To better connect course content to pop culture, you will watch a sports-related film or documentary. You are free to select a film/documentary of your choosing, such as one available on a streaming service like Netflix. Alternately, the University of Memphis provides access to an online film database called Kanopy. Film reviews should not be a summary of the film. Instead, students should clearly and explicitly analyze how the content in the film relates to course material.
Note: Films must have been released no earlier than October 2021. This means that your film/documentary must have been released after October 2021.
Assignment Steps:
Step 1: Film Selection
Choose a sports-related film or documentary that interests you. You can select a movie available on a streaming service like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, or use the University’s online film database, Kanopy.
Step 2: Viewing and Note-Taking
2. Watch the selected film or documentary carefully, taking notes as you watch. Pay attention to key themes, character development, plot points, and any relevant sports-related concepts.
Step 3: Course Material Integration
3. Identify and select specific course materials (lectures, readings, discussions) that you believe are relevant to the film’s content. Explain why you have chosen these materials and how they connect to the film.
Step 4: Analysis and Connection
4. Write an 3-4 analytical paper in which you:
a. Introduce the film/documentary, including its title, director, and a brief synopsis.
b. Describe the selected course materials and explain why they are relevant to the film.
c. Analyze how the film’s content aligns with or challenges the course content. Provide specific examples from the film to support your analysis.
d. Discuss any societal, cultural, or ethical implications raised by the film and their connection to course concepts.
e. Reflect on what you have learned from this analysis and how it enhances your understanding of the course material.