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Essay 2: Exploring Myths, Metaphors, and Stereotypes in Film

Mythology (n.): The overall framework of values and beliefs incorporated in a given cultural system or worldview. Any given belief within such a structure – like the belief that “a woman’s place is in the home” – is called a myth.

Stereotype (n.): A preconceived and oversimplified idea of the characteristics which typify a person, situation, etc.; an attitude based on such a preconception.

Metaphor (n.): Something regarded as representative or suggestive of something else, esp. as a material emblem of an abstract quality, condition, notion, etc.; a symbol, a token.

Introduction
Over the past few weeks, we have discussed how television and movies can create cultural mythologies about certain people, groups of people, and even time periods (Lucy and Ricky sure looked happy in the 1950’s). We also explored the consequences of stereotypes in American film by unpacking the clever mechanisms filmmakers create “code” a message to the audience (aka subtext). Your task for the second essay is to choose a movie and explore any mythologies, metaphors, and/or stereotypes – coded or otherwise – presented in the film.

Choosing a Film
Possibilities are endless. From our discussion about Batman and The Joker, to the offensive Magical Negro, the Muslim terrorist, or the coded representation of homosexuality, movies represent a cultural mirror that may have very different interpretations to different audiences. As Arthur Laurents stated in The Celluloid Closet, “no one really sees the same movie.” So it is up to you to read and interpret the film as you would a text, and to tell us – the reader – how you see your chosen film. For example, one might see the last two Captain America films as simply a muscle man kicking the bad guys’ ass, but a critical viewer may read the title character as a symbol of American might and exceptionalism in a post 9/11 world, where an audience needs a hero and a symbol of justice.

So, when choosing your film, try to pick releases within the last 5 years. Also choose films that were popular at the box office and generated lots of revenue. Whether a film is good or bad is not important; leave all aesthetic tastes aside. (After all, highly-rated films can be duds at the box office; poorly-reviewed films can make piles of cash. See: Every Paranormal Activity movie ever made.) Simply put, stick with what is popular and not what you like.

Structure
This paper will be argumentative. You will need to formulate a thesis statement and quote from outside sources and essays from our text book. In addition, you will need to provide context for your reader by putting your chosen film in to a system where you can explore associations and differences. (Be sure to reread these definitions and review Chapter 4’s section about Joker.) We will model your structure based on a student essay in Signs found on page 49. Please be sure to read this essay for a class discussion on 11/4.

Technical Requirements and Grading
Your essay must be 5-6 pages (not including a Works Cited page). You must use a minimum of 5 sources (3 need to be outside sources). MLA format; Times New Roman; 12 pt. font. Final Essay is due 11/16.