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American Life through Films, 2005.
A look at four different movies and how they explore family life in America.
1,830 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper summarizes and analyzes four movies, "Kramer vs Kramer," "Ordinary People," "American Beauty," and "In the Bedroom," and explains how these movies explore hidden issues and concerns of the American family that are relevant to the decade in which they were made.
From the Paper
"By the 1970's divorce was well under way to becoming a normal part of life for the American family, however, what was not apparent was how custodial rights were being battled out in the court system. In 1979 director Robert Benton provided a glimpse into this issue in "Kramer vs Kramer". Ted and Joanna Kramer are married with a young son, Billy. Ted is so busy struggling up the ladder in his career that he never noticed that his wife was unhappy until one day he comes home from work one day and finds Joanna with her bags packed announcing that she is leaving. Not only is she leaving to find herself, the person she was before she married, but she is leaving Billy behind. Through this entire scene Ted does not really hear what exactly she is saying and therefore of course does not take any of her words seriously."
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"The Simple Life", 2004.
An analysis of the acting and entertainment in the reality show, "The Simple Life," focusing on the 'reality' behind reality television shows.
1,460 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
In discussing the nature of the reality show, "The Simple Life," the paper explains that it is vital to understand how the show, as well as other reality television programs, actually depicts alternative forms of acting and entertainment rather than real depictions of real life by real people. The paper argues that the reality show, "The Simple Life," is a reflection of 'realistic' acting that intends, above everything else, to entertain people rather than give them insights about what real life is all about and how it is captured by the television cameras.
From the Paper
"The appeal of reality television shows began with the hit series "Survivor" in 2000, a program that features urban-living Americans trying to "outwit, outplay, and outlast" the other contestants in living life and 'surviving' in an island. Following its success in primetime television, a host of other reality shows were produced, which includes, among others, "Fear Factor" and "The Apprentice," dating games like the "Blind Date" and "Fifth Wheel," as well as real life glimpses in the lives of personalities like the "Newlyweds," "The Osbournes," and most recently, the hit show featuring rich heiresses Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton, "The Simple Life." Reality shows have changed the way programs are produced and conceptualized nowadays, since the audience that is, real people, take center-stage in assuming the role of a TV star, allowing cameras illustrate life as real people live it given a particular situation to live up to."
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Actor Boris Karloff, 2004.
This paper discusses the life of actor Boris Karloff.
1,720 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Boris Karloff, one of the most notable names in 20th century, cinematic horror, is best known for bringing Mary Shelly's "Frankenstein" monster to life in the 1931 black-and-white horror film by Universal Studios. The author points out that Karloff did not consider "type casting" to be a curse and thought himself fortunate that audiences and studios had recognized and appreciated his talent for certain parts. The paper lists other major films: "The Mask of Fu Manchu," which required extensive make-up and heavy dialogue; "The Raven," with Bela Lugosi playing another villain with serious deformities; "The Bride of Frankenstein," considered to be the best of the Frankenstein series; and "Son of Frankenstein," the final Frankenstein film starring Karloff as the Monster, although he would actually make appearances in later Frankenstein films.
From the Paper
"Boris Karloff was not the given name of the famous actor. Born in London, England, his given name was actually far more British than stage-friendly; William Henry Pratt was born on November 23, 1887. He was the youngest of eight children, and it was actually his older brothers that would raise him. His father actually died when he was a young infant. Karloff's father had been a public official in India, and the family expected that the child would follow a similar path and take the place of the father in the family. One of his older brothers, the longest surviving Sir John Pratt, was himself a diplomat. For his early school days, he attended Merchant Taylor's School at Uppingham, a prestigious institution. For higher education, he would attend London University, where he specialized in Chinese customs in the Consular Service program."
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?My Big Fat Greek Wedding?, 2004.
An analysis of the cultural differences in the film, ?My Big Fat Greek Wedding?
1,033 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 0 sources, $ 36.95
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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the film, "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" directed by Joel Zwick. Specifically, it discusses the differences between Greek and American culture that can lead to unhappiness and lack of self-esteem. The paper examines how the main character grows and manages to find love and happiness despite her Greek family.
