Assignment: Comparative Reflections on Two Films

This paper is worth 115 points, which is 11.5% of the final grade.  For due date, see paper syllabus or www.turnitin.com.  Turn in the paper via www.turnitin.com and then give me a hard copy at the next class.

1. Watch any two of the following six films: “The Cup”, “Little Buddha”, "Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter,  . . . and Spring," "Groundhog Day," "Wheel of Time," and  "I (heart) Huckabees". These are available to rent (some locally) or to buy (not too expensive, on the internet).  Some are or will be available on reserve at Media Services, first floor of the library.  

2.  DO NOT GIVE A PLOT SUMMARY.  Compare and contrast the films in terms an issue or issues such as: their perspective (point of view) on and portrayal of Buddhism and Buddhists; their basic themes or messages (What does the director/script-writer want the viewer to understand?); their understanding of the relationship between traditional Buddhist cultures and modernity, technology, global culture, or “the West”; how films that are not explicitly "about" Buddhism show the influence of Buddhist ideas and choose to depict these. These are just examples of issues you could examine. Back up your points by citing specific instances in the films. 

In other words, your paper should make an argument about how the two films you picked are the same and/or different in handling certain themes or ideas related to Buddhism.  And your paper should support that argument with specifics details from the films.  As I may have mentioned:  It should not be build around a summary of the plot.  I am aware of the plots of the respective films.

3. DO NOT GIVE A PLOT SUMMARY.  Re-read the paragraph above.  Discuss cinematography, acting, and other technical aspects of the film only to the degree that they relate to your main argument about themes/ideas.  Fill your paper with analysis and insight, not miscellaneous data.  DO NOT GIVE A PLOT SUMMARY. 

4. Format:  Paper should be typed, double-spaced, normal font and margins, approximately four full pages in length. I will grade your work on how well it meets the following criteria:(1) clarity and accuracy of information, (2) completeness and responsiveness to assignment, (3) organization, (4) proper grammar and spelling, including the use of gender-inclusive language as appropriate, (5) good use of examples and details to back up general points, (6) creative synthesis, insight, or original reflection.