Goodfellas (1990) Martin Scorsese.
Based on your favorite movie, you must write a five-page essay that addresses one of the prompts below. Your essay should observe MLA format and, of course, be your own writing. No matter which option you select you essay must:
1) Discuss cinematic elements and their impact
2) Employ analytical thinking—not merely emotional reactions
3) Discuss the social and cultural implications
Option 1: Focusing only on your fave, re-watch the movie with the new eyes (language) that you get from this class. How is your experience of the film changed. Was the film enhanced or diminished when you engaged it on the level of camera work, sound, editing, character analysis etc? Did the films cultural/social message overlook, overstate, anything? In short you will be comparing your prior experience with the film to your new experience of the film.
Option 2: Compare your favorite movie to one from AFI top 100 list found here: http://www.afi.com/100years/movies10.aspx. Discussing the elements (direction, editing, etc.) of the two films, as well as the social comments, how does your favorite hold up? Is one stronger in one area than the other or is one all around better? Try to be objective? Make selections carefully. If your film is on the top 100 pick a second one from the list. If we happen to discuss either film in class, make sure your points are unique.
Option 3: Pick another movie that shares a key figure (not actors)—director, editor, sound person, etc) with your movie. Compare the work of that figure or theme in the two pieces. What is similar or different in the person’s technique, style? Is there anything that might be considered a signature, something recognizable? Does the person show a new level of accomplishment? What strikes you? Did the person achieve the same level of accomplishment in the other version as you believe he or she did in your favorite? How does the person’s “touch” enhance, or relate to, the cultural point of the film?