Write a specific analysis of four scenes from films that we have seen in class. (Two scenes from two films – for example, two scenes from
Volver and two scenes from Bend it Like Beckham.)
Other movies:
Do the Right Thing
Shadow of a Doub
Chungking Expres
Mildred Pierc
Buster Keaton “The general”
Mustang Turkey, 2015
Maudie
CRAZY
Your scene descriptions should be detailed and talk about all aspects of both the mise-en-scene and the cinematography.
Discuss some of the reasons why the director may have used particular elements of the mise-en-scene and cinematography. These reasons might include, e.g.: establishing the genre, tell the stories, set a mood, or reveal the characters.
Your scene descriptions might also describe relevant motifs and themes. Consider also discussing the use of sound.
As an option, you may discuss how the two films are similar or different, in terms of themes, visual style, characters, etc.
In each case make sure that you refer to the relevant handouts
and use the proper film terms
(Don’t forget to consult the “Glossary,” under “Resources’ in SLATE).
Do not use any other sources from books, articles, or online.
Do not Google the films. Essays that include material from the web will receive zero (0).
This is not a group exercise. Essays which include sentences used in other student’s essays will receive zero (0)
Submit your essay by Aug. 4th
Late essays will not be considered.
Note these four points in writing any film essay:
1. Film titles must be in italics.
2. Always use the present tense in talking about a film. The following is correct: “Buster tricks the bad guys by jumping through a window into a woman’s dress.” “Buster tricked” is incorrect.
3. Use the first person in writing about your observations, ideas, thoughts. For example: “I believe that the Veda character functions as the femme fatale in Mildred Pierce.”
4. You are writing the essay for me or someone like me—in other words, someone who has seen the film many times. As such, do not spend any time re-telling the plot. Just jump right into the scene you want to discuss. For example: “In the scene where Raimunda returns to the apartment with Paula, we see lots of red objects, e.g. pieces of clothing, etc. in the street and at the house.”
