A straight male protagonist from the dominant ethnic group in the film’s country.

1. We have seen films this semester exemplify classic cinema, but also ones that challenge conventional techniques of storytelling in movies, for example through editing, narrative structure, camera work, characterization, or the like. Choose one or two films that exemplify a classic style and one or two that you believe are successful in the ways they adopt non-conventional techniques and explain. 2. Most of the films in the first half of the semester centered on a straight male protagonist from the dominant ethnic group in the film’s country. The second half of the semester, however, featured several films where this was not the case. Choose one pre-1960 film and one or two post-1960 films and consider ways they deal with identity. 3. One hope of this class is that it will affect the way you watch pictures more generally. Choose a couple of movies you have watched in the past few months that were not part of this course's syllabus and explain how this class has changed how you watched the movies, or how you reflected on them afterward, or something of the sort. In the course of explaining this, please reference one or two movies we watched in class (though you need not discuss them in great detail).

Sample Solution

Question 1: Classic vs. Non-Conventional Cinema

Classic Cinema:

Casablanca (1942): This film exemplifies classic Hollywood cinema with its clear narrative structure, iconic characters, and romantic plot. The film's use of lighting, camera angles, and music creates a timeless atmosphere that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Non-Conventional Cinema:

Pulp Fiction (1994): Tarantino's non-linear narrative, stylized violence, and quirky dialogue challenge traditional storytelling conventions. The film's fragmented timeline and nonlinear structure create a sense of disorientation and intrigue, keeping the audience engaged.
Memento (2000): Christopher Nolan's film employs a unique reverse chronology narrative structure, forcing the viewer to piece together the story alongside the protagonist. The fragmented narrative and unreliable narrator challenge conventional expectations of storytelling.

Question 2: Identity in Film

Pre-1960:

Casablanca (1942): While the film is centered around a white male protagonist, it explores themes of identity and belonging. Rick Blaine, the protagonist, is a complex character who grapples with his past and his desire to help others. The film also touches on the complexities of identity and nationality, particularly in the context of World War II.

Full Answer Section

Post-1960:

Parasite (2019): This South Korean film explores themes of class, poverty, and social inequality. The film's characters are complex and multifaceted, challenging traditional notions of identity and societal roles.
Moonlight (2016): This film delves into themes of sexuality, race, and identity. The protagonist's journey of self-discovery is both poignant and powerful, highlighting the challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Question 3: A Changed Perspective

Having watched a variety of films from different eras and cultures, I've become more attuned to the director's choices and the underlying messages of a film. For example, when watching the recent film "Everything Everywhere All At Once," I was struck by its non-linear narrative and its exploration of the multiverse. This reminded me of Christopher Nolan's films, such as "Inception" and "Tenet," which also play with time and reality.

Additionally, I've become more aware of the role of cinematography and sound design in creating a film's atmosphere. The use of specific camera angles, lighting, and music can significantly impact the viewer's emotional response. For instance, the haunting score in "The Shining" contributes to the film's unsettling and suspenseful tone.

By studying classic and contemporary films, I've gained a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking and the power of storytelling. I now approach films with a more critical eye, analyzing the director's choices and the film's underlying themes. This has enriched my viewing experience and allowed me to connect with films on a deeper level.

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