Films based on a true story or historical event are often critiqued for failing to present an accurate account of the facts. Regardless of this, many people watch these films as a way to learn something about history. It’s not necessarily true that people are naïve about historical films. For example, most people who have seen Titanic probably understand actors represent a fictionalized depiction of a possible love story between a British aristocrat and a poor Irish boy. Yet at the same time, historical films blur the line between fiction and reality. So while you might see their love story as being made up, you might still believe that the representation of social class division on the ship is still accurate, even if it is not. This assignment requires you to review a film that has been produced in the last decade but depicts a time period before, during, or following the Civil War. The film should also attempt to tackle some aspects of slavery. Such films might include Cold Mountain, Amazing Grace, Django Unchained, Lincoln, or 12 Years a Slave. Search the CTC Library for available films.
Step 1
Begin by writing a brief synopsis of the film. What was it about? Who were the main characters? What are the main storylines?
Step 2
Next, try to evaluate the historical accuracy of the film. How does the film portray pre-industrial America? How does it relate to the historical background provided in this book or in books you have read in other courses? When answering this question, consider such things as whether or not the characters are depicting real people (i.e. President Lincoln), what props are used in the setting and does it seem authentic, what music is playing in the background, and which real events are portrayed and did they get the timeline correct?
Step 3
Closely examine the dominant-minority relations portrayed in the film. Is the Noel Hypothesis supported in the film? Consider the three characteristics of this hypothesis—ethnocentrism, competition, and differentials in power between groups. Provide evidence from the film for each category. This could also include a discussion of specific scenes that seem to contradict this hypothesis.
Step 4
Overall, in terms of historical accuracy, do you believe the filmmakers “got it right”? Why or why not? Do you feel like the film took seriously the nature of dominant-minority relations at this time period or did they try to oversimplify things? Overall, consider why you think people continue to be interested in historical films about dominant-minority relations in pre-industrial America.
Writing Instructions
- Format your paper as an essay, with at least 4 paragraphs addressing each step.
- Provide a heading with your name, date, and assignment title.
- Cite your sources at the end of your document using APA.
- Submit the document as a PDF or Word Doc File.
