Movies Vs. Books

Movies vs. Books

Sure, it is a lot easier and less time consuming to watch a movie BUT does it REALLY do a book justice? Do books have a capability of providing depth and complexity that a movie just can’t provide? Are messages conveyed in a stronger way in movies? What happens with a movie takes a different direction than a book?

All of these questions- and more- will be explored in this assignment! Read the assignment directions below very carefully.

Part I: Pick the movie that corresponds with your book.

Movie options:

12 Years a Slave- Widdop’s DVD rated R

Unbroken- Widdop’s DVD rated PG-13

The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace- watch Fruitvale Station on Netflix streaming rated R

Boys in the Boat- The Boys of ’36 (stream on Youtube) n/r

Seabiscuit-Widdop’s DVD rated PG-13

Endurance- Widdop’s DVD n/r

The Perfect Storm-Widdop’s DVD rated PG-13

War- Restrepo- Widdop’s DVD rated R

In Cold Blood- Capote- Widdop’s DVD rated R

Better- watch either Escape Fire: The Flight to Rescue American Health Care OR Code Black on Netflix streaming n/r

The Blind Side: Widdop’s DVD rated PG-13

The logistics: Obviously these movies need to be shared across class periods- therefore they can’t go home with you. Meet with those who read the same book with you and work out a way to watch the movie during class. I can arrange for a watching space but you need to procure the watching device (laptop). Movie watching must be complete by May 12. You have class time on May 10, 11 and 12th.

Part II: Pick a central question to consider as you watch the movie. After finishing both the movie and book, write a one page analysis that answers your central question. You MUST include text evidence to support all claims. Some suggestions (you may also develop your own question) You have class time on May 15 to complete this assignment which is due on May 16:

• How does the portrayal of the main character differ between the movie and the book?
• How does the director use elements of filmmaking (see attached) to build the story. How might these elements compare to literary elements used by the author in the book?
• If watching a movie that differs slightly from the modern thriller you read, what similarities exist between the two stories?
• Did the movie take any “differing directions” than the book? Do you feel this choice affected the story at all?
• What aspects of the book would you have included in the movie?
• Is the overall message in the movie a stronger message than was conveyed in the book?

Please bring signed permission slip by May 9.

As a number of these films are rated R, I ask that you inform your parents of this assignment and have them sign for approval to watch the film. If they would prefer you not watch the film, no worries! I can provide you with an alternate assignment.

Yes, I give ______permission to watch ______.

I would prefer that ______not watch ______and complete an alternate assignment.