The film review, worth 30% of your overall grade, is intended to give you the opportunity to critically examine an example of contemporary Korean film and relate it to our class discussions and readings. Although a “review,” the paper is not a discussion of one’s opinions: your likes or dislikes, your ability or inability to empathize with the characters, a critique of the acting, etc.
The film or films should be used as a lens to discuss issues regarding materials covered in class and to integrate theoretical, ethnographic, and historical readings. In other words, provide a critical analysis that uses important social-cultural information from class readings to help make “legible” the film to a non-Korean audience.
In 5-6 pages (double spaced), you will critically analyze a film or films as a form of social memory and cultural commentary and discuss it in relation to our readings. For example, how does the film address a particular aspect of Korean history? Does it challenge or reproduce hegemonic narratives? What does the film suggest in regard to how events are currently remembered? What does the film suggest about contemporary Korean society, for example, gender, race, class identities? How does the film deal with historical “facts”?
What is the relationship between identification and interpretation? In addressing these issues, be specific, cite relevant readings (either from our class reading assignments or independent research), and demonstrate an understanding of Korean history. If the formal properties of the film, its style or narrative structure, for example, are pertinent to your paper, please relate explicitly to our ongoing discussion about Korean history and memory.
When discussing a film or films, please provide concrete and specific details. I do not want a general conversation. Choose significant scenes to make your points.
(Author’s last name + date: page number). Citations are placed after quotation marks and before the final period; for example, “Citations are placed after quotation marks and before the final period” (Kwon 2008: 1).
Bibliographic references should also be provided at the end of the paper. You may choose the citation style, but be consistent.
Does your paper demonstrate a clear understanding of readings? [30 points]
For example, does student show accurate understanding of historical events and clear comprehension of concepts and terms?
You must discuss in detail at least three of the readings from class and integrate them in your analysis of the film.
Does your paper demonstrate critical and original thought? [30 points]
For example, it is not simply a description of the film but a well-considered, analytic essay. You must state a thesis and provide clear logical arguments with evidence.
Are claims, arguments, and positions well developed, well reasoned, and compelling? [20 points]
For example, does student provide a coherent, logical analysis substantiated by evidence from film and readings?
Evidence is NOT simply quotations from book or articles. Quotations do not speak for you.
Provide passages and descriptions from readings and film. For example, provide description from critical scene of the film that substantiates your argument.
Is the paper well organized, with a clear thesis or position, clear sentences, paragraphs, and transitions? [15 points]
Does the paper have accurate mechanics in terms of grammar, spelling, and punctuation? [5 points]
