Movie – Cold Water (1986, produced by Noriko Ogami)
As anthropologists we must conduct fieldwork in order to gain an in-depth understanding
of our subjects. Oftentimes this involves going to foreign lands & cultures. As a result,
we might feel lost and out of place. In other words, we go through a process called
culture shock. In this assignment we want to learn about the feelings & emotions
individuals have when coming here for an extended period of time. Second, I want you to
tell me about an experience a friend or family member had when they went abroad for an
extended period of time. What kind of thoughts and emotions did they have?
Part 1: Cold Water film questions: 20 pts (3 pages)
First, provide a general introduction to the film and then review how the film describes
culture shock.
• Aside from a general introduction you must include definitions & stages as
described in the film
Second, review 5 of the generalizations made about the U.S. or U.S. society by
international students. In each of your reviews, make sure you provide a clear, descriptive
example from the film that clarifies each example and then explain whether you agree or
disagree by reviewing your own pertinent experiences. Be specific! You can go to
video.oakton.edu to revisit the movie.
• Generalization, specific example where this was illustrated in the film (who said it
and what happened) and do you agree or not? Why?
Part 2: Consultant Interviews: 30 pts (2 full pages not including the demographic
info)
The film focuses on culture shock and intercultural adjustment. Interview 2 consultants of
your choice who has experienced his or her own cultural adjustments. Provide a summary
of their experiences.
Before you begin to describe your consultant’s experience, providing the following
demographic information.
• Consultant ID (you do not need to give the person’s full name)
• Relationship to you
• Age
• Sex
• Occupation
• Ethnicity
• Nationality (citizenship)
• Religion
• Household income (You can offer ranges. If they fit within $0-18,000,
$18,000-33,000, $53,000-83,000, $83,000 & above or if they choose not to
respond that is ok too)