ELA 20-2 Fall2017/Film Study

Name: _______________________________

Film Study: Finding Forrester

Directions: Answer the following questions in full sentences and in effective paragraph format. Once you have incorporated your answers into this document, ensure that appropriate spacing and colour-coding are in effect.

Point of View: Answer the following questions. 1. From whose point of view does the narrative unfold?Answer here

2. Why does the audience come to identify with Jamal?Answer here

Scene Analysis: Analyze each of the following scenes. Remember to incorporate evidence from the film to effectively support your analyses.

1. The purpose of the opening clapper shot retained in the final edit.

Answer here

2. The purpose of the youth rap artist.

Answer here

3. The purpose of the montage scene behind the opening titles.

Answer here

4. The significance of the pigeons taking flight.

Answer here

5. The introduction of the mysterious stranger, known as “The Window,” and why this is effective

Answer here

1

ELA 20-2 Fall2017/Film Study

6. Representations that stereotype Jamal and his friends.

Answer here

7. The choice Jamal makes to invade Forrester’s apartment.

Answer here

8. The purpose of the “BMW” scene.

Answer here

9. Choose a scene and discuss how the diegetic sound establishes mood and setting.

Answer here

10. Choose a scene and discuss how the non-diegetic sound establishes mood and setting.

Answer here

Camera Shots The variety of camera shots constitutes the language used to describe the events. As the scene continues, determine: - How the camera is used and why it is used this way - How what is seen and heard helps to define Jamal’s character - How Forrester is introduced and why he is introduced this way - He contributions the camera and editing make to this introduction of Forrester.

1. How is Jamal introduced, and how does his introduction begin the audience’s identification with him? (Hint: Consider camera tilts, pans, and close-ups)

Answer here

2. The meaning and purpose of a camera shot varies in accordance with its context, belying the assumption that the angle or distance of a shot has a predetermined meaning. This concept can be explored by examining carefully the scene of Jamal and Forrester arriving at Madison Square Garden (1:21:31 to 1:24:20; DVD Scene 20). - What do the medium-close and close shots convey in this scene? Specify when the camera is used subjectively and objectively.

Answer here

2

ELA 20-2 Fall2017/Film Study

Character Delineation

1. How does Forrester’s use of coarse language contribute to defining his character, and why is its use not gratuitous?

Answer here

2. Parallels in characterization contribute to the dramatic unity of the film. What parallels are revealed between the characters of Jamal and Forrester?

Answer here

3. What parallels exist between Crawford and Forrester?

Answer here

4. What is significant about the dialogue before each appearance of Crawford? How does this shape the audience’s perception of this character?

Answer here

Costuming

1. How do Jamal’s clothes reflect his character? What subtle changes do you see in both?

Answer here

2. Describe the clothes Forrester wears in his apartment. How does costuming contribute to his character delineation?

Answer here

Themes: Finding Forrester explores the idea of transcending obstacles to achieve success, and the following themes are used to develop this thought. Choose one of the following themes and explore this notion or other in a paragraph or two.

1. Individuality2. Self-expression/identity3. Stereotyping 4. Peer pressure5. The effect of environment on the individual6. Choices, and reasons for choices7. Mentorship

Answer here

3