From the Paper
"Another cultural difference in the film is the family. The Greek family is very large, loud, meddling, and sometimes obnoxious. They insist that their way is the only way, and do not understand Ian's vegetarianism any more than they understand tofu and organic beef. They are lusty, earthy, and opinionated, a far cry from Ian's family who does not fit in the Greek family's society any more than the Greeks fit in theirs. This is funny, but it is sad too, because both families eventually put up with each other, but do not truly respect each other, and that says something about Greek and American culture, and how accepting it is, ultimately, of different cultures and beliefs. This is shown subtly in the church, where Ian's side of the church has sparse attendance from a small family, while Toula's side is filled with boisterous relatives from everywhere."
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Michael Moore, 2005.
A discussion about the controversial opinions of American far-Left spokesperson and film maker, Michael Moore.
4,587 words (approx. 18.3 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 119.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at some of the controversial and shocking statements and publications that are attributed to left-wing director, Michael Moore. The writer argues that, although many people in America hold the same views as Michael Moore and may discuss them among themselves, there are very few, far left-wing spokespersons in America. The paper looks at some of his most popular films and questions whether they are true documentaries or simple propaganda for his political views.
From the Paper
"To consider this accusation let us use an example. FOX News?a clear right-wing mouthpiece?every hour of every day claims to be presenting America with a ?fair and balanced? account of the news. No honest person would ever believe that Fox News is unbiased. So, if we are to admit that FOX News is biased, are we then also forced to admit that what FOX News covers is not real news? No. Although FOX News may be very selective, and indeed biased in what news stories they choose to cover, it would be irrational to conclude that what they do cover is not the news. Similarly, just because Michael Moore chooses to reveal some facts in his films and not others, does not make it logical to conclude that his films are anything other than documentaries."
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"Macario", 2005.
Compares Roberto Galvadon?s 1960 film production about a man who encounters three apparitions to the Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm tale, ?Godfather Death.?
954 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper compares and contrasts the literary elements in Galvadon's movie, "Macario," and the Grimm tale, "Godfather Death". The paper looks at the similarities and differences in both stories' theme, structure, style, symbolism, and plot.
From the Paper
"Fairy tales offer rich imagery, symbolism, and archetypes on which longer, more complex works can be based. Roberto Galvadon?s 1960 film Macario is one of those works, an enchanting black-and-white Mexican production that shares several structural elements in common with the Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm tale ?Godfather Death.? In the movie and the fairy tale, a destitute man with a large family encounters three apparitions: God, the Devil, and Death. He ignores the first two on principle: the Devil because he is a trickster and God because he permits the rich to feed off the poor; but the man embraces Death as a friend because the Grim Reaper takes the lives of the rich and the poor. In return, Death offers the man a magical healing potion that restores life to the dying. In order to use it properly, however, the man must follow specific instructions."
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Comparison of Sci-Fi Movies, 2005.
A discussion of the impact of the older movie, "The War of the Worlds", on the modern movie, "Independence Day".
921 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
Two of the most popular science fiction movies over the course of the last five decades are "The War of the Worlds", circa 1953, and the 1996 blockbuster, "Independence Day". The writer explains that, although almost fifty years separates the two films, anyone who has seen both films becomes quite aware of the effect "The War of the Worlds" had on the creation of "Independence Day". This paper provides an overview of both movies and then discusses how the predecessor affected the latter.
From the Paper
"The War of the Worlds was an updated movie adaptation of H.G. Wells book of the same name. Heralded as one of the greatest science fiction film of the 1950s, The War of the Worlds won an Oscar for its amazing special effects (?The War?). Although divergent from Wells? book in many places, the movie still holds the same central message. Martians have come to take over Earth and humankind appears to be doomed. Sinister looking, bowed crescent-shaped alien craft float above the cities. One glowing green eye juts from the top of each craft, firing red sparks and destroying targets at will. Despite using an A-bomb, dropped by a Flying Wing, human weaponry has no effect on the Martian craft (?The War?)."
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"13 Days", 2004.
A review of the film, "13 Days," directed by Roger Donaldson.
2,648 words (approx. 10.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 79.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the power and peril of the American presidency in the film "13 Days" by director Roger Donaldson. The paper illustrates the urgency, suspense, and paralyzing chaos of the Cuban Missile Crisis. The paper contends that the movie demonstrates the best and worst of communication between individuals and groups and, in particular, the difficulties of bringing people to consensus when their views differ widely.
