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How to Format Movie Titles in Academic Writings

• by Lesley V.
• October 26, 2023

How to write a movie title in an essay?

Students, especially those in Arts, often refer to films or movie series in their papers. The formatting rules here are easy to remember. But:

They vary a bit, depending on the citation style you use.

In this post, I’ve gathered the guidelines for citing movie titles in five primary formats. Examples included, for you to compare and remember everything better.

How to Write Movie Titles in Essays

Are movie titles italicized?

It’s the most frequent question students ask when looking for this information online. Indeed, most citation formats prescribe italicizing. Other general rules include:

• Uppercase for subtitles
• Extra short movie names (like “It” ) may also go in quotations
• When using quotation marks (AP style), put punctuation inside them

Below are the details on how to format movie titles in essays and reference lists correctly.

Writing Film Titles in Different Citation Styles

For APA style (1):

• Uppercase all four-letter words and above
• Uppercase the first and the last word of a movie title, even if they are short articles (a, the) or pronouns (in, at, etc.)
• Italicize the entire name

For MLA format (2):

• Uppercase movie titles and subtitles
• Use capital letters for both parts of hyphenated words
• No uppercase for articles (a, the) and short conjunctions within the movie name
• Italicize the entire movie title

For Chicago style:

• Uppercase all main words
• Lowercase short conjunctions (below four letters) within the movie title
• Uppercase prepositions, regardless of their length

For AP citation style:

• Lowercase articles (a, the) and prepositions/conjunctions that are shorter than four letters
• Uppercase articles and prepositions/conjunctions in the beginning/end of the title
• No italics; put movie names in quotation marks

For Harvard style:

• Uppercase all primary words (nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.)
• Lowercase articles and prepositions/conjunctions (below four letters) within the movie title

How to Capitalize Movies in Papers

When writing a film name in a sentence, capitalize every word except for:

• Articles (a, an, the) within the movie title
• Short (below four letters) prepositions and conjunctions within the title

If a movie name begins with the above, use uppercase. Also, write long prepositions/conjunctions (moreover, although, etc.) with a capital letter. For example:

Italics vs. Quotations vs. Underlines

Most citation styles, except AP, prescribe italicization for movies and film series titles. When writing in AP, use quotation marks.

Quotes are also possible to use if you mention super short movie names like “It” or “M.” You italicize them in APA, MLA, or Chicago.

Underlines are for handwritten essays. When written by hand, you can’t italicize, huh? Use underlining instead to highlight a movie title somehow.

How to Format Punctuation in Movie Titles

If punctuation is a part of a film name, place it inside quotation marks or italicize it.

For example:

Writing Movie Titles in Reference Lists

Do You Italicize Movie Titles?

Here they go, the rules on formatting movie titles in essays. Now that you know how to write a movie title in an essay properly, the only detail remains:

Check the formatting guidelines before writing. What citation style does an educator or editor ask you to follow? If none assigned, choose one and stick to it for consistency.

References:

• https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/index.html  
• https://lib.westfield.ma.edu/c.php?g=354010&p=2388441

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• July 26, 2024
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How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay: Expert Tips for Students

How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay

Often, in order to get your argument across, you can make a better impression by referencing a movie. Or, perhaps, you were tasked to write a review after analyzing a certain film? Well, if so, then you’ve probably asked yourself how to write a movie title – and this guide will answer the question once and for all. From regular movie quotes to special cases, below you can find the tips necessary for referencing that will make your paper look even more polished.

Are Movie Titles Italicized?

First things first, let's talk about italics. When you're writing an essay and you want to mention a movie title, the general rule is to italicize it. Italics make the title stand out and show that it’s the name of a movie. For example:

• Interstellar explores the depths of space and human emotion.
• Parasite is a thrilling commentary on class disparity.

By italicizing them, you clearly indicate that you are talking about a movie. This rule applies to all full-length movie titles since they are the most popular in student works, so don’t forget it.

How to Write Movie Titles in Quotes

Now, what if you’re mentioning a short film or a part of a larger collection? 

