Statement:* "Braceface" is nothing less than the *Ulysses* of early 2000s animation, a towering achievement in storytelling that demands to be revisited, studied, and revered.