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"The Neverending Story", 2007.
A review of the successful film "The Neverending Story" by Wolfgang Petersen and Brian Johnson.
3,410 words (approx. 13.6 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 120.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses Wolfgang Petersen's 1984 film "The Neverending Story" or "Die Unendliche Geschichte." The paper explains that the greatness of "The Neverending Story" is credited to Petersen's ability to tell a story and guide the viewer through the emotions of the characters. The paper also lauds the film's special effects creator, Brian Johnson, who supplied the appearance of the characters and effects that not only gave the film its fantasy world, but also supplied its sense of wonder. The paper relates how it was the combination of the talents of these two men that made the film the classic it is today.
From the Paper
"Wolfgang Petersen's 1984 film The Neverending Story or Die Unendliche Geschichte was based loosely on the fantasy novel by Michael Ende. The movie which provides the viewer with a plethora of special effects deviates greatly from the book, yet it is entertaining and a bit of cinema history in itself. The movie brought together two well-known and respected talents in the film industry. Petersen both co-wrote the screenplay and directed this work, but much of what he envisioned was made possible through the supervision of special effects coordinator Brian Johnson."
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'Grumpier Old Men', 2006.
A review of the movie 'Grumpier Old Men', focusing primarily on issues relating to Alzheimer's disease.
2,607 words (approx. 10.4 pages), 13 sources, MLA, AU$ 97.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the movie 'Grumpier Old Men' focusing specifically on the character Max. The paper discusses how Max exhibits symptoms of depression, dementia, alcoholism and an unhealthy diet. The paper then goes on to discuss Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, which is prevalent in the elderly.
From the Paper
"Alcohol addiction occurs gradually as drinking alcohol alters the balance of some chemicals in the brain, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which inhibits impulsiveness, and glutamate, which makes the nervous system excited. Alcohol raises the levels of dopamine in the brain, which makes one feel good and in a pleasant state. Long-term consumption of alcohol can deplete or increase the levels of some chemicals, causing the body to crave alcohol to get back those good feelings or to avoid the negative ones. Low-self esteem or depression may makes one more likely to abuse alcohol. Having a friend who drinks regularly may promote excessive drinking. It is difficult to distance oneself from "enablers" or at least from their drinking habits (Mayo. 2006)."
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"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", 2007.
An analysis of the comments by viewers and critics regarding the film, "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," directed by Ang Lee.
1,654 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 66.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the foreign-language film, "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," directed by Ang Lee. The paper attempts to provide insight into the impact on Western viewers regarding views on Chinese culture by discussing the themes in this film. It describes some of the positive and negative reviews of the film. The paper concludes that the main concern about the movie "Crouching Tiger," especially by the Chinese viewers and critics, is that it does not portray China's culture and values, but rather the intercultural viewpoint of the director, Lee.
From the Paper
"The differences by the students shows, says Zhu (2002) that someone's tacit knowledge of cultural values can persist and be influential in character judgment. The Western culture highly values individualism and the pursuit of happiness, the Chinese instead values collectivism and morality over individualism. It is considered morally inappropriate for a person's pursuit of happiness to occur at the expense of others. While all subjects praised the women's qualities of independence, strength, and strong will, they have different views of Jen. Most American subjects perceived Jen as a free individual, but most of the Chinese audiences criticized her as overly cunning and morally corrupt from a Confucian point of view. However, most Americans found the character Sulian lackluster, since she hesitates to pursue personal happiness, but most Chinese subjects saw her as a well-rounded character who, unlike Jen, is mature and noble enough to control her feelings."
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Handicapped Characters in Contemporary Fiction, 2007.
This paper studies the effect that a handicap has on the development of the disabled characters in contemporary fiction.
1,618 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 65.95
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Abstract
In this article, the development of the characters with handicaps in works of fiction is analyzed and attention is paid to how much these particular characters have been influenced by the disabilities that they have. Whether these characters have been affected in a positive or negative way is also a point of consideration. The writer notes that unfortunately, it appears that there has not been that much attention paid to handicapped or disabled characters within the realm of contemporary fiction, but there are more characters with disabilities than is first realized. The writer maintains that the idea that more handicaps and limitations are appearing in fiction today is actually very promising, because it shows that there is more recognition of the fact that these problems do exist within society and they should be recognized and addressed.
From the Paper
"It does not appear that a study on this issue has been performed in the past, which is both good and bad, and is discussed within the confines of the methodology. Here, however, it is important to address the literature that is available and the information that it provides. From Tom Hanks' portrayal of Forrest Gump in the movie of the same name to the wheelchair-bound policeman on Cartoon Network's animated show 'Family Guy,' handicapped people, with both mental and physical impairments, are showing up in various works of fiction. However, it is not just whether they appear that is important, but how they are portrayed and whether they evolve throughout the course of the fiction, or whether they simple remain the same types of background characters that they often are in the beginning."
