Watch the short film Life Lessons (Martin Scorsese, 1989), posted on Blackboard.
Write an analytical essay in which you will make a detailed analysis of the film,
following the guidelines discussed in our last session.
Follow these instructions in writing your essay:
1. In the first paragraph, identify the short naming the director and year of
production in parenthesis and name the characters, writing the actors names
in parenthesis. The cast is listed on the second page. Give a short summary
of the shorts storyline, no longer than three sentences. State the shorts
theme(s) and message, and mention three of the five film language elements
you will analyze to prove your thesis of the shorts message.
2. Write three body paragraphs, one for each different film element you
will be discussing (i.e. narrative, cinematography, mise-en-scne,
editing, sound). Each paragraph should focus on a single film element and
should begin with a clear, simple topic sentence. Each paragraph should
explain how that particular element of film language is used to create
meaning, express ideas, and convey information to the audience. Keep your
thesis in mind. What character traits, emotions, relationships, and/or themes
are being expressed?
Be sure to give specific examples from scenes in the short and to explain
how that particular example conveys meaning to the viewer. Remember to
employ proper film terminology to describe the techniques onscreen (i.e.,
names for camera distances, movements, and angles, editing concepts, sound
techniques, etc.).
3. Write a conclusion paragraph, in which you will re-state your thesis of the
shorts theme(s) and message with a recoup of the ideas expressed in your
body paragraphs.
Remember to be very specific and detailed in your description and analysis of the
short. Refer to the moments, actions and film language techniques used very
clearly, expressing your thoughts and feedback as to how they express dramatic
meaning. Your essay should be between 3-5 pages long.
Life Lessons (Martin Scorsese, 1989)
Cast of Characters:
Lionel Dobie (Nick Nolte)
Paulette (Rosanna Arquette)
Phillip Fowler (Patrick ONeal)
Gregory Stark (Steve Buscemi)
Ruben Toro (Jesse Borrego)
Paulettes friend (Ileana Douglas)
Wine Server at Opening (Brigitte Bako)
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