In that case, you should use quotes instead of italics. This helps differentiate shorter works from full-length movies, especially when you are talking about several bodies of work and need to reference them. For instance:

• “Paperman” is a delightful short film about a chance meeting and a paper airplane.
• “Sanjay's Super Team” explores the balance between modern culture and traditional values.

Using quotes for short films, TV episodes, or segments within a larger work keeps things clear and organized – and that’s exactly what you want to see in an academic paper.

Different Cases When Writing Movie Titles

Okay, now that the basic stuff is out of the way – what if the film you want to reference isn’t that simple? If you have a nitpicky professor, surely they would want to see proper formatting, if the film is foreign, re-released, or has several directors? Well, below you can find the most common cases (other than regular films) that might come up when writing your essay.

Capitalization

When writing movie titles, always capitalize the major words. This includes the first and last words of the title, as well as all principal words in between. Articles (like "the," "a," and "an"), prepositions (like "in," "on," "with"), and conjunctions (like "and," "but," "or") are not capitalized unless they are the first or last word in the title.

Example : The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Reference Page Entries

When listing movies on a reference page, you’ll need to follow a specific format. For example, in APA style, you would write:

Example : Nolan, C. (Director). (2014). Interstellar [Film]. Paramount Pictures.

Always check the citation style you’re using (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) as they have slightly different rules.

In-Text Citations

For in-text citations, you’ll include the director’s name and the year the movie was released. For example:

Example : (Nolan, 2014) or (Wachowski & Wachowski, 1999)

This helps readers find the full citation in your reference list.

Multiple Directors

When a movie has multiple directors, include all their last names in the citation. For example, for The Matrix :

Example : (Wachowski & Wachowski, 1999)

Special Editions and Re-Releases

If you’re referring to a special edition or re-release of a film, make sure to mention the version you’re talking about. For example:

Example : Blade Runner: The Final Cut is often considered the definitive version of the film.

Foreign Language Films

When writing about foreign language films, include the original title and its English translation in parentheses if the translation is not well-known. For example:

Example : Amélie (original title: Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain )

So, as you can see, there is a way to mention a movie no matter how many hidden details there are – you just have to pay attention (and maybe take a peek at this guide once again, just to remember).

By imagineHarry from Sketchify.

Adding Your Personal Touch

Adding your personal touch to your essay can make it more engaging. You can include your thoughts or experiences related to the movie. For instance, if Finding Nemo made you fall in love with the ocean, share that! Personal anecdotes can make your writing stand out and resonate with your readers.

The goal is to reflect, to discuss, to create something new; there is no need to state the obvious. When mentioning a movie in your work, don’t just give the main plot and say “how greatly the characters impacted you.” It can be extremely hard to get inspired, but more often than not professors want to see your own thoughts and reactions – maybe you can be the next person to take a new look at an old film and see something that was never seen before? Just give it some time to brew and you will surely deliver a great essay.

Most Popular Movie Titles Referenced in Student Essays

Sometimes students are given an assignment, but don’t know which film to talk about. Here's a list of some popular movie titles with several plot lines and themes, so you can choose the one you want to talk about. These can serve as inspiration for your essays:

These movies offer rich themes, compelling characters, and memorable stories that can be analyzed from many angles. However, this list isn’t limited, obviously.

Final Thoughts

Writing movie titles in an essay might seem tricky at first, but with these tips, you’ll be a pro in no time. Remember to italicize full-length movies, use quotes for short films, capitalize correctly, and follow the specific citation style your teacher or professor prefers. And don’t be afraid to dig deep and share your personal insight to make your essay unique and engaging.

How do you put movie titles in an essay?

When writing an essay, you should italicize the titles of full-length movies to make them stand out. For example, you would write The Dark Knight . This applies to all major works such as books, movies, and TV shows. Short films and parts of a larger work should be placed in quotes.

How to put a movie title in an essay APA?

