English 101 Semiotic Analysis of a Movie (100 points possible)
Final Draft Due for MW classes: October 5
Final Draft Due for TTH Classes: October 6
Format: 3-5 pages, 12pt font, Times New Roman, Double Spaced, and one inch margins with a proper Works Cited page.
Assignment: Choose a movie to analyze. We have addressed issues such as the “white messiah” narrative and subliminal messaging in film. Within such critiques there is a focus on the larger narrative but also certain archetypes as well. Take for instance, our discussion on the adaptation of the Joker in the Batman movies. All of these concepts are equally useful in interpreting the signs of American Film. Movies function largely as metaphors and are directly reflective of our society. Here are a few suggestions (although you are not limited to these):
1. Watch The Help or another film that elicits the “White Messiah” narrative. Explain how this archetype works within the film and the larger context of American Society.
2. Some people criticize a movie like Avatar and The Hunger Games because they are allegorical representations of American Capitalism and the damage it seems to cause. Respond to this criticism either using this movie or another like it. Cite specific scenes to support your argument.
3. Write your own analysis of The Dark Knight or The Dark Knight Rises. Make sure to analyze plot and character archetypes. Does the movie reinforce Big Brother? Does the movie try to highlight push back movements like the Occupy Movement? Terrorism?
4. Analyze films that utilize the “magical negro” character. What does the usage of such characters say about “Post-Racial America?” Utilize parts of Spike Lee’s argument to support your own argument.
5. Watch a Twilight film and challenge Eddo-Lodge’s interpretation of Bella Swan’s character. Is she a weak female character? Why or Why not? What does her character reinforce about gender codes? What does it challenge?
6. Watch a Hunger Games film and challenge Pollitt’s interpretation of Katniss Everdeen’s character. Is she a weak female character? Why or Why not? What does her character reinforce about gender codes? What does it challenge?
Source information: You must use credible sources in your analysis. Wikis should be avoided. Yes, this means Wikipedia is NOT a credible source-- neither are Shmoop, Cliff Notes, and Spark Notes. If you have questions as to what is deemed as a credible source—ASK. You must utilize four outside sources and no more than six. Thus, an MLA Works Cited page is required. Make sure you properly cite in-text and correctly format the WC page. Failure to do so will result in a 20% deduction in overall grade for the paper.