From the Paper
"Kenny O?Connell is Chief of Staff and Political Advisor for President John F. Kennedy. They have been friends for many years, and O?Connell serves as Kennedy?s political advisor. He often displays an authoritarian style as team leader. The events that unfold in this movie take place during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, when U-2 spy planes discover Soviet missiles that could easily hit the United States being installed in the U.S.S.R.?s ally, Cuba. Kenneth O?Connell, as portrayed in this movie, is shown to be a man with multiple communication styles that he adjusts from setting to setting. Much of the time he speaks in a very authoritarian way and with considerable finality, but when high-level decisions are being made, he listens to everyone with respect and does not issue orders. However, when it is part of his job to follow through and make sure those group decisions are followed, he does so efficiently and aggressively."
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"The Simpsons", 2004.
An analysis of the use of satire in the popular television show, "The Simpsons".
1,097 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes one of the longest-running cartoon shows on television today, "The Simpsons". The paper contends that "The Simpsons" has always operated on two levels, appealing to children as a fast-paced cartoon and to older audiences for its wit and satire. The paper describes how the show reflects various aspects of American life, including parenting, religion, and discrimination to help us see our own flaws and laugh at ourselves.
From the Paper
"Homer Simpsons is the device for delivering the most satiric comments on everything ranging from alcohol to children to law to religion. What makes this satire quite wholesome and hilarious is the lack of subtlety with which it is presented to the audience. Homer isn?t interested in pleasing anyone so he says what is on his mind and that takes the viewers by complete surprise, though may be no longer with everybody becoming familiar with the show?s incongruity. MacGregor maintains: ?It is Homer Simpson who drives the show?As a moving, ever expanding satire, he is at once the best and worst of American dadness. He is forever wanting the things he'll never have, scheming to get them and failing, his appetites and disappointments as classic as the central conflicts from which all great theater and literature derives.? (MacGregor 27)"
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"Night of the Living Dead", 2004.
An analysis of the final sequence of George Romero?s 1968 film, "Night of the Living Dead".
3,500 words (approx. 14.0 pages), 0 sources, $ 98.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how George Romero?s "Night of the Living Dead" (1968) is not only the single-most influential zombie movie of all time, it is also reputed to be one of the first movies to employee color-blind casting. In particular, it looks at how, though the entire movie was revolutionary for its time and genre, the final sequence in which the final main character (the black lead, Ben) is mistaken for a zombie and killed by his long-awaited rescuers is shocking and challenging even to modern film-goers. The sequence analyzed for five characteristics, including the plot significance of this segment, the implications of the sequence for the genre, the use of film technique to build and guide the horror, the use of coloration and lighting for narrative purposes, and the various additional methods of manipulating audience sympathies and responses.
From the Paper
"The plot of Night of the Living Dead is relatively straightforward. For some unknown reason, perhaps due to radiation from space, the dead are coming back to life animated by the desire to devour flesh. There are six significant living characters trapped in a single house, which belongs to none of them. The lead female Barbara, has come there fleeing from the zombies who ate her brother in a cemetery -- in the end her brother is the one who eats her, as she hesitates to run from him. Ben, the lead male who survives to the end, has come there after a series of misadventures on the road, and has learned a great deal about dealing with the zombies."
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Men in Film, 2005.
An example of the stereotypical manner in which men are portrayed in movies.
1,584 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that little research has been done about how men are portrayed in films. It looks at examples of the ?man?s man? as portrayed in film, television, and advertisements, with a consideration of how men are portrayed and the reasons for this portrayal.
From the Paper
"The ?Marlboro Man? is an early example of the above trend. A man of few words, he preferred to speak through his actions. And the message was always that he was strong, healthy and well built. He worked best alone. The characters normally portrayed by Vin Diesel share many of the Marlboro Man?s characteristics. He is a typical example of the ?action hero? type of man ? strong and rugged. The characters he portrays are men of few words, who prefer to demonstrate their ideals by means of action, like the Marlboro Man."
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The Effect of Media, 2004.
An analysis of the effects of the media on youth.
1,829 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the negative effects the media can have on children and adolescents. The paper reviews an article, "Adolescents and the Mass Media: From ?Leave It to Beaver? to ?Beverly Hills 90210'", written by Donald Roberts. The paper discusses the impact that violence and sex in the media has had on youth and stresses that too few studies have been conducted to specifically determine the correlation between content and consequent behavior.
