My primary aim in this assignment is to get you used to looking at a text from a rhetorical perspective. I am interested in seeing how you respond to a rhetorical event. Your assignment is to write a short (3-5 page) criticism of the film. You may take whatever perspective toward the film you wish. You may find it helpful to look at some published criticism. Remember, however, that I am much more interested in seeing how you respond to the film, and how you present that response, than I am in testing your knowledge of rhetorical theory. You may consider some or all of the following issues, but you are certainly not limited to them:
1) How does the film respond to a particular exigence (or need)?
2) What was/is the purpose of the film?
3) How are artistic effects used to enhance the message of the film?
4) Was the film effective as a means of persuasion?
5) What images does the film use?
6) Does the film contain/advance a particular vision of American society?
7) Does the film evoke other texts in American culture?
8) What does the film tell us about politics and elections in America?
9) How do the filmmakers use symbols?
10) Does the film tell a story? Do you find the story realistic? Believable?
11) What is the image of the candidate that is developed in the film?
As always, papers should be typed, double-spaced. Pay special attention to the mechanics
and form of your paper.
The film (A Mother’s Promise: Barack’s Biography)
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