Essay 1
Length: 3+ pages
Format: MLA
From Citizen Kane (Welles, 1941)( This film is available on SWANK, one of the BMCC Library video databases.) select one scene or sequence for detailed, in-depth analysis. Alternatively, you can select one cinematic technique and discuss how this technique is being used throughout the film. The assignment is to examine the use of cinematic techniques in relation to the films themes, character development, character relationships, tone etc. In your analysis, refer to specific shots and frames. Do not summarize the plot. Avoid summarizing dialogues as well. Since film is a visual form of art, focus your discussion on the visual narrative.
Ideas for Film Analysis
From The Importance of Being Earnest
From American Beauty
From The Theory of Everything
Cinematography
“How to Speak Movies” Part 1
Shots
Cinematic Techniques
Writing about Film
A Brief Guide to Writing Film Papers
Pearson Guide to Writing about Film
Film Writing Sample Analysis (Purdue Writing Lab)
Cinematic Techniques in Tim Burton Films (Essay Sample)
Useful Phrases for Film Analysis
Essay Requirements
Students can use only one source: the film itself. No use of other sources is allowed. Students who decide to use additional sources regardless of the assignment are required to follow the rules citations.
The essay should focus on the visual aspects of the film in relation the films themes, ideas and messages.
The essay should be well structured and organized to support that thesis statement that should be first stated at the end of the introduction.
Each body paragraph should be well-organized and structured to support the topic sentence.
Plot should not be summarized; the bulk of the essay should be film analysis.
The essay should be formatted in MLA style.
Important dont use other sources and please make sure you use essay English dont use strong words please English is my second language so use essay English
Grading Rubrics
Thesis statement:
_____ (A) The introduction presents a clear, compelling, arguable, and well-stated thesis.
_____ (B) The thesis is clear and arguable.
_____ (C) The thesis may not be stated, be too vague to understand or not an arguable statement.
Use of Evidence:
_____ (A) All statements are backed up by relevant evidence. All points are supported by multiple pieces of evidence and indicate an overall understanding of the issue presented in the film and the use of cinematic techniques.
_____ (B) Most or all statements are backed up by relevant evidence and are sufficiently supported by evidence.
_____ (C) Little evidence or evidence is no well connection to the argument.
Analysis
_____ (A) The arguments reveal a profound understanding of the issue and material discussed in class. The argument may show an understanding of subtleties, ambiguities or complexities of the issue.
_____ (B) The arguments reveal complete understanding the issue. The argument shows some understanding of the subtleties, ambiguities or complexities of the issue. Misstatements are minor.
_____ (C) The argument does not reveal a full understanding of the issue. The author oversimplifies the issue. Significant portions of the argument may be missing.
Syntax, word choice and grammar:
_____ (A) The style is advanced and academic. The word choice clearly demonstrates the writers extensive vocabulary. Sentences vary in length and rhythm. There are no, or very few, errors.
_____ (B) Sentences are easy to understand. The vocabulary is advance. There are not many errors.
_____ (C) Problems with syntax may interfere with reading. Awkward sentences, inadequate transitions, or inappropriate word choice may be a feature of the essay. Errors may make the argument difficult to follow. The essay may show little evidence of proofreading.
