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Hollywood and the Military, 2006.
An analysis of three Hollywood films and whether they have affected public opinion about military or foreign policy actions.
1,421 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, £ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how certain movies produced by Hollywood have influenced public opinion about U.S foreign policy. Specifically, the author looks at how three specific films have manufactured public support for U.S. military incursions: "Green Beret" (1968) about Vietnam, "Black Hawk Down" (2001) about Somalia and "Pearl Harbor" (2001) about World War II.
From the Paper
"The directness of the relationship is proportional to money the military establishment will outlay for a film, as well as personnel and hardware support. This arrangement does not always work out: several Vietnam movies were refused by the military establishment, including Apocalypse Now, yet were still commercially successful films. The timing and content of military propaganda films is important for achieving success. Foreign policy, defense objectives, and the domestic public mood must be correctly read. This needs close communication between Hollywood and the military establishment."
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"The Holy Ghost People?, 2005.
This paper describes Peter Adair's documentary film "The Holy Ghost People", which explores the mysterious culture of Appalachian snake-handlers.
2,105 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 0 sources, £ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Peter Adair's documentary film "The Holy Ghost People" is about people in a Pentecostal church in West Virginia who claim to receive the Holy Ghost as a source of power and happiness, and, when possessed by the Holy Ghost, their bodies jerk and they speak in unintelligible languages. The author points out that the main message, which Adair's cinematography is trying to convey, is that people can express their emotions without using words. The paper relates that the most telling shot in the entire documentary is the last one in which the camera focuses on the bloody cloth, which the man is using to wipe his hand thus showing the real danger, but the man, who was bitten by a poisonous snake, stays calm.
From the Paper
"One interesting aspect, for me, was that I couldn't understand some of what people either said or sang, partly because of their accents, partly because of the muffled sound quality. However, this added to the feeling of intrigue and made me focus more on the tone of the songs and voices and rely more on body language and other visual stimuli. The few shots of the area in West Virginia this documentary was shot in tells a lot about who these people are. It is barren, poor, and run down. These people are disenfranchised and suffering under poverty. Even the trees cannot bear leaves, life is so cold. This is the reality of the snake handling people."
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"The Godfather" and "The Sopranos", 2006.
A comparison between Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather" and David Chase's "The Sopranos".
2,210 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 0 sources, £ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper compares the main themes and characters of the popular television series "The Sopranos" and the famous film "The Godfather". The author explores the similarities and differences in their approach to religion, family, morality and humor. The paper also includes society's reactions to these two works. In conclusion, the author offers a personal opinion on the reason for the productions' successes.
From the Paper
"In assessing these two different approaches to the Mob, the question is not "Do the writers and producers 'use' religion?" but rather, it is obvious that religion plays a role in the real life of gangsters - particularly Italian ones. For instance, we do not see Hyman Roth (a prototype of the real-life Meyer Lansky) attend a synagogue. Yet, we see various scenes of interplay with the clergy, and attendance at baptisms, marriages and funerals within a church or cathedral- not in the U.S. and in Sicily. We cannot eliminate the influence of the church- whether we can consider it positive, neutral, or negative. Religion is there. It cannot be eliminated, even from fiction pretending to be real life."
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"Roger & Me", 2005.
This paper discusses the documentary film "Roger & Me" by Michael Moore, which chronicles the rise and fall of the American auto industry through the eyes of one of General Motor's company towns Flint, Michigan.
2,300 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, £ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, unlike most documentary films, Michael Moore in his film "Roger & Me" uses irony, satire, dry wit and black humor to make his point. He maintains the idea of a documentary by showing real life, which he intersperses with almost ludicrous situations and quotations by those being interviewed. The author points out that Michael Moore, the son of an autoworker, who video-taped the documentary himself, created the "plot" by which Moore attempts to bring General Motor's Chairman of the Board, Roger Smith, to Flint so that he can see firsthand the devastation to people's lives caused by the plant shutdowns. The paper relates that, although the film is biased against General Motors, the film was effective in illustrating Flint's political mentality by showing the futile attempt of the city to throw money at a problem when they haven't a clue as to what to do.