From the Paper
"One of the most controversial subjects in the past decade has been whether or not the media, namely television and film, are having a negative effect on children. Although a number of studies have been conducted on this topic, the jury is still deliberating, since research results conflict due to the way the studies are conducted or because of the many different variables involved. In his article ?Adolescents and the Mass Media: From ?Leave It to Beaver? to ?Beverly Hills 90210,?? (1993) Donald Roberts discusses the impact that violence and sex in the media has had on youth and stresses that too few studies have been conducted to specifically determine the correlation between content and consequent behavior. Further, much of the research done is flawed or biased. Roberts does believe, however, that even if a small number of teens are being negatively impacted--and most likely this is true--it would pay to take some steps to change the situation."
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"American Beauty", 2004.
A review of the movie, "American Beauty", directed by Sam Mendes, with reference to Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
1,286 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, explaining his belief that human beings are motivated by unsatisfied needs and that certain lower needs must be satisfied before higher needs can be satisfied. The paper reviews Sam Mendes's movie, "American Beauty", describing it as a microscopic vignette of the American, white middle-class. The paper employs Maslow's theory of a hierarchy of needs to understand the underlying emotions of the film.
From the Paper
"Abraham Maslow established the theory of a hierarchy of needs, believing that human beings are motivated by unsatisfied needs, and that certain lower needs must be satisfied before higher needs can be satisfied (Maslow?s pp). Rather than studying the neurotic or mentally ill, Maslow studied exemplary people such as Albert Einstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Frederick Douglas to determine how they came to be successful (Maslow?s pp). Unlike Skinner and Freud, he believed that people are ?basically trustworthy, self-protecting, and self-governing?and that humans tend toward growth and love? (Maslow?s pp).
Maslow felt that although there is a continuous cycle of negativity, such as wars, murder, and deceit, he believed that violence is not what human nature is meant to be like, and occurs only because of and when human needs are thwarted (Maslow?s pp)."
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"And Then There Were None", 2005.
Analyzes the film, "And Then There Were None", directed by Rene Clair.
1,058 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the film and its specific value in sociological perspectives. The writer points out that it is an interesting mystery that, at first, seems to have little implication for the Asian-American Pacific Islander. This film may have much darker sociological and psychological overtones.
From the Paper
"And Then There Were None is a film adaptation of an Agatha Christie novel. The film opens with eight visitors riding in an open boat toward a deserted island where they have all been invited to spend the weekend. None of them knows each other, and none of them seems to have any connection to their unseen host, Mr. "U. N. Owen," or "unknown" to them all, even the two servants hired to oversee the guests during their stay. After their arrival, the butler plays a startling record that plays the nursery rhyme song "Ten Little Indians" with some violent alterations, and then accuses each of the ten people on the island of some form of murder. Then, the guests discover ten "Little Indian" figurines on the dining room table, just as the ten people begin to die. The first is the maid, wife of the butler, and when she dies, one of the ten figurines in the dining room mysteriously disappears."
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Tragedy and Comedy, 2004.
This paper discusses that the genres of drama, tragedy and comedy, are not always exclusive; many plays and films fit into both categories simultaneously.
2,510 words (approx. 10.0 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
This paper identifies one characteristic of comedy and two characteristics of tragedy and demonstrates their application to scenes from four plays considered some of the greatest tragedies ever penned, Shakespeare?s ?Oedipus Rex?, ?Macbeth?, ?Romeo and Juliet?, and ?Hamlet?; and from two films, the comedy, ?Pretty Woman?, and tragedy, ?The Path to War?. The author explains that one characteristic of comedy is the exaggerated or wry manner in which human folly or foolishness is underscored, and two characteristics of tragedy are the struggles or suffering of the protagonist over moral issues and the raising of questions about the meaning of human existence. The paper states that the ?Path to War? and ?Oedipus Rex? are pure tragedy based on circumstances and errors in judgment; whereas, ?Pretty Woman? is a film that is a comedy because its light heartedness and innocence completely overshadow its tragic characteristics.
From the Paper
"Perhaps the most appropriate starting point for demonstrating that a comedy and tragedy are not necessarily mutually exclusive, though they have long been considered the main divisions of drama is "Romeo and Juliet". Indeed, although "Romeo and Juliet" is hailed as one of the greatest love tragedies ever written, it, almost deceptively, appears to be a comedy for the most part. In fact, had Shakespeare not used the prologue to announce that the play was about star-crossed lovers; the audience may well have been completely deceived in expecting or hoping for a happy ending, particularly since the opening scene itself is a witty one that mocks human foolishness through a dialogue between Sampson and Gregory from the house of Capulets."
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