Returning to the routine of school was a little difficult for us, especially after a three week break. That said, I am sure everyone will agree that it was a much needed and appreciated rest.
We jumped right back into the unit we left before the holiday...Film Analysis. For the final two weeks of the film analysis unit we will be viewing two films: The Social Network and There Will Be Blood. More importantly, we will be utilizing what we've practiced (before the break), and developed... our ability to analyze and interpret the moving image (film). Moreover, we will compare and contrast both films and discuss their literary and thematic relevance as well as their cinematic techniques.
Our discussion will begin with David Fincher's The Social Network. Though a work of fiction, it documents the birth of Facebook, and more importantly, the rise of Mark Zuckerberg, currently the worlds youngest billionaire. First of all, one must realize that it's more than a Facebook movie. It's a story that seems to reflect an entire generation on several levels and so it is worth our attention and opinion. We will look at the film not only for its historical relevance, but also because of its cinematic qualities and story-telling techniques. Most importantly, the film will give us the opportunity to relate to the characters involved as the themes in the 2010 film should resonate with all of us.
Some of the questions we will discuss...
1. What motivates Mark?
2. How is this film a revenge story?
3. How does music help to create a specific mood, and how does it help to tell the story?
4. What effect does the narrative structure of the film create? What are the limits of this method?
5. What is unique about the dialogue of the film?
6. Ambition leads to isolation... how is this true in the film?
7. Discuss the changing relationships between the characters in the film.