From the Paper
"Beyond that, as Michael Moore states at the beginning of the movie, success is escaping Flint. The lack of a timeline also leaves a question in the determination of the movie's effectiveness. The movie covers several years of time and it is difficult to follow the sequence of events or the time period through which they unfolded. It should have been obvious real soon that GM was not going to reopen the plants, nor assist with any type of transfers or workplace assimilation for the workers from the assembly floor. The political structure of the city must have existed in the clouds, because they seemed to not any idea either as to what could be done. Throwing millions of dollars into a tourism market that did not exist was a waste that should have been foreseen. The opinion voiced by the affluent and the celebrities that the people should "so something" shows a complete lack of empathy for the people involved."
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"Shaft", 2006.
Analyzes the cultural popularity of this 1971 movie directed by Gordon Parks.
1,230 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 4 sources, APA, £ 28.95
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Abstract
In 1971, a new type of movie hero appeared on the screen. "Shaft" was the first Hollywood production that capitalized on a growing black audience who had demonstrated their box office clout with a strong response to Van Peebles's "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song". The paper questions whether the main character, John Shaft, was just another iteration of the 'big, bad black buck' or whether he constituted a new black persona.
From the Paper
"To understand the cultural context of a Black superhero, it's important to appreciate the political climate of the time. Black Power and Black Nationalism were political movements expressing a new racial consciousness among blacks in the United States in the late 1960s. Black Power represented both a logical outcome of the decade's civil rights movement and an impatient reaction to persisting racism that continued to resist the efforts of black activists during the early 1960s. Black Power was influential mainly in the late 1960s. Black Power meant different things to different people."
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"The Scent of a Woman", 2006.
An analysis of the film, "The Scent of a Woman", starring Al Pacino and Chris O'Donnel.
1,485 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 0 sources, £ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper summarizes and analyzes the storyline and the main characters in the film "The Scent of a Woman". The paper explains that the film, while initially appearing as if it dehumanizes the disabled Slade (played by Al Pacino), in the end the film actually objectifies and humanizes Slade.
From the Paper
"Charlie Simms (Chris O'Donnell) is a scholarship student at a prestigious preparatory school. In order to earn money for a plane ticket home at Christmas break, Charlie answers a listing posted on the school' s job board. It is an appealing position: care for a family member over the Thanksgiving weekend. Unfortunately, that family member turns out to be Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade (Al Pacino), who is angry, often unkind, and even more often self- destructive. He is also blind. This is where Slade seems to be dehumanized. He appears to be saying the blind are angry and bitter. Howver, it is also obvious he is depressed, and that depression makes him seem human. It may not be politically correct to say so, but a disability, especially to a man like Lt. Col. Slade, can cause depression. This is not dehumanizing, but realistic. It is not saying all disabled people are depressed, it just acknowledges depression exists."
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Freud and Bandura "Analyze This", 2006.
A modern take on Sigmund Freud and Albert Bandura's differing theories of behavioral patterns. The author uses their beliefs to examine the main character in the movie "Analyze This".
889 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 0 sources, £ 21.95
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Abstract
The author seeks to show how Sigmund Freud's personality theory and Albert Bandura's competing theory can help shed light on contemporary theater, including the 1999 film "Analyze This", about Paul Vitti, a mob figure who experiences guilt over "whacking" his enemies. The writer believes that while Freud would contend that Paul Vitti's ID and ego have taken over his life, Bandura would insist that the internal and external are heavily interrelated, and inextricable from one another.
From the Paper
"Freud would remark that Paul Vitti's id and ego have taken over, and his superego is dormant. His actions are largely, if not completely, devoid of ethical considerations. Murder, beatings and extortion are part of Paul Vitti's day. However, the more sympathetic Bandura would offer that Paul Vitti's behavior is learned, since as mob boss, we infer that he grew up with the mob."
