FILM JOURNAL ASSIGNMENT
Throughout the first quarter, you will have to keep a growing journal of film responses. This journal is meant to be a collection of judgments, criticisms, and classifications of the films you cover. The skills we are working on are:
þ Applying the genre and subgenre characteristics we are studying as a group.
þ Beginning to practice film analysis instead of film response.
þ Developing personal voice and style through informal writing.
þ Exposure to texts and experiences outside of your “norm” or comfort zone.
Each film journal entry should be saved to your Mystery & Horror folder or e-mailed to me by the posted due date. Traditionally we will try to tackle a journal entry once a week, but I don’t want them to become excessive homework, so we will test it out as we go.
In each journal entry please do the following:
1. Provide the title of the film and the year of production.
2. Write up a basic synopsis of the film that provides needed detail without giving away any spoiler details.
3. Write a paragraph (maybe two) that explains how you would classify this film in terms of genre and subgenre. Try to explain what “type” of movie it was based upon the details of the film.
4. Write up a criticism of the film that provides your reaction, analysis and judgment. Try to explain to others why you have these positive or negative views so that others will know if the movie will fit their expectations. Your negative criticism—if it is explained properly—could be the exact reason another person thinks they would like the film.
***Polish your writing and pay attention to your voice (how you formulate sentences and add attitude) in order to receive credit for these assignments.
CHECK MY WEBSITE REGULARLY FOR FILM JOURNAL DUE DATES—I MAY FORGET TO MENTION THE NEXT SUBMISSION DATE IN CLASS!!!