Hollywood and History

A critical analysis of Historically-based movies

Over the years, Hollywood filmmakers have produced a fairly large number of movies based on either specific historic events or a particular time period in history. It is safe to assume that some filmmakers have been more historically accurate in their portrayal of the particular events and/or period of history included in their films than others have been. It is also safe to assume that the great majority of these kinds of movies have been produced to convey some underlying message or theme to the movie-going public.

Students can earn bonus points (5 for Honors, 10 for O.L.) added to their unit tests by viewing the film and completing a Critical Analysis Worksheet for each movie. Use discretion when deciding which movies you may wish to view as they have different ratings. If you know of a historical film that you would like to watch and do not see it on the list below, you must get approval from Mrs. Etter before moving forward.

Any plagiarism on extra credit will result in losing the privilege to earn any extra credit for the semester.

Unit 1: Colonial AmericaUnits 3: Expansion and Reform

1492—The Conquest of Paradise (1992)Tripoli (1950)

The Broken Chain (1993Buccaneer(1958)

Last of the Mohicans (1992)Amistad (1997)

Drums Along the Mohawk (1939)A Woman Called Moses(1978)

The Crucible (1996)Uncle Tom’s Cabin (1987)

The Scarlet Letter (1995)The Alamo (1960 or 2004)

Unit 2: Creating the AmericanRepublic4: Civil War and Reconstruction

April Morning (1988)Gods and Generals (2003)

The Crossing (2000)Gettysburg (1993)

The Patriot (2000)Gangs of New York (2002)

1776—The MusicalGone With the Wind (1939)

Andersonville (1996)

Glory (1989)

Birth of a Nation (1915)

Lincoln (2012)

Unit 5: Industrialization of the United States

Hard Times (1994)Dances with Wolves (1990)Sitting Bull (1954)

The Great Sioux Massacre (1965)Crazy Horse (1996)

Critical Analysis Worksheet

Answer the following questions thoroughly. All analysis information must be typed for credit.

  1. What is the title of the film reviewed?
  2. What historical period or event is the movie based on?
  3. What underlying theme (s) or message did the filmmakers intend to convey in this movie?
  4. How did the filmmakers attempt to portray this theme or message?
  5. Write a synopsis of the movie, including any personal observations or reactions. (1/2 to 1 page)
  6. Comment on the historical accuracy of the film. (requires research) In your opinion, how accurate were the filmmakers in portraying the actual events or persons represented in the movie? (For support, give at least 2 specific examples of historical accuracies AND inaccuracies in the film).
  7. Would you recommend this film to another HISTORY student? Explain why or why not? How did this film enhance your understanding of the time period being studied? (1/2 to 1 page)