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"Girl Interrupted", 2005.
This paper discusses the issues of art and reality in the mental health film "Girl Interrupted", based on the book by Susanna Kaysen and directed by James Mangold.
2,070 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 0 sources, £ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, from a reality point of view, "Girl Interrupted" is true in the sense of not making the mentally-ill post-adolescent girl a babbling idiot, even though there are some scenes of screaming and tantrums. The author points out that the "art" of the film is seen in the lighting and camera placement, which sets the mood and an outstanding "supporting" performance by Vanessa Redgrave, as the head doctor of the mental hospital. The paper concludes that there are moments of starkness and quiet subtlety in this film, which not only wakes it "watchable" but also makes one want to see it again to catch some nuance that may have been missed the first time.
From the Paper
"Art, of course, is always in the eye of the beholder. But, "Girl Interrupted" presents Art (with a capital A) to an audience for whom the art of cinematography and all the technical aspects of it, mean relatively little. In this film, the intended audience can be caught up in the emotions, clearly visible with a lot of very tough close-ups, and, finally, how it is possible to come to terms with oneself and go on into life, even if it is not "normal" according to society. It is also a strength of the movie that it is not preachy and that the "adult" characters are really only a sort of signpost on the way to potential recovery."
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"West Side Story", 2006.
An discussion of the social impact of the 1961 movie "West Side Story".
2,301 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, £ 49.95
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Abstract
By discussing the social and economic situation in America in the late 1950s and early 1960s, this paper explores how "West Side Story" impacted American society. The paper explains how the class structure and economic situation of the movie are a clear indication of the America of the time. The paper explains that because the movie rang so close to home for so many people, it was one of the most popular movies of all times.
From the Paper
"Thus, whether one agrees or disagrees with the feminist viewpoints of the latter reviewer, the positive review of the work "West Side Story," stands in stark contrast to the negative reviews of the two male reviewers. Furthermore, her review is much more in line with the reviews of both the Broadway play and the movie adaptation of the story at the time of its release. And, these reviews, both old and new emphasize the entertainment value of the movie and discount heavily any truly significant tie in with social, cultural, or political views modern day teachers attempt to force upon this magnificent work of art."
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?Mr. Deeds Goes to Town? and ?When Harry Met Sally?, 2006.
A review and comparison of the movies "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" and "When Harry Met Sally".
1,950 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 0 sources, £ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews the 1936 film "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" and the 1989 movie "When Harry Met Sally", examining their historical, contextual and social significance. As the author says, the classic film and the contemporary blockbuster may appear to have little in common. However, the paper shows that both movies relate to feelings of worthlessness that result from the inability to fulfill societal expectations and adhere to cultural norms during particular eras in history.
From the Paper
"In the time of The Great Depression, when "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" was released, men spiraled into despair, some to the point of committing suicide, because the stock market crash left them unable to fulfill their historical role as a family provider. Comparably, in the modern age of "When Harry Met Sally" both men and women often feel worthless and dejected because they are unable to fulfill their contemporary role as spouse/parent/successful career-person. In both cases, these issues are presented through characters that embody these doleful emotions in a way that anyone who has ever experienced them can soulfully relate."
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History in "Daughters of the Dust", 2006.
A summary and analysis of the film "Daughters of the Dust".
940 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 23.95
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Abstract
This paper describes this film about black families that have lived in virtual isolation for generations on a small, coastal island of the coast of Carolina called Edo Island. The paper explains that the film, "Daughters of the Dust", examines how memory keeps the lessons of the past alive and provides a sense of continuity and community for the family.
From the Paper
"The time frame is revealed through the clothing worn by both men and women, and there is reference in the dialogue about Theodore Roosevelt. At the movie's opening the date is specified as 1902, but the story is not linear and is told in flashback, and it is necessary to reinforce the time frame visually as well as verbally."