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Why Marriages Fail, 2006.
A review of the movie, 'Notting Hill'.
1,033 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the film 'Notting Hill' directed by Roger Mitchell. Specifically, the paper discusses whether Anna and William will have a successful future together. According to the paper, this film, about a romance between a timid English bookseller and a world-famous Hollywood star, is a romantic comedy with a happily ever after ending.
From the Paper
"The fact that Williams worships Anna is obvious throughout the film, and this is another problem with the longevity of their relationship. His friend Max is right when he says, "Let's face facts. This was always a no-go situation. Anna's a goddess and you know what happens to mortals who get involved with the gods" (Notting Hill). Indeed, Anna is somewhat of a modern goddess, and it is hard to figure out why she would settle for a "mere mortal." This dooms their relationship for a number of reasons. First, William has her on a pedestal, and no one can live up to that pressure day after day, year after year. Eventually she will fall off the pedestal, and then she may not be as appealing to him. As author Roiphe notes, "Those euphoric, grand feelings that accompany romantic love are really self-delusions, self-hypnotic dreams that enable us to forge a relationship. Real life, failure at work, disappointments, exhaustion, bad smells, band colds and hard times all puncture the dream" (Roiphe). Because Anna is such a well-known star, William has expectations about her even before he meets her. She is larger than life, and so, he has even more euphoric feelings about her. As they sleep together, he is overwhelmed. He says, "It still strikes me as, well, surreal, that I'm allowed to see you naked" (Notting Hill). That may be well and good for early romance, but if he still worships her like this after marriage, it could be very bad for the marriage. She does not worship him, she simply is attracted to him, and so the attraction is lopsided and uneven. If he does not live up to her standards, she may leave, while he will be disillusioned and devastated. A true relationship should be equal, she is too much of a star to be his equal, and even he acknowledges that."
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Film Production, 2006.
A review of an article by Erwin Panofsky in the publication "Style and Medium in the Motion Pictures".
1,654 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 66.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the article written by Erwin Panofsky in the publication, "Style and Medium in the Motion Pictures". According to the paper, Panofsky writes that filmmakers could achieve true art by using techniques to both create and comment on the meaning involved.
From the Paper
"In no way can this be seen as simply a recording of reality, for it is not reality at all. It cannot be described in theatrical terms, for the way the world changes in the film could never be duplicated on stage. The larger plot might be seen in theatrical terms, with the young man falsely accused and his girl friend learning the truth and clearing him, but the film is more than a simple statement of lot and makes full use of the unique elements in the form to make this a film in the full sense and true art rather than borrowed art."
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Assimilation, 2007.
A comparison of the experiences of the protagonists in the book "Pocho," by Jose Antonio Villarreal and the film "My Family," directed by Gregory Nava.
1,315 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the book "Pocho," by Jose Antonio Villarreal and the film "My Family," directed by Gregory Nava. Specifically, it discusses the process of assimilation into American life that the protagonist in the book undergoes and compares it with the assimilation of the character of "Paco" (the narrator) in the film. The paper discusses the similarities and differences between these two characters and their experiences.
From the Paper
"The book ends with many questions, and the only certainty is that Richard will not come back to Santa Clara. Perhaps he does not survive the war. Paco did, and became a writer as he dreamed he would. The reader has to hope Richard survives too, because he has a voice for his people that should be heard. It is interesting that both men enlisted to fight for America, making them even more American in their souls. They fought for their country because of patriotism, love, and many other complex reasons. It is what young American men did during World War II. These men, despite their upbringing and heritage, were true Americans, and they both show it in their need to defend their country during times of trouble."
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'Vampyr', 2007.
This paper provides a critical review of Carl T. Dreyer's motion picture production, "Vampyr".
1,922 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 76.95
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Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the 1932 production, Vampyr, including an analysis of the influence of German expressionism on the work. In addition, this paper provides an examination of Dreyer's usage of techniques such as minimal dialogue and plot, and innovative light and shadow to maintain the feeling of an "art film" throughout. Further, a discussion of the intent of psychological disturbance possibly inspired by Gothic ghost stories and an assessment of the underlying forbidden themes of sexuality is followed by a summary of the research in the conclusion.
Outline:
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The manner in which the horror elements are presented in films also reflects the changing styles by which the unspeakable is represented. For instance, Andrew reports that while Hollywood in the classical era of the 1930s and 1940s primarily relied on makeup and model work to depict monsters incarnating whatever horror the film could evoke, the European cinema of the 1920s frequently used other elements such as camera movement and optical effects as used by Carl T. Dreyer in his 1932 production of "Vampyr". Unlike many of the other permutations that would grace the nation's movie screens in the years to come, though, Dreyer's "Vampyr" was not based on Bram Stoker's character, "Dracula," but was rather inspired by "Carmilla," as discussed further below."
