To construct and support an argument about two films that both represent the same socio-cultural issue

Objective: To construct and support an argument about two films that both represent the same socio-cultural issue (see 3A. below for a list of possible issues) in similar and/or different ways as evidenced by examples of the visual elements /mise-en-scene from each film. Select films that we have not discussed in class, that interest you, and ones you can view multiple times, and compare how each of these films represent the issue you are tracking (such as gender, race or class). Include discussions of the following:
1. How are the mise-en-scene (all the visual elements), the cinematography, editing used to construct the representations, meanings and messages relating to the issue you are discussing?
2. In what ways are the films’ representations of the issue you have chosen to write about similar and/or different? Include specific examples from the films. Identify what is significant about their similarities/differences such as cultural, political, sociological, historical contexts and circumstances.

(IMPORTANT NOTE: Since this is a film class, and not a literature class, focus your discussions and examples on the use of the visual, cinematic elements such as mise-en-scene, cinematography, lighting, costumes, shot angles, types of shots, etc. rather than an analysis of the story and characters. Do not re-tell the story (plot summary)! Assume the reader has seen the film. You will lose points if you include more plot summary than is necessary to make your point about the mise-en-scene or cinematography. Before you hand in your paper, ask yourself, could this pass as a literature analysis paper? If so, go back and re- write to include the visual cinematic elements and delete the analysis of the narrative, etc.)

3. Use your answers to questions 1. and 2. above to compose a thesis statement around which your paper will be organized.