Film

2023/6/5 00:58 Preparing to Watch and Write about Film: Sum23 ENGL 001B #53408 READING AND COMPOSITION-Online

https://canvas.pasadena.edu/courses/1134351/pages/preparing-to-watch-and-write-about-film?module_item_id=15343686 1/2

Preparing to Watch and Write about Film Heads UP: We are not taking as much time for this module as the others. It is important to watch the films and do the assignments right away.

Most people enjoy watching films. When we analyze and write about film, we practice a lot of the same techniques we would use for poetry or literature. But film brings the delightful addition of a visual palette, spoken dialogue, and soundtrack. The senses are appealed to, and we are drawn into worlds elsewhere.

We are watching Jim Jarmusch's

Down By Law

and

Paterson

2023/6/5 00:58 Preparing to Watch and Write about Film: Sum23 ENGL 001B #53408 READING AND COMPOSITION-Online

https://canvas.pasadena.edu/courses/1134351/pages/preparing-to-watch-and-write-about-film?module_item_id=15343686 2/2

For this module, you must watch, acquire, or purchase the two films on your own. Each costs about $4 at Amazon, YouTube, or iTunes. You might be able to find them elsewhere for free.

Give yourself the time and opportunity to watch the films more than once, since you will be writing about both of them. Take notes--YES, I said that again!!!-- while you watch, as remembering details in the film can be a bit tricky. You should know the characters by name and you will want to capture dialogue and quotable material, as well as a sense of scene.

For example, you can take notes to remind yourself of images, details, lines of dialogue. Note the names of the characters as you meet them. You can also note the visual effects, the use of soundtracks, and any film techniques you recognize.

Do some research to help you with allusions or background. Treat each film as though it were a poem or a story. Dig deep.

Enjoy!