Choose a film (or book) that deals with interpersonal communication as its focus or theme.  Ideally, these should be non-fiction, historical fiction, or thoughtfully crafted fiction that is complex in its treatment of the issues (See Extra Credit Document in this module for additional recommendations).  Papers should be 4-5 pages in length, double-spaced, and include the following indicated below.  Please make sure you adhere to these guidelines.  This is NOT a film “report.”  It is a film ANALYSIS based on interpersonal communication theory.  Also, note the page and paragraph requirements for each section to ensure the best grade.  

1. Description. Describe the plot, setting, characters, and secondary themes.  Explain why you chose this piece. (one paragraph only)
2. Analysis.  Analyze the communication from a theoretical perspective.  Choose any interpersonal theory from the course including the textbook or the module lecture material that you wish to explore (conflict management, perception barriers, stages of relational development, social exchange theory, etc.).  Please note, your textbook contains many wonderful topics and theories that I did not cover through the modules.   Demonstrate your understanding through the use of examples.  Be specific in your use of examples and the analysis.  What is significant from an interpersonal communication standpoint? (This is the most significant portion of your paper:  3-4 pages).  
3. Evaluation/Recommendation.  Evaluate the piece’s treatment of the interpersonal communication concepts you have chosen. What recommendations for improvement can you see based on your understanding of theory and practice?  Overall impression of the film?  Does it help to illuminate some of the challenges or opportunities of interpersonal communication?  Final reactions/recommendations? (1 page)

Grades: Papers will be graded based on level of academic writing, depth of analysis, use of specific examples.  Punctuation, grammar and overall educational value of analysis will also impact grades.  A highly academic paper that extends beyond five pages may be worth up to 20 points.  In most cases, you may want to chose more than one extra credit assignment if your goal is to earn the full 20 points.  

Suggested Films (Not an exhaustive list.  You may choose any film you prefer, but you must “prove your case” through your writing.  If you prefer, you may substitute a book instead of a film.)

Films: Enjoy one of these films through Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, your local library, the SCC library, or another subscription service.  In some cases, you may find inexpensive copies for sale on Ebay.  

1. Hoodwinked (perception)
2. New York, New York (Liza Minnelli-dark side of interpersonal relationships – obsessive relational intrusion, control, abuse)
3. How to Make an American Quilt (identity, group behavior, friendship)
4. The Secret Life of Bees (identity, group behavior, female friendship)
5. Twelve Angry Men (group behavior)
6. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (mental health, group behavior)
7. Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (stereotypes, discrimination)
8. Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story  (identity, stereotypes)
9. Tuesdays with Morrie  (death/dying, friendship)
10. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf (conflict in marriage) 
11. The Human Face (BBC documentary)  
12. This Emotional Life, Dan Gilbert (3 part series)
13. The Way (death/dying, friendship, coming of age)
14. The Kite Runner (friendship, betrayal/redemption, intercultural communication)
15. The Help (stereotyping, standpoint theory)
16. Remember the Titans (culture, stereotypes, integration, conflict)
17. The War of Roses (intimate relationships, conflict)

Feel free to suggest another title of your liking.  Please avoid science-fiction or fantasy-based pieces (my preference please, though Hoodwinked is an exception.).  Films or literature should have significant character development and offer a rich relational complexity to be analyzed.

Please note:  I have enabled Vericite for this work.  Your paper must include no more than 10% “similarity” before I will grade it.  Even at 10%, the similarity must be common phrases, not misappropriated use of work.