Option 1: You will be comparing film or TV adaptation of a novel or short story to its original. This is an analytical and evaluative essay. Your job is to demonstrate that you understand the themes and how they apply. Whether you like the film or episode, or the work from which it was derived, is irrelevant to this project. Instead, you need to focus on how it demonstrates and develops the ideas we have discussed in class. I have posted a list of works and the films they have been adapted into. The library carries some of these. However, you should start right away looking for material to use. I recommend that you use Netflix for getting your film.
A rough draft of this project is due in Week Five. A final draft is due in Week Seven. The basic requirements are these:
A. The Film or Episode
1. Brief description: In a few sentences describe the work you have chosen, its medium, when it was made, and what themes it highlights. End this introduction with your thesis.
2. Brief Summary: Briefly, in three to five sentences, recount the plot of the film or episode, and what you consider to be outstanding or unique features of the work.
3. Level: In a sentence or two, state for whom the episode is intended and its audience level? (for instance: children, adolescents, adults).
B. The Original
1. In three or more sentences, discuss the original work from which your choice was adapted. Summarize the plot and note any key differences (such as character names and important plot details) between the original and the adaptation.
2. Take each theme one at a time and discuss how each theme develops.
C. The Comparison
1. Discuss how the adaptation works as an adaptation. Make specific references to key scenes and pieces of dialogue that demonstrate this idea.
2. What is your expectation based on the original? Was it met? Why or why not?
3. What could not be adapted from the original because of technological or other limitations? How were these problems overcome? Is the story strengthened or weakened because of it?
The Format
1. Basic rules of college writing apply for this assignment. It should be double-spaced, have one-inch margins, have your name, class, and assignment clearly displayed, be written in 3rd person, be free from grammatical and spelling errors.
2. It should be a minimum of 750 words. Keep in mind that this figure is just a bare minimum to meet the lowest passing requirement. Turning in an essay that meets minimum length is no guarantee of a high grade.
3. The essay should have both a clear introduction and a clear conclusion.
4. If you use any sources, be sure to cite them using APA style documentation.
Your paper should demonstrate that you have a grasp of the genre's characteristics and are able to evaluate and judge science fiction works. Make use of everything you have learned about science fiction in the class, taking into account not only its entertainment value but also social relevance, psychological appeal, conceptual depth, originality in dealing with contemporary issues.
With summaries, be brief but clear. Do not tell the entire story in every detail, but describe and analyze the relevant parts. Make your concept clear. Do not dwell on minor differences in plot detail. Instead, focus on major differences and how these differences "reshape" the way a viewer/reader sees the material.