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"Why Marriages Fail", 2007.
An analysis of Anne Roiphe's essay "Why marriages Fail" and the the relationship of the couples in the movie "Notting Hill".
891 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a case study of the couple in the film "Notting Hill", William and Anna, and attempts to analyze whether they will have a successful marriage. The paper focuses on Anne Roiphe's essay "Why marriages Fail" and provides a contextual analysis of the couples in the movie "Notting Hill," directed by Roger Michell, to provide a better insight into the intricacies involved in relationships.
Table of Contents:
Thesis
Introduction
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Most relationships tend to burn out after the initial few months when the attractions that blinded them quickly fades out. In any relationship there would be frictions and problem situations that arise out of nowhere. As Roiphe says the over dependency for intimacy and care on the part of one of the partners may weigh too much on the other partner. For relationships to succeed couples must strike a balance between closeness and individuality. This is only possible if the partners exhibit understanding and are willing to show some sacrifice. William's character shows composure, integrity and commitment. Anna, for her part, though a little quick to react and less composed, (as most famous people are) is still a sensitive woman who respects others feelings and who is in search of true love. Watching the movie one gets the feeling that Anna and William love each other truly and complement each other nicely, and so the relationship should withstand the test of time."
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"Iron Jawed Angels", 2007.
A comparison of the views expressed in the film "Iron Jawed Angels," directed by Katja von Garnier, with Martin Luther King, Jr.'s views in "Three Types of Resistance to Oppression."
959 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the film "Iron Jawed Angels," directed by Katja von Garnier, which deals with oppression and social fighting. The paper relates the film to Martin Luther King, Jr.'s discussions on oppression. It particularly focuses on his views expressed in his essay "Three Types of Resistance to Oppression," in which he preached non violent resistance as a means of fighting oppression and achieving social goals.
From the Paper
"The second way to resist oppression listed by Martin Luther King in his essay is the violent way, a way he disapproves of and a way against which he speaks. "A second way that oppressed people sometimes deal with oppression is to resort to physical violence and corroding hatred. Violence often brings about momentary results. Nations have frequently won their independence in battle. But in spite of temporary victories, violence never brings permanent peace. It solves no social problem; it merely creates new and more complicated ones. " This type of resistance is the most striking of all, and the easiest to recognize in real life, and also in this film. It is a type of resistance that both the oppressed and the oppressor sometimes use. A march of protest sometimes turns violent, and by doing so it serves no goal and brings no deliverance to the suffering. In the film, the protagonists' protest takes the form of a hunger strike, earning them the nickname "iron jawed angels", and this can be considered as the most violent way they could protest. The oppressors' violence is in the form of the forced imprisonment on unjust causes, and the way in which they forced the women to eat."
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'The Seven Samurai' & 'The Magnificent Seven', 2006.
A comparison between the films 'The Seven Samurai' and 'The Magnificent Seven'.
1,210 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at Akira Kurosawa's film, 'The Seven Samurai' and John Sturges' film, 'The Magnificent Seven'. According to the paper, 'The Magnificent Seven' is an American adaptation of the Japanese film 'The Seven Samurai'. The paper compares and contrasts these two films.
From the Paper
"According to Gary Morris, the character portrayed by Mifune is exuberant yet doomed and "brilliantly embodies the very different aspirations of the two groups. He exists precariously between them--a farmer's son who hates the samurai for having destroyed his village during his youth, but now a man who is drawn to their honor code, camaraderie and lust for adventure" ("Seven Samurai," Internet). This statement is a clear indication of the social culture within Kurosawa's masterpiece, meaning that Mifune greatly dislikes the culture from which the samurai have risen, yet he is mysteriously drawn to the honor they exhibit in the face of danger and death. In The Magnificent Seven, all of the main characters are part of a culture that exists on the fringes of society, yet as adventurers, they are drawn to the honor that may come as a result of defeating the Mexican bandits."
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Alfred Hitchcock's "Strangers on a Train", 2007.
This paper explores the use of double images as they relate to the details of the plot in Alfred Hitchcock's film "Strangers on a Train".
2,735 words (approx. 10.9 pages), 0 sources, AU$ 101.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses that, in "Strangers on a Train", Alfred Hitchcock does not state openly the theme but rather gives the viewer clues in his frequent use of double images. The author points out that a double image in the film signals that the viewer is about to see an enactment of opposites in the characters of the story, which are not necessarily visible physically but often indicate the character's internal qualities. The paper explains that double images in "Strangers on a Train" signal conflict about to occur in the story (especially relating the characters), represent the protagonist's inner thoughts, fears and desires, and represent Bruno as part of the dark side of Guy's psyche.
