Hispanic Films

Question

1. Write a brief synopsis/plot (approximately 50 words) for each of the
following films.
a) El Norte from Module 6
b) The documentary film from Module 8 you watched on your
own.
c) The feature film Module 7 you watched on your own.
d) Volver Module 9
II Hispanic Directors
2. List the country of origin, b) at least three films directed and c) the
type of films these filmmakers tend to direct (drama, comedy, etc).
a) The director from the documentary Module/film #7 you watched on
your own.
b) Gregory Nava
c) The director from the feature Module/film #8 you watched on your
own
d) Pedro Almodovar
III. Film Analysis
1. The film El Norte deals with the complex topic of immigration. What
are Enrique's and Rosa's experiences as illegal immigrant workers in Los
Angeles? How do you think director Nava details the experiences of illegal
immigrants?
IV. Documentary Film Making.
4. List 3 film technics commonly used by documentary filmmakers.
5. Write a definition of the following terms:
a) Documentary Film
b) Feature Film/Narrative Film
V. The Golden Age Cinema of Mexican Cinema..
1. Write a short paragraph (50 words) on the characteristics of Golden Age
Mexican Cinema (types of movies, time period, actors, etc.).

Answer 1

I. Hispanic Films

a) El Norte

"El Norte" follows siblings Enrique and Rosa, who flee Guatemala's oppressive regime, dreaming of a better life in the United States. Their perilous journey leads them through Mexico, where they face challenges, dangers, and ultimately, the harsh realities of life as undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles.

b) [Documentary Film]

(Note: As I don't have information about the specific documentary you watched, a general synopsis is provided here, but please replace it with the actual subject of the documentary you viewed.) The documentary depicts the struggles and resilience of immigrant communities, showcasing personal stories of those navigating life in a new country. Through interviews and personal narratives, it highlights the challenges faced, including cultural adjustment, discrimination, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

c) [Feature Film]

(Note: Similar to the documentary film, please replace with information about the specific feature film here.) The film explores the tangled lives of two families from different backgrounds whose paths intersect against a backdrop of social issues. Through their interactions and conflicts, themes of love, loss, and cultural identity unfold, revealing both the challenges and beauty of human connection.

d) Volver

In "Volver," Raimunda returns to her hometown in La Mancha with her daughter, seeking to confront the ghosts of her past. After a series of unexpected events, including the resurrection of her deceased mother, the film delves into themes of memory, femininity, and the bond between mothers and daughters.

II. Hispanic Directors

a) [Documentary Director]

1. Country of Origin: [Insert Country]
2. Three Films Directed: [Insert three films]
3. Type of Films: [Insert type(s) of films they tend to direct]

b) Gregory Nava

1. Country of Origin: United States
2. Three Films Directed: "El Norte," "My Family," "Selena"
3. Type of Films: Drama, often with themes of immigration and cultural identity

c) [Feature Film Director]

1. Country of Origin: [Insert Country]
2. Three Films Directed: [Insert three films]
3. Type of Films: [Insert type(s) of films they tend to direct]

d) Pedro Almodovar

1. Country of Origin: Spain
2. Three Films Directed: "All About My Mother," "Talk to Her," "Volver"
3. Type of Films: Drama, often with elements of comedy and melodrama, addressing complex themes of sexuality and identity

III. Film Analysis

In "El Norte," Enrique and Rosa face exploitation, discrimination, and violence as illegal immigrants in Los Angeles. They endure harsh working conditions and struggle to fit into a society that sees them as outsiders. Director Gregory Nava humanizes their plight through intimate storytelling and vivid portrayals of the immigrant experience, highlighting both resilience and vulnerability.

IV. Documentary Filmmaking

1. Techniques Commonly Used by Documentary Filmmakers

• Interviews: Filmmakers often conduct interviews with subjects to provide personal insights and viewpoints.
• Archival Footage: This includes the use of existing historical footage or photographs to provide context and background.
• Voiceover Narration: Narrators can provide commentary or information to help guide the audience's understanding of the film's subject.

2. Definitions

a) Documentary Film: A nonfiction film that documents reality for the purposes of instruction, education, or maintaining a historical record, often focusing on real people, events, and social issues.

b) Feature Film/Narrative Film: A feature film is a full-length film that typically has a structured narrative, focusing on fictional or dramatized stories, generally running longer than 40 minutes, and is designed primarily for entertainment.

V. The Golden Age Cinema of Mexican Cinema

During the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema (1936-1959), films often featured melodrama, musical elements, and traditional values, reflecting cultural themes. Iconic actors like María Félix and Pedro Infante rose to fame during this era. Characteristics include a focus on national identity, social issues, and a blend of high artistic expression with popular entertainment.