Writing the Final Paper Tips and suggestions

Final Paper DUE: THURSDAY, MAY 24th, 2018 Determine director in next 2 weeks Watch / analyze at least 3 movies 3-5 pages w/ at least 6 sources (3 movies count as sources) Analysis, not summary Some writing time after every movie or so Don’t put it off! Lots of materials if you want them Outlines or rough drafts?

Thesis statements Generally last sentence of the first paragraph Use your director’s name in it and identify the three (+) subtopics that you will be addressing/analyzing Shows your focus for the paper, makes it easy for the reader to follow

Thesis statement Christopher Nolan creates imaginative, original movies that grab his audiences and leave them wanting more through his use non-linear plot structures and constant cross-cutting, his unique premises, and his interpretation of the theme of obsession Plot Editing Themes

Thesis statement Christopher Nolan creates imaginative, original movies that grab his audiences and leave them wanting more through his use non-linear plot structures and constant cross-cutting, his unique premises, and his interpretation of the theme of obsession Plot Editing Themes

Thesis statement Rob Reiner uses this background in acting to his advantage behind the scenes to establish connections to the story through his own experiences, build a trust with his actors that strengthen their performances, and collaborate with others for an overall better picture. Actors Personal interactions Working/depending on entire crew

Thesis Statement Through the consistent use of vulnerable female characters, highly stylized cinematography, and violence, Fassbinder films perfectly express the anxiety of post-war Germany. Vulnerable females Cinematography Violence

Thesis Statement The main elements in the Coen Brothers' films that contribute to their cult success include their anti-heroes, dark humor, and thrilling plots. Characters Humor / Tone Plot

FOR MAY 4th Thesis statement for your final paper + 3 non-movie sources

NOW! Browse OWL PURDUE site regarding internal citations & works cited Read SEXI method Start reading paper examples 1& 2 I’m going to ask you questions about both

Building around the thesis After you have established your subtopics and your thesis Outline and list what you are using as examples from your films and resources to prove your thesis Cite scenes as examples Note plot points Identify and analyze character types Analyze visual elements & editing

NOTES ABOUT CITATIONS What is an internal / parenthetical citation? When do you use an internal / parenthetical citation? Ideas / info that are not yours Direct quotes Paraphrases How do you internally cite something? Citations vs. Works Cited

1. With nearly every project he works on, Michel Gondry uses a wide range of artistic techniques, both expensive and cheap. 2. In Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, the cinematographer used only a single 60 watt bulb hanging near the camera lens to achieve the eerie effect of Joel’s memories being erased. 3. This lighting choice stands in stark contrast to higher budget films, which would typically use more complex lighting setups. 4. On the other hand, Gondry’s production of The Green Hornet, with a budget of over $100,000, had over 1,000 effects shots relying heavily on CGI. 5. The result is a film that feels visually distanced from earlier efforts like The Science of Sleep. 6. Speaking about the production, Gondry said, “We knew the special effects for Hornet could not be achieved with my typical organic effects and camera tricks.” 7. His varied use of technology to achieve his vision sets him apart from many other directors, who tend to choose a style and stick with it.

INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH w/ thesis statement { BODY PARAGRAPH(S) Thesis Subtopic #1 BODY PARAGRAPH(S) Thesis Subtopic #2 BODY PARAGRAPHS BODY PARAGRAPH(S) Thesis Subtopic #2 CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH

INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH Set the context –provide general information about the director, what she / he is known for. Bring the reader into you paper and your topic so the reader can make sense of the topic and the claims you make and support Tell the reader why she / he should care and keep reading. Goal is to create a compelling, clear, and convincing essay people will find interesting State your thesis/claim at the end Avoid being obvious or over-the-top

BODY PARAGRAPH Include a TOPIC SENTENCE Use the SEXI method to prove your thesis subtopics S – Subject of your paragraph E – Explain the subject X – eXample of the subject (evidence from films or readings, quotes, etc.) I – Interpret your example / evidence / quote

CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH Summarize your hypothesis and all your key arguments Use parallel sentences and simple language, and avoid being obvious Establish importance of conclusion by looking at the topic within a bigger context