Superhero movies appear, on the surface, to be relatively simple to identify – they are films where one character is a superhero. However, a superhero character alone is not a sufficient element for us to consider a film for inclusion in the superhero genre. Examine a The Dark Knight (2008) in terms of its generic components. What ideas, themes, cinematic elements, plot devices and character types are present in the film that indicates that it is a superhero movie? What components of the film might be unusual for the genre and what effect does this have on the films generic status? If you wish, you may argue that a film that is not typically considered a superhero film, actually is one when examined closely.
Please indicate through either a cover page or a header which question you are going to answer. Please support your opinions with specific examples from the film. You may compare and contrast two superhero films (but no more than two) if you would like. If you compare two films, you must explain, in your thesis and in the body of your essay a rationale for the comparison. Why does contrasting two films or two heroes shed light upon the meaning of both?
In addition, one must refer to at least one reading, a product of your own research, and utilize it to support your views. Internet sources are not acceptable for usage unless they are from academic journals or institutions or well known reputable sites. Blogs, fan and social media sites should be avoided for the purposes of this assignment. If you are unsure about whether a source is an acceptable one or not, please email the instructor.
Please support your opinions with specific examples from the film. In other words, be specific! In your response, please refer directly to the textbooks or to academic sources found through your own research.
