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FilmAnalysis5F21.docx

Film Analysis #5

You can pick any film from class this semester: Juno; East Side Sushi; Shakespeare in Love; Trial of Chicago 7; McFarland USA; Silver Linings Playbook; Ford vs. Ferrari; The Butler.

Your assignment is to analyze a specific example of how the film either reinforces or rejects a dominant cultural stereotype about race or gender. Be sure to be very clear and direct about the specific stereotype and the specific aspect of cinematic language you are discussing.

For example, you could show how mise-en-scene in a particular scene reinforces gender stereotypes about women as sex objects, or harmful stereotypes about Latinx culture. Or you could analyze how a particular scene advances more positive images of women/Latinx people.

Grading Rubric:

This paper analyzes a specific aspect of filmmaking, with 4 grading criteria:

1. Define the specific element of filmmaking being analyzed, and identify the specific stereotype you are focusing on. Be sure to incorporate information from the readings and course materials where appropriate (cite the page # or class video).

2. Describe how the element of filmmaking is illustrated in a specific scene.

3. Explain how the scene (or film) either supports or opposes the dominant cultural stereotype you are illustrating.

4. Discuss how the scene/film might impact audience perceptions about members of different cultures/genders.

500 words maximum. So, you need to be very specific in what you chose to analyze. You will NOT be able to analyze multiple scenes or elements of film form. Get right to the point and be concise.

Grading - 48 points possible (you will receive a score of 1-12 on each of the 4 criteria above):

Excellent (11-12pts)

Good (9-10 pts)

Sufficient (7-8 pts)

Insufficient (4-6pts)

Thorough explanation that is directly connected to the text book and course materials. Detailed description that appropriately illustrates the relevant element of filmmaking. Thoughtful discussion of the meaning and cultural significance of the chosen stereotype.

Sound explanation with limited connections to course materials. Clear but general description of editing/sound. Clear but less substantial discussion of meaning and cultural significance.

Some explanation offered with little connections to course materials. Partial description of the element of filmmaking being analyzed. Slight discussion of meaning and cultural significance.

Unclear or no definition offered with unclear or no connections to course materials. Incoherent or no description of the element of filmmaking being analyzed. Trivial or no discussion of meaning or cultural significance.

Due Monday Dec. 6th at 11:59pm