In APA style, you should italicize the titles of full-length movies. For example, you would write Interstellar . Additionally, include the director’s name and the year of release in your reference list like this: Nolan, C. (Director). (2014). Interstellar [Film]. Paramount Pictures.

How do I refer to a film in an essay?

To refer to a film in an essay, italicize the title if it is a full-length movie, for instance, Schindler’s List . Mention the director and the release year in your text or citations. For example, you could write, “Spielberg’s Schindler’s List (1993) is a powerful film about the Holocaust.”

Is movie title in quotes?

Movie titles are not placed in quotes if they are full-length films; instead, they should be italicized. For example, you would write Jurassic Park . However, if you are referring to a short film or an episode of a TV series, you should use quotes, such as “The Red Balloon.”

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How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay or Article

When you're writing a paper or article in school or at work, you may be in a situation where you need to write a movie title in your writing. But how should you format them? Should you use italics? Or quotation marks? Or maybe both? Or neither…

The first thing to note is that the rules will be different depending on whether you’re writing an article or an essay. In this guide, we'll explain how to write one in an essay or article so that your writing looks professional and polished. Refer to the relevant section, depending on the piece you are creating. 

The main things to know are:

• If you are writing a movie title in an article, the format you use is up to you (or the company you work for). Pick a format and stick to it.
• If you are writing a movie title in an essay, then you should follow your university's or employer's referencing style guidelines. 

Read on for suggestions of different formats for articles, and more in-depth guidance around different university referencing styles.

How to Write a Movie Title in an Article 

Let's begin by exploring why you need a specific format, and examining some key principles and rules around writing a movie title in an article.

Why You Need a Specific Format 

So picture this. You’re writing an article and want to refer to a particular movie - perhaps to illustrate a point, or maybe you’re critiquing it. But you’re unsure how to format it. You don’t want to be marked down for formatting it incorrectly, so you consider leaving it out to avoid the trouble. Not on our watch!

But hold on a sec! Why should you even worry about this? Why do movie titles need to be formatted correctly anyway? Well, it’s simple really. If you don’t differentiate the title from the rest of the text, your readers might not understand you’re referring to a movie title. Imagine, for instance, that you wrote:

I finally got around to watching three billboards outside ebbing missouri.

Can we agree this sentence doesn’t make any sense? With this punctuation (i.e. none) your reader may well believe that you headed out into the night and found a couple of billboards to look at for some time. 

So do you see why it’s important to have some kind of format for writing movie titles? 

Key Principles and Rules

Now here’s the tricky bit: with articles, there’s no hard and fast rule on how to format a movie title in your writing. There are many different options and any of them would be acceptable to use in an article you’re going to publish online or physically. 

So what to do?

Our first advice is to check in with your editor/head of copywriting / your point of reference at the company you work at. They will most likely have a specific format they like to use and will be able to share that with you.

That’s if you are writing for a company.

If you’re self-publishing, say, for example, on your website or Medium.com, then you’re the boss, friend. The conventions you use are completely up to you. 

But here are a few key principles and rules:

• Common conventions are to use italics or quotations marks
• Choose one format and stick with it - not only throughout the article but in everything you write
• Keep an eye out for the correct spelling of the movie. For example, don’t forget the comma in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. 
• Title case is a great way to further demarcate the movie title from the rest of the text to make it abundantly clear that it’s a movie title.

How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay 

Now let's turn our attention towards writing a movie title in an essay.

New scenario. You’re writing an essay for your college or university course. Perhaps you’re using the movie as an example, or maybe you’re critiquing it.

But you don’t want to be marked down for getting it wrong, so you consider avoiding mentioning it altogether. But that would be a shame! Let us help you. 

Here are some general rules to get you started:

• Follow the rules of your school’s academic writing style (APA, MLA, AP, or Chicago.)
• Use title case
• Use italics or quotation marks (depending on the writing style)

Academic Referencing Styles

There are different academic referencing/writing styles in the English language, and these vary depending on the education establishment. Different styles have different rules that govern the way that you might write, punctuate and cite within your essay.

