AMERICAN STUDIES MOVIE ASSIGNMENT
EXPLORE A VARIETY OF THEMES AND COMPONENTS OF OUR
COMMON MYTHOLOGY AS SHOWN THROUGH FILM
The intent of the assignment is to examine how our culture is being presented to the world through film.
How are writers and directors exposing American values, family struggles, gender roles, ethnic and class
conflict, nationalism, coming of age, etc.? In other words, how do these films begin to shape our national
reputation?
In a group of 4 or more, you will watch at least 5 of these films and discuss what each of them contributes
to the above issues. I encourage you to include a parent to see how someone older than you reacts to
them.
Each of you will research a film chosen by your group and looking for information regarding directors,
actors, production, and reception by the general public. If a specific historical event or figure is
referenced, research that/them as well. After your group watches the film, you will lead the discussion.
Each group member should take basic notes on what is discussed after each film in order to help them
with the single reflection paper that each group member will submit after watching all 6 of the films.
In December, each of you will write a 1000-1500 word paper referencing the films that you watched in
order to support a thesis that you will develop that pertains to how our country is portrayed. You must
be clear about your point of view and try to use quotes or specific scenes to support your argument. After
your conclusion, include a short paragraph where you discuss which film you enjoyed the most and which
one you enjoyed the least and why. Your praise or criticism of films should be specific and include items
such as dialogue, setting, acting, character development, visual effects, and others.
This project is designed to result in a rich, meaningful classroom discussion, but it is also supposed to be
fun. While December may seem a long way off, it will come sooner than you think. Get started early!
When you turn in your reflection in December, please include the following at the top of the front
page:
*List the movies watched (including the date that you watched each film).
*List the members in your group.
If you choose to a watch a television show, you do not have to watch an entire series or season. Choose
two or three episodes (most of the episodes will only be 20-30 minutes). The group member who is in
charge of researching the show should look to see which episodes of that show are the most famous,
memorable, or culturally significant.
Again, each group member will turn in one reflection paper (not one for each film) of 1000-1500 words
with a clear thesis and a body that will reference all of the films that you watched. You will include the
films watched (with dates) and list of your group members at the top of the first page. After your
conclusion, you will discuss which film you enjoyed most and which one you enjoyed least and why, with
specific references to these films.
If you have any questions whatsoever, see me!