American Cinema

Film Homework Questions

Answer the question in essay form (typed, double spaced, etc). At least one full paragraph (5 sentences or
more). Answers should include at least 3 specific examples from the film indicating you watched the film
closely. It is suggested that you answer the question in a practical/factual sense and then elaborate by
explaining why this information is important to the film.

1. BROKEN BLOSSOMS (Due 9/17)

What happens to Lucy in a closet near the end of Broken Blossoms?

2. SCARFACE (Due 9/24)

Where are some of the places you find the "X" symbolism worked into the production design and lighting
in Scarface?

3. BABY FACE (Due 10/1)

Baby Face is an early role for John Wayne. What does he say to Barbara Stanwyck’s character when he
appears on screen, and what does her response to him tell you about her character?

4. CITIZEN KANE (Due 10/8)

What is the significance of the film beginning and ending with the “No Trespassing” sign in Citizen Kane?

5. DOUBLE INDEMNITY (Due 10/22)

How does this film adhere to the conventions of Film Noir? Name some elements associated with Film
Noir and give specific examples of how Double Indemnity uses those elements.

6. INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS (Due 10/29)

Many critics see this film as reflecting the sense of paranoia that was in place during the cold war era. The
idea that Communists could infiltrate the United States and spread their political ideology was a particular
fear of many people (especially HUAC and Sen. McCarthy). Explain how Invasion of the Body Snatchers
expresses that fear and paranoia using specific examples from the film.

7. SOME LIKE IT HOT (Due 11/5)

When Billy Wilder died, the French newspaper Le Monde wrote for his obituary, “Billy Wilder is dead.
Nobody is perfect." Why would the French paper lead with this line?

8. THE MAN WHO SHOT LIBERTY VALANCE (Due 11/12)

Who is the hero of The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance? You may only choose one. Defend why you
selected this character over the other. Do not make any concessions that the other character could also be the
hero. Use specific examples from the film to support your point.

9. BONNIE AND CLYDE (Due 11/19)

How does the music and the background sounds used in Bonnie and Clyde contribute to the tension and
mood of the movie?

10. TAXI DRIVER (Due 12/3)

Do you see the protagonist’s actions at the climax of Taxi Driver to be heroic or psychopathic? Why?