The four most common styles are Associated Press (AP), Chicago, American Psychological Association (APA), and Modern Language Association (MLA).

Of course, there are many more than just four in existence, but these are the prevalent ones. 

But why are there so many different writing styles, we hear you ask? Quite simply, this is to cater to different fields. For instance, the scientific sector places a lot of importance on using recent research, hence the APA style places the date before anything. Humanities tend to use the MLA style which places the author's name first. 

Write a Movie Title in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles

Luckily, the APA, MLA, and Chicago styles all use the same format for movie titles, so it’ll be easy to remember.

These styles all require that you place the movie title in italics. Here are some examples:

• Saving Private Ryan
• The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King 

Do not use any quotation marks! This is not necessary and will be considered incorrect.

You’ll also notice that the title is written in the title case. This means you capitalize certain words in the title. More on that in the next section.

Write a Movie Title in AP style

The AP style is the exception here since it does not use italics to format movie titles. Instead, you’re required to use quotation marks. Let’s use the same examples as above, to make the difference clear:

• “Kill Bill”
• “Saving Private Ryan”
• “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King”

Again, here, remember to use title case. 

Write a Movie Title in Title Case

Using title case means that you capitalize certain words in the title. But depending on the writing style you’re using, there are different rules on which words need capitalizing and which ones don't. Mostly, they disagree on whether or not to capitalize minor words.

Read on to find out the rules for each style, to ensure you’re writing it correctly. 

Note that if you’re writing an article, this will again depend on the rules that the company you work for is using, or if you’re writing for your own business, then you can make your own rules. Remember to pick a structure and stick to it. Consistency is key!

• Capitalize the major words.
• Lowercase the articles the, a, and an.
• Capitalize the ‘to’ in an infinitive (e.g., I Want To Eat Cake)
• Capitalize the first and last words (overrides other rules)
• Capitalize all words of four letters or more (overrides other rules)
• Lowercase the second word after a hyphenated prefix

Chicago Style

• Lowercase articles, prepositions, and coordinating conjunctions
• Lowercase the second part of Latin species names.
• Lowercase articles, prepositions, and coordinating conjunctions.
• Do NOT capitalize ‘to’ in infinitives (e.g., I Want to Eat Cake).

As you can see, all four styles share some common rules but are different in certain small details. 

Incorrect ways to write a movie title

Here are some examples of incorrect ways to write a movie title:

• Saving private ryan
• Eternal SUNSHINE of a Spotless Mind
• “Shawshank Redemption”
• One Flew Over the cuckoo’s Nest

Can you figure out what is wrong with each of these examples? We’ll give you a clue! It has to do with incorrect usage of title cases, block capitals and quotation marks.

A note on reference lists

We just wanted to include a little note here to remind you that when citing a movie in your essay, you should include it in your reference list, or bibliography, depending on the academic writing style you are using. 

Again, the structure of your reference list will vary depending on whether you’re writing in APA, AP, MLA or Chicago, and you can find guidance on this in an official manual for the style (or online).

Other Points of Interest

There are some other things you might be interested in knowing that are related to the topic of how to write a movie title in an essay or article, so we’re detailing those below.

How to write a quote from a movie

So you’ve successfully referenced a movie using the rules outlined above. Now you’d like to quote a line from the movie. Which conventions should you use for this? 

For this, you would use quotation marks. For instance, if you want to quote this famous line from the movie Star Wars , you would write: “May the force be with you.”

Remember that if you’re writing an essay, you might need to also include the reference in your in-text citation. Let us show you a full example of what this would look like:

History was made when General Dodonna said “May the force be with you.” in the iconic movie Star Wars (Lucas, 1977).

How to write the name of an episode of a TV show 

If you wanted to cite a TV series, you would follow the same rules as those for citing a movie - as outlined above. But what if you also wanted to include the name of the episode you’re referring to? 

Similarly to inserting a direct quote from a movie, in this case, we recommend using quotation marks. For example:

Friends , “The One Where Everybody Finds Out.”

