A Research Paper on the Film Donnie Darko
Overview:
A research paper on the film Donnie Darko and consider how a film uses cinematic techniques to create meaning. Also how different factors affect the way that the film conveys that meaning. develop a clear, thoughtful, and well-organized thesis statement. In which they make a claim about the film under consideration (e.g., what it means, how it functions, how it uses different techniques to convey an objective, etc.). consider how filmic techniques such as miseen scène, cinematography, editing, genre, narrative, etc. contribute to their chosen film’s overall meaning and whether it uses these techniques effectively. situate their chosen films within the historical context presented in that week’s course materials.
You should also consider the film Donnie Darko production context. Whereby to demonstrate an understanding of the political economic conditions under which it was produce-d. Therefore, they should consider the period in which the film was produce-d. Also who was involved in producing it, whether a studio was involved in its production. the film’s budget, the intended audience, etc. Therefore explore how those factors all impacted how the film was made. As such, students may want to consider the following questions when writing their paper:
Would the film be the same with a different production background (e.g., independently produced vs. studio backed production)? How might the film’s production have influenced its content? Did the consideration of the intended audience impact the film’s final form in any way?
Instructions:
You will need to need to have watched the film Donnie Darko. Additionally, you will need to conduct some research to learn about its production context. All sources used (including course readings) to complete this assignment must be cited using MLA format. (See below.)
Take extensive notes on the film. Write down any responses or reactions you have to specific moments. As this will provide you with examples you can use when composing your analysis.
Formulate a central thesis. After deciding which aspects of the film you want to explore/investigate/discuss. Then try to sharpen your focus even further by devising a specific research question you want to address. As you prepare your deconstruction, you should develop a thesis, argument, or line of inquiry that will guide the structure of your paper. This will help ensure that your paper is inquiring and analytic in its approach. rather than primarily descriptive (i.e., simply a recounting of the story or production origins of your chosen film).
Pinpoint key examples. Choose examples from your chosen film that in your judgment illustrate or engage the theories, concepts, and ideas covered in class. By citing specific examples from the film, you will be able to balance your objective analysis and theoretical material with specific, concrete examples. Make sure that you strike a well-rounded balance between theory (e.g., course concepts, readings, and other scholarly sources), analysis (e.g., your own critical inquiries, observations, and patterns) and examples (specific aspects from the film that help illustrate your argument).
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