| When the world of the media begins to reflect upon itself, the results can be ugly, surprising, revealing and always fascinating. Here are three films about Hollywood and the way that the media rules our lives. From the story of a has-been actress desperately wanting to come back to a public that has forgotten her to a ruthless Hollywood power broker who will do anything to survive in the business. When Hollywood looks at itself in the mirror oftentimes we see ourselves reflected there. |
| Sunset Blvd. (1950) Directed by Billy Wilder |
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Aging silent film star Norma Desmond wants to make a comeback despite her age. Unfortunately movies have developed into "talkies" and nobody is interested in her anymore. This is Billy Wilder's sardonic film noir detailing how Hollywood can chew you up and spit you out. Gloria Swanson, William Holden, and Erich von Stroheim star, with director Cecil B. DeMille playing himself. After you watch Sunset Blvd. read Roger Ebert's essay about the film by clicking here. We will be watching Sunset Blvd. in class. |
| Network (1976) Directed by Sidney Lumet |
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One of the great screenplays by Academy Award winning writer Paddy Chayefsky. Network is the prophetic story of how a TV network cynically exploits a deranged ex-TV anchor's ravings and revelations about the media for their own profit. Starring William Holden, with Faye Dunaway, and Peter Finch in their Academy Award winning performances. After you watch Network, read Roger Ebert's essay about the film by clicking here. On May 10, 2012 there will be an examination on this film. |
| The Player (1992) Directed by Robert Altman |
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Tim Robbins stars as Griffin Mill, the most successful studio executive in Hollywood. Life is good for Griffin, except that an angry writer, whose script Mill rejected, is threatening his life and Griffin Mill must do something about it if he wants to stay on top of the game. Filled with Hollywood stars, mostly playing themselves. A story of Hollywood power politics, and corruption directed by one of the great American auteurs, Robert Altman. After you watch The Player, read Roger Ebert's essay about the film by clicking here. On May 15, 2012 there will be an examination on this film. |
| Information About the Elements of Cinema Final Examination. Please Click HERE |