GERMAN 333: MODERN GERMAN FILM

MID-TERM

FALL 2003

 

1) [1-2 pp.] Respond to a or b below. Be as specific and detailed as possible.


a. Social consciousness and criticism: discuss these perspectives in Fritz Lang's Metropolis and M.

b. Lang can be seen as sending mixed messages in his films: setting up expectations for an outcome or resolution, but then providing something like a surprise ending or unexpected conclusion, which is nevertheless not totally unprepared for in the film. Give examples, citing plot and themes, in Metropolis and M.
 

2. [1-2 p.]

Discuss what is for you a memorable aspect of The Bridge. All films are "visual," so be specific about what aspect of cinema this is: an image, plot development, characterization, technical effect, etc. Be precise, descriptive and thorough, and make a case for why this aspect is a significant one.
 

3. [1-2 pp.]

Discuss the portrayal of the despotic Third Reich in The Tin Drum and Mephisto. What do these depictions have in common, and how do they differ? How do these films approach the problem of the relation of the individual to the totalitarian state of National Socialism? Are the existence and the role of the artist problematic as well?
 

4. [1-2 pp.]

Highlighting any aspects or criteria you wish, compare and contrast the three older films (Caligari, Metropolis, M) we viewed earlier with the two later films viewed most recently, Mephisto and The Tin Drum.
 

Film aesthetics and analysis

Refresh yourself on the major aspects of film composition and the primary elements of cinematic mis-en-scene.
 

5. [2 pp.]

Below are three sets of images. In each set, identify the images and compare them from the point of view of artistic composition; then discuss the significance of the artistic composition for an understanding of the film as a whole. You are asked to treat two of the sets. Use as many of the major aspects of film composition and the primary elements of cinematic mis-en-scene as are appropriate for your analysis.

Discuss either A and B as a set and C and D as a set, or A and B as a set and E, F, G as a set.

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A B

 
C
 D

 

E		 F
G

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Please take time to think about these questions before you write, and consult the course web page for details of general film technique. In writing on these questions, remember to make your responses critical, thoughtful, clear and precise; analyze the films and issues involved, rather than summarizing or retelling. Your reflection on these topics should demonstrate the significance of your insights and ideas, so that an earnest generality about German history as a cultural background is more meaningful than noting, albeit correctly, an indisputable technical feature like the fact that earlier films are b&w and later films are in color.

You are welcome to include in your discussions any films we have seen, as well as others you know (German, American/English or others), and to make use of your studies in other fields to lend weight to your analysis and observations. Make your remarks as specific and meaningful as you can: be focused, analytical and concise. In general you can follow the length guidelines (ca. 6-8 pp. total), although you are welcome to write more if you deem greater length necessary.