If writing an essay, please refer to your academic writing style’s guide to learn about conventions around formatting and using title case.

Where does the word ‘movie’ come from?

Dating back as far as the early 1900s, the word ‘movie’ stems from the term ‘moving picture’.

Before they could be projected onto a screen for wider viewing, the first movies could only be seen by one person at a time, using an Electrotachyscope, Kinetoscope, or Mutoscope.

And there we have it! We hope that this article has helped you better understand the conventions around writing a movie title in your essay or article, so you can feel confident about handing in your essay or turning in your article to your line manager.

To summarize, when you’re writing an article, the rules are pretty much up to you if writing for your own business, or your manager if writing for another company. Check-in with them to find out which conventions are already in place.

If writing an essay, then you should always use the structure set out in the academic writing style’s manual. Find out first of all which style you are expected to use. 

Now that that's done, it's time to get writing! 

Learn More:

• 'Dos and Don'ts': How to Write Them With Proper Grammar
• How to Write a List Correctly: Colons, Commas, and Semicolons
• ‘Right’ vs ‘Write’ vs ‘Rite’ vs ‘Wright’: What’s the Difference?
• How to Write Height Correctly - Writing Feet and Inches
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• How to Write Comedy: Tips and Examples to Make People Laugh
• How to Write an Inequality: From Number Lines or Word Problems
• How to Write a Monologue: Tips and Examples
• How to Write a Letter to the President (With Example)
• How to Write Like Ernest Hemingway
• How to Write a Follow-Up Email After an Interview
• How to Write a Formal Email
• How to Write a 2-Week Notice Email
• How to Write an Out-of-Office (OOO) Email
• How to Write a Professional ‘Thank You’ Email

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When Writing the Title of a Movie in an Essay: Correct Format

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Understanding the Importance of Properly Formatting Movie Titles in Essays

An overview of the correct format for writing movie titles in essays, key guidelines for writing movie titles in essays, tips for capitalizing and punctuating movie titles in essays, common mistakes to avoid when writing movie titles in essays, why consistency is crucial when referring to movie titles in essays, using italics or quotation marks: deciding on the suitable format for movie titles in essays, frequently asked questions, in conclusion.

In the world of essay writing, it’s essential to understand the importance of properly formatting movie titles . This seemingly minute detail can have a significant impact on the overall clarity and professionalism of your work. By adhering to the correct formatting guidelines, you not only demonstrate your attention to detail but also showcase your understanding of academic conventions.

One important rule to remember is that movie titles should be italicized when mentioned within the body of your essay. This helps to distinguish the title from other surrounding text, making it easier for your readers to identify and comprehend your references. Additionally, italics can also enhance the visual appeal of your essay, giving it a polished and sophisticated look. It’s worth noting that this rule applies when referencing movies as standalone works; for instance, when discussing the themes or impact of a particular film.

Furthermore, when including a movie title in your essay’s title or heading, it’s crucial to capitalize and italicize it to maintain consistency across your work. This helps to clearly convey the significance and prominence of the movie within the context of your essay. By following these formatting guidelines, you not only showcase your attention to detail but also contribute to the overall professionalism and coherence of your essay. Remember, precision in formatting is just as important as the content itself!

In the vast world of essay writing, it is crucial to follow proper formatting guidelines, even when it comes to movie titles. Including movie titles in your essays adds a touch of professionalism and clarity to your work. However, many students often find themselves at a loss when it comes to formatting these titles. Fear not! In this section, we will provide you with . So, grab your popcorn, and let’s dive in!

When including movie titles in your essays, it is important to adhere to the following formatting rules:

1. Italicize the title: To highlight the movie title, place it in italics. This conveys to the reader that you are referring to a specific film.

2. Capitalize important words: When writing a movie title, capitalize all the principal words, including the first and last word of the title, nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, and adjectives. For instance, in the title “The Shawshank Redemption,” capitalize “The,” “Shawshank,” and “Redemption.”

3. Maintain punctuation consistency: If the movie title already contains punctuation, such as exclamation marks or question marks, retain them in your essay. However, do not include additional punctuation marks solely for formatting purposes.