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Regulation and Censorship in the Film Industry, 2006.
Examines the history of regulation and censorship of the film industry in America and the reasons many in society wanted the industry regulated.
5,107 words (approx. 20.4 pages), 11 sources, MLA, £ 88.95
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Abstract
Through an examination of the history of film in America, this paper looks at the censorship and regulation of the film industry and argues that the need for regulation was forced upon the industry (and still is, in a way) for no other reason than that conservative elements of America felt that what the average American could see should be censored. The paper further argues that this regulation was not merely to prevent bawdiness, lewdness, or unsuitable physical actions that stimulated sexual feelings, but also to regulate the politicization of the movies.
From the Paper
"Following the end of the War, while many film makers now turned to a rather "new" sophistication, there was also a very serious anti-Communist note in some movies. While the real "Red Scare" occurred in the 1950s, in 1919, for example, there was real concern that the newly Communist Russia might actually invade the U.S. "Conservative films such as The New Moon (1919) disparaged communists and communism with scenes of perfidious Bolshevik officers attacking vulnerable young women....In The Penalty...audiences saw 10,00 disgruntled foreign workers, armed with rifles and pistols, waiting to open fire on police and take over the city of San Francisco." (Ross 136). Politicians applauded these films, even though they often misrepresented actual events. This included several truly anti-Semitic films, which, under extreme political pressure, were forced to change character names and some dialogue. "Pressure from the Yiddish press and Governor Al Smith forced the producers of The Volcano to alter its blatantly anti-Semitic plot. The hero's name was changed from Garland to Nathan Levison and the hook-nosed villain was given the line: 'I am not Jew. I am a Bolshevik.!'" (Ross 141)."
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"The Good Woman of Bangkok", 2006.
A detailed analysis of the 1991 Dennis O'Rourke film "The Good Woman of Bangkok".
3,900 words (approx. 15.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, £ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the controversial film "The Good Woman of Bangkok", directed by Dennis O'Rourke. Most of the reviews of the film were negative, which the author explains is understandable given the controversial subject matter of the film. In the film, O'Rourke plays a "fictional" filmmaker who comes to Bangkok after his divorce, and then sets out to have sex -- and film it -- with one of the prostitutes who cater to the foreign market. The paper investigates the motivations and actions of the characters, and then considers the various reviews and public responses to this movie. The author also attempts to understand O'Rourke's intention in directing the film and to present his subject honestly.
From the Paper
"The first major problem with the presentation of the prostitute Aoi is the "reward" she is being offered for her appearance in the film. The filmmaker offers to buy her a rice farm. This might be seen as just another act of prostitution. Aoi gives the filmmaker what he wants in exchange for compensation. This, along with the documentary conventions of nights with a hand-held camera in bars and the attempted elicitation of the cool and ambiguous Aoi, contributes to an effect of what Cynthia Fuchs (2002) calls the film's "lumpy moralizing". Fuchs continues her harsh judment of the film by claiming that the filmmaker used his film and his stated purpose for the film simply as a screen for gratuitous sex."
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"Field of Dreams", 2006.
A review of Phil Alden Robinson's film, "Field of dreams".
1,735 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 0 sources, £ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper gives an analysis of how the various characters in the movie "Field of Dreams", view reality, dreams and life. It also addresses the overall philosophical statement in the film. In conclusion it explores the strengths and weaknesses of the fore-mentioned statement.
From the Paper
"Ray and Annie's daughter, Karen, fully embraces her fathers dream, representing the innocence of a child's ability to see no real demarcation line between dream and reality, between dream and life. To Karen, everything is real. As a counterweight Annie's brother Mark, and to a lesser extent her mother and sister-in-law, are the empirical and jaded realists, to whom life holds no place for dream, probably not even in sleep. While Mark laughs at Ray's dream and tries to assimilate him back into the mainstream, Karen leads Ray to his ghosts - she is the first to see shoeless Joe Jackson, guiding her father to his manifestation."
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