NPHS - Journalism Review Assignment

NPHS - Journalism Review Assignment: You will be writing a review for a movie, following the guidelines stipulated here and using the sample reviews we read as models. Story due ______. Review format: 1. Have an attention-getting lead. Mention the name of movie in the lead. 2. Personal opinion must be evident in lead or second paragraph. Get right to the opinion, and remember the question to ultimately answer is this: Did the movie do what it set out to do? 3. Plot summary of the movie is a must, but 75 words or less. 4. Use specific examples to support your opinion of the movie. 5. Take into account acting, directing, music, dialogue, and believability of plot, etc. 6. Use short paragraphs. 7. Introduce the main characters and use actors’ names to tell who is portraying those characters. Example: Norman Dale (Gene Hackman) is a small town coach in this classic basketball movie. Style Reminders:  Movie titles are in quote marks. End punctuation goes inside quote marks.  Write out all numbers between one and nine, and then use numerals for 10 and above.  After you have used the performers’ whole names once, refer to them only by last names thereafter  Don’t use first person statements. (Ex: I think this movie is…) Things to critique in your review (adapt them for whatever you are reviewing):  Was the screenplay believable? Was the plot believable?  Were the characters likeable? Believable?  Was the setting, effects, technology, etc. eye catching? Believable?  Did the sound track work well with the movie’s theme?  Did the actors do a good job with their roles? Which ones specifically? (Mention names)  Did this movie remind you of any other more current movies? (This helps your audience identify with the movie.) Things to avoid: Don’t say “great.” It is empty and meaningless. Don’t say “blockbuster thrill-ride of a movie.” Also meaningless. Don’t say “it sucks.” That’s right- meaningless.

Brainstorm: Strong points of movie:(use specific examples)

SOURCE: http://loh.loswego.k12.or.us/lebens/journalism/Journalism%20Review%20Assignment.htm

Weak points of movie:(use specific examples)

Personal feelings about the movie as a whole:

Review Outline Format 1. Ideas for possible leads

2. Clearly state your position

3. Summary- include important cast member. (Since this is an outline it could be a list.)

4. Specific arguments for your position on the piece- with reasons-think plot, characters, dialogue, believability, special effects etc.

5. Possible ideas for ending the article. Include a recommendation or cautionary advice if necessary.

SOURCE: http://loh.loswego.k12.or.us/lebens/journalism/Journalism%20Review%20Assignment.htm