Instructions:
1. Read the chapter on film analysis. I can send this part to you!
2. Rent and view one of the films from the list below. You should view the film at least twice. Take notes as you go and pause and
replay scenes that you don’t understand or that you find particularly interesting.
3. Write a paper which answers the questions below.
a. For minimum credit answer all the questions below. Be sure to number your answers.
b. More complete answers will receive higher scores.
4. Papers must be type written and double-spaced. No papers will be accepted by e-mail. Maximum length: five pages.
Review Questions:
1. What is the true subject or theme of the film, and what kind of statement, if any, does the film make about the subject? Which
elements and which scenes contribute most to addressing the theme of the film?
2. How do all of the separate elements of the film relate to and contribute to the theme, central purpose, or total effect?
Film Elements:
a. Narrative – The manner in which the story is told. What is the plot structure? Is it chronological or non-linear? Are there
flashbacks or other narrative devices and why are they used?
b. Acting – the qualities of the performances. Is the acting realistic or is it mannered? Are the characters dynamic (do they
change as the film progresses)? How?
c. Cinematography – The qualities of the photography and lighting. Identify specific scenes and camera shots that you thought were
particularly interesting.
d. Editing – The pace and tempo, the use of transitions and the organization of the narrative. Identify any editing technique you
thought was particularly interesting
e. Art Direction and Design – Locations, sets, effects, props, costumes and make-up.
3. What scenes in the film show the director’s style and how do they show it?
4. What were your personal reactions to the film? What are your personal reasons for liking or disliking the film?
Film List:
Action Adventure, Epic: The Sea Hawk (1940), The Wages of Fear (1953), War and Peace (1956), Ben-Hur (1959)
Comedy: Safety Last (1923), Modern Times (1936), Bluebeard’s Eighth Wife (1938), Sullivan’s Travels (1941), Road to Morocco (1942)
Drama: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939), Citizen Kane (1941), The Bicycle Thief (1948), 12 Angry Men (1957)
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