Video Analysis: "The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross”: Making a Way Out of No Way (1897-1940)

DOCUMENTARY FILM ANALYSIS

Documentary films use a variety of methods (e.g., images, words, sounds, and various film techniques) in order to present an argument. View a documentary film and analyze the rhetorical and persuasive strategies employed by the filmmaker in the construction of the film’s argument. Take notes as you view the documentary.

DIRECTIONS: Read the questions below before you watch the film so that you will know what to look for while you watch. Complete the assignment by answering each question in full paragraph form. Answers need to be complete and comprehensive, while writing in complete sentences using proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

1) Provide a brief summary of the film and the “main characters” and events of the film. (2 paragraphs)

2) What did you learn from the film that reading or lectures would not provide? (2 paragraphs)

3) Describe two images or scenes from the film that stand out in your mind. Discuss why they stood out to you and how they relate to themes explored in the film. (2-3 paragraphs)

4) Does the film leave any disunities (loose ends) at the end? What is still left unanswered after the film?

Happy Viewing!