Film Analysis

Description

movie: Florida project on Netflix

what is the social message?

where does the movie or the cycle end?

Prompt:

For this essay, you will compose an analysis of a film. It will be your choice as to where/how you acquire a text for your analysis. However, whether you choose to write on a play or a film, you must make sure that the text you select is of high artistic quality. You can write on the film you watched for this class if you want. If you are unsure about a film, please check with me first.

Content: Make sure you follow all the directions on the prompt- it explains content and structure. The grading rubric can help you as well. You need to create an argument (no summary except in the introductory paragraph) about the meaning of the film, its social message, and/or interpret a problematic element of the film itself. You can use any of the elements of film to develop your analysis. This essay is designed to help you explore films that offer up thematic mysteries and ambiguities (questions the film seems to ask without answering absolutely), which invite a number of interpretations, both about the meaning of what is seen (theme) and/or the reality of occurrences or events in the film’s plot. This essay should articulate well thought-out responses to the film by using different elements of film. In your essay you will need to: familiarize your audience with the film, beyond a first viewing response, that will set up your thesis. Your analysis should give your audience insight into the people who have made the film, the messages of the film itself, and how that knowledge may be useful in understanding the film; you will explain how the elements of film combine to allow the viewer to see the film as the end result of an intentioned process. In-text citations/ direct quotes: For films, you will cite the hour and minute after a quote, and the director.

Example: The actor’s physical attributes are shown when he is described as having “a brute force determined to cause destruction” (Director last name 1:15).

Grading Criteria and Expectations: -Your final draft should reach the bottom of the third page at a minimum, or the essay will be lowered to a C- (105/150) before grading. The Works Cited doesn’t count toward page length.

* Your paper should be in proper MLA format: double-spaced, 12 point font, with 1-inch margins.

* -Your essay should be spell-checked and proof-read for errors.

* If an academic coach helps you with your paper and can sign a draft or otherwise document your visit, you will receive 5 extra credit points toward the total score.

-Most importantly, your essay must develop an original claim/thesis for which you give evidence from the primary sources. Suggested prompts if needed (answer these to create your argument. Don’t include any questions in your essay)

-What is the social/historical context of the film and how does that affect what is in the film and what audience it appeals to?

-How are the actors portrayed physically and how does this impact the other aspects of the film?

-What genre of film is it, and how does that help convey the film’s message? (examples: drama, film noir, comedy, family drama, psychological thriller, horror, western, etc.)

– Why are flashbacks and voice-overs used? – Are there messages most audiences would get? (remember that Hollywood “dumbs down” movies because they think we’re all not very smart, so when you notice deeper messages, definitely focus on them). Bladerunner offers a good example. The Director’s cut has more ambiguity