Ms. Marootian
Film Class 2015
Ethics in Film Unit
Overview: We will be studying several films in this unit that present
discussion rich ethical dilemmas. We will be writing an essay at culmination
of the unit to display our understanding of the films as well as our own
personal belief and convictions.
Part One: Content Development
1. Define ethics using an official source:
2. Rewrite the definition of ethics in your own words (according to your
understanding.
3. Using your definition of ethics: write a 2-3 sentence statement
reflecting on why it is important for kids to have a good understanding
of ethics.
Part Two: Content Application
1. With a partner (or solo) choose and view two “ethic display” clips
from the following website: http://movieclips.com/5h2Z-ethicstheme-videos/#p=1
2. Note there are 31 pages to choose
3. Fill out forms below:
Movie Clip #1: ________________________
o What is happening in the clip?
Ms. Marootian
Film Class 2015
o What ethical dilemma is presented?
o Do you agree or disagree with the choice made?
Movie Clip #2: ________________________
o What is happening in the clip?
o What ethical dilemma is presented?
o Do you agree or disagree with the choice made?
Films Viewed: (Subject to Change)
Abortion
 The Cider House Rules (1999)
 Ethical issues surrounding abortion and medical ethics
Animal Welfare
 Blackfish (2012)
 Documentary about society’s treatment of animals.
Euthanasia
 Million Dollar Baby (2004)
 Deals with gender equality and the ethics behind assisted suicide.
Genetic Engineering
Ms. Marootian
Film Class 2015
 My Sister's Keeper (2009)
 Genetics, "Designer babies", Saviour siblings, and Child vs. Parent
autonomy.
 Gattaca (1997)
 Deals with genetics and the high cost of seeking perfection.
Mental Illness
 Girl, Interrupted (1999)
 Deals with mental illness and the treatment of the mentally ill.
 Shutter Island (2010)
 Deals with reality, identity and mental illness.
Privacy
Minority report (2002)
Deals with bio-ethical issues including brain scanning, and also issues such
as privacy and freedom.
Racism
 Remember the Titans (2000)
 Deals with Issues of bigotry, tolerance, racism, respect,
responsibility, fairness and citizenship.
 American History X (1998)
 A classic movie about racism, hate, anger, and reconciliation.
Ms. Marootian
Film Class 2015
Tough Choices
 A Clockwork Orange (1971)
 Deals with the inherent values of the freedom of moral choice; and
the importance of aspiring to do what is right.
 Sophie's Choice (1982)
 This movie deals with choosing between the greater of two evils Situations that are so devastating; that a good choice is
impossible.
War/peace
 Saving Private Ryan (1998)
 Deals with military propaganda and the use of human beings as a
"means to an end".
 The Boy In The Stripped Pajamas (2008)
 Set during World War II, a story seen through the innocent eyes of
Bruno, the eight-year-old son of the commandant at a concentration
camp, whose forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side
of the camp fence has startling and unexpected consequences.