Review the materials above; then select a film from the list above, especially the following two readings: Writing About Film and Film Analysis Guide.

Carefully watch your selected film. Do not rely on your memory of a film you have previously seen. You’ll need to select one scene from the film to analyze for the essay. Remember, a scene is a series of shots combined to represent a set of actions happening within the same time and place. Take notes while you watch the film record any formal techniques (see the film analysis guide) or motifs you notice.

Research: Research a bit on the film’s director and it’s context.

Write an analysis and reflect on your viewing experience.

First, at the top of your document, note the following information:

The title, director, and year of release for your selected film. (Remember that in MLA the film’s title should always be set in italics.)
Identify the genre of the film (e.g. western, romantic comedy, film noir, family drama, etc.)? Give a 1-2 sentence rationale for your choice.

Second, complete the following

1. After completing your research, write a brief introduction to the film and its director and include a 2-3 sentences summary of the the main plot and conflict in the film and identifying the main character(s). Offer a brief biography of the director and how they fit within their historical and cultural context. (1 paragraph)

2. Review the Formalist, Realistic, and Classical films handout. Identify whether the film is best described as formalist, realistic, or classical. Justify your choice using the descriptions on the handout and evidence from the film. You must use specific details from the film to support you assertions. (1 paragraph)

3. Choose one scene from the film to analyze. Remember, a scene is a series of shots combined to represent a set of actions happening within the same time and place. You will choose to complete a mise-en-scene, movement, or sound analysis of your scene. Carefully review the section in Writing About Film you’ve chosen to guide your scene analysis. In your discussion, note how this scene fits within the film as whole. You must use specific details from the film to support you assertions and use film language where possible from the Film Analysis Guide. (1-2 paragraphs)

4. Conclude your discussion of the film by reflecting on both your viewing and critical review experience. What type of aesthetic experience did you have, Apollonian or Dionysian? What have you learned about film analysis by completing your analysis of this film? (1 short paragraph)