Research Project: The Historical Movie Review
Objective:
Your job is to watch one film, then write a 1000-1500 word paper (roughly 4-6 pages). In your essay, explain how the movie helped you learn about a particular time or event from history. You will argue that film (as a medium) is either a good way to learn about history or not, and explain the reasons behind your thinking. Most of the films on the list are not trying for complete historical accuracy, but they set their stories in a historical environment. Choose your film from the list below. All films can be accessed for free via the SWANK Database (you can use this link, or it can be accessed from the Library webpage as well). Watch the film immediately; you will be focusing your research around it.
1. The Paper’s Purpose
You will investigate the way the movie depicts the historical period or topic by doing some research using sources. Is the movie making an attempt to be faithful to the historical evidence, or is it mostly fiction? Are the film characters attempting to portray real people, or are they fictional?
Finally, you will comment upon the film’s representations and tone. Is the viewer obviously supposed to be cheering for one side or character, knowing that they will triumph in the end? You are NOT writing a plot-summary of the movie! Do not summarize the plot.
2. Research
Using the Library’s electronic databases, you will find and read three separate articles (at least 800 words in length) to help you argue your thesis.
Your articles must be Peer Reviewed (Academic Journal) articles. Your articles do not have to reference the film directly, but they should be related to the time period, topic, or people involved.
You may not use Film Reviews.
At the conclusion of your paper, provide a list of “Works Cited.” These, as well as your
in-text citations, must be formatted in MLA Style citation.
You will be held accountable for academic honesty. If you commit plagiarism or otherwise copy another writer’s words, you will receive a Zero for this assignment, and will be referred to the Office of Academic Affairs for disciplinary action.
3. Style and Format
Do not use first-person (I, me, we); or second-person (you, your), and do not use slang.
Turn Page-numbering ON, and don’t forget your Works Cited page.
This work must have a compelling Title and Hook.
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Length: 1000-1500 words (roughly 4-6 pages)
Font: Times New Roman, Size 12
Double Spaced; Standard Margins
Submission: This paper and all its parts will be submitted through Turnitin.
Be sure to use parenthetical references as needed throughout your paper—not only when
quoting directly from a source but also when describing or paraphrasing a specific incident.
You must cite the film in the Works Cited page even if you do not quote the film in your
paper.
Oral Presentation: This project requires an oral presentation (5 points) with the use of a visual
aid. Further details will be distributed.
Reminder: This project is worth 25% of a student’s grade.
All films are free to view via the HVCC Library website.They are all found in the SWANK Digital Campus.You must access SWANK and the titles below through the HVCC Library website.
The Movie List (found on SWANK)
MOVIES!!
All the President’s Men
The Big Short Black
kklansman
Born on the 4th of July
Malcolm X
Hotel Rwanda
The Kite Runner
Lincoln Schindler’s V List
Selma