From the Paper
"When Bruno suggests that they each have someone to get rid of--he his father and Guy his wife--and that they should "exchange murders," Guy doesn't take him seriously. He thinks Bruno is eccentric. As Guy gets off the train, he laughingly says he agrees with everything Bruno suggests. Guy leaves his unique cigarette lighter behind on the train, possibly because he is so anxious to escape from the odd, obnoxious, and overbearing Bruno. The lighter has embossed "double" tennis rackets crossing each other and the inscription "A to G." The image suggests that doubles are a metaphor for double-crossing."
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Award-Giving Bodies, 2007.
A comparative analysis of the Academy Awards (Oscars) and MTV Movie Awards (MTV-MA).
994 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a comparative analysis of the Academy Awards and MTV-MA as award-giving bodies. The paper posits that both award-giving bodies have similarities and differences that arise from the culture, audience, commercial value and socio-political relevance of the movies and processes that each award-giving body undergoes. The paper in general attributes specific segments of American culture as the primary driver that distinguishes the Oscars from the MTV-MA.
From the Paper
"These award-giving programs have their own niche and place at the spectrum of American entertainment. The Academy Awards' image differs radically from the MTV Movie Awards, though both programs enjoy popularity and renown not only in the entertainment business, but more specifically because of their influence in American culture. The Academy Awards' (referred to from now on as the Oscars) and MTV-MA's (MTV Movie Awards) importance is based, then, on their relevance to the entertainment business and the general public (as the audience and patrons of the entertainment business)."
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Film: "West Side Story", 2006.
This paper discusses sociology issues in the film "West Side Story".
1,155 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that discrimination of all sorts at many levels is a main theme of the film "West Side Story", which is a modern day version of "Romeo and Juliet" with many of the same problems of prejudice, male domination of the family, and social unrest. The author points out that the film presents the difficulties of an inter-racial marriage in New York City during the 1960s when racial issues were boiling over around the nation. The paper relates that this film illustrates very well the theories of group membership and how the group members live by the accepted norms and govern their actions by the attitudes they have internalized.
From the Paper
"The two main groups are racially segregated gangs: the Puerto Rican Sharks and the White Jets. The members of each of these groups see themselves as the in-group and the others as the out-group. The struggle is for the control of the New York City West Side streets. The actions of the characters seldom deviate from the accepted group norm. When any character acts differently he or she is suspected of disloyalty to the group. Even pronouncing the Spanish correctly makes Tony's loyalty suspect. Group membership is the driving force behind the actions of most of the characters."
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"Psycho", 2007.
An analysis of the use of costume in the film "Psycho".
1,457 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper shows how dress and costume is crucial to the promotion of the central themes and intentions of the film, "Psycho". The paper examines how, not only do the costumes used add to the atmosphere and realism of the movie, but also how the costumes are essential in terms of the final impact and meaning of the film. The paper explains that when the character of Norman Bates dresses as his mother, it is a complete transgression of normalcy and is diametrically opposed to the mundane costumes worn by the rest of the cast. The paper concludes that this contrast serves not only to heighten the horror and shock aspects of the film, but also functions to highlight and to provide insight into the twisted mind of Bates.
From the Paper
"The image of Bates acting out a series of murders dictated by his own mind while dressed as his own mother is made visceral and horrifyingly tangible by the actual incongruity of the man in an ill - fitting and inappropriate dress. The costume that Bates wears is purposely mismatched in relation to his angular figure and creates a compelling physical image. There are also subtle touches in the way that Hitchcock chooses elements of the costume. For instance, the script make reference to the fact that he wears a "cheap" wig, which tends to direct our attention to the pathetic and deranged nature of his psychosis."
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"Rules of the Game", 2007.
This paper analyzes the characterization in Jean Renoir's 1939 movie "Rules of the Game".
3,097 words (approx. 12.4 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 112.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the stark contrast between the world of the aristocrats and the world of the servants who attended to them in rural France before World War II. The paper shows how Jean Renoir brings these two groups together in the classic 1939 movie "Rules of the Game." The paper explains how Renoir violated many rules of writing, both in the number and complexity of the characters and the number of subplots that he allowed. This allowed Renoir the ability to create an entire world within the Chateau. The paper discusses how this film offers modern viewers a glimpse at the mood which prevailed in France during World War II.
Outline:
The Importance of Characterization
Plot Summary
Stylistic Notes
Characterization
Symbolism and Theme
From the Paper
"Movies and novels are classified as to the key driving force of the plot. Some stories are clearly plot driven. Plot driven story lines depend on the events to create interest for the audience. Plot driven stories depend on forces outside of the characters themselves to create interest. These types of stories have several pitfalls. The first is that the characters can seem shallow. The true test of a plot driven story is if one could imagine other characters in the same situation without affecting the impact of the film. The characters themselves are not essential to the success of the story. Plot driven stories often involve generic characters such as hero and heroine archetypes."
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