When it comes to writing movie titles in essays, it’s important to follow a set of key guidelines to ensure clarity and accuracy. Whether you’re discussing a classic film or analyzing the latest blockbuster, here are some essential tips to consider when incorporating movie titles into your writing.

1. Capitalization is crucial: Movie titles should always be capitalized properly. This means that all major words, such as nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs, should be capitalized. Minor words, such as articles (a, an, the), conjunctions (and, but, or), and prepositions (in, on, at), should be in lowercase, unless they are the first or last word in the title. For example, “The Shawshank Redemption” or “Gone with the Wind.”

2. Use italics or underlining: Movie titles should be formatted in italics or underlined for clarity and to distinguish them from the rest of the text. This helps to indicate that the title is the name of a film and not just a regular word or phrase. By using these formatting options, you can make the title stand out and show that it is a specific work. For instance, “The Lord of the Rings” or “Gone Girl.”

Remember, accurate formatting of movie titles in essays helps to enhance the overall professionalism and readability of your writing. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your movie titles are presented correctly and effectively within your essay, capturing the attention of your readers and properly honoring the cinematic masterpieces you’re discussing.

When it comes to writing essays about movies, it’s essential to know how to capitalize and punctuate movie titles correctly . Follow these tips to ensure your essay looks professional and polished:

– Capitalize the first and last word of the title, regardless of their parts of speech. For example, in the movie title “Gone with the Wind,” both “Gone” and “Wind” should be capitalized. – Capitalize all principal words, such as nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. However, articles (a, an, the), conjunctions, and prepositions of four letters or fewer should remain lowercase. For example, in the movie title “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring,” “Lord,” “Rings,” “Fellowship,” and “Ring” should all be capitalized.

Now, let’s move on to the rules for punctuating movie titles in your essays:

– Use italics or underline to format movie titles, as this will differentiate them from the rest of your essay. Avoid using quotation marks, as those are typically reserved for shorter works like articles or short stories. For example, write “The Shawshank Redemption” or The Shawshank Redemption, not “The Shawshank Redemption.” – When mentioning a movie title within the body of your essay, make sure to capitalize and punctuate it correctly. For instance, instead of writing “I saw the movie saving Private Ryan,” write “I saw the movie Saving Private Ryan.” Remember to always use proper capitalization and punctuation to maintain the accuracy of your essay.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll exhibit a clear understanding of capitalizing and punctuating movie titles, ensuring that your essays stand out as examples of professionalism and attention to detail. Remember, proper formatting helps to convey your ideas effectively, so take the time to get it right.

When it comes to writing essays about movies, it’s crucial to pay attention to every detail, including the movie titles. However, many students often make common mistakes in this aspect that can negatively impact their writing. To ensure that your essay stands out and presents a professional tone, here are some common mistakes you should avoid when writing movie titles:

Mistake 1: Using quotation marks for movie titles

One common error students make is to enclose movie titles in quotation marks. However, according to formatting guidelines, italicizing movie titles is the correct way to go. Quotation marks are only used for shorter works, such as an episode in a TV series or a short film.

Mistake 2: Omitting capitalization rules

Another mistake to avoid is forgetting the capitalization rules when writing movie titles. Just like any other title, movie titles should be capitalized properly. The first word, last word, and all major words within the title should be capitalized. However, minor words such as “a,” “an,” “the,” or conjunctions like “and,” “but,” “or” should be in lowercase, unless they are the first or last word of the title.

In academic writing, it is essential to maintain consistency when referencing movie titles to ensure clarity and coherence. Consistency not only enhances the overall professional appearance of an essay, but it also helps readers understand the references being made. By maintaining a consistent approach to movie titles, writers can avoid confusion and maintain the integrity of their work. Here are two reasons why consistency is crucial when referring to movie titles:

• Improves readability: Consistency in the formatting of movie titles improves readability for the reader. When all movie titles are presented in a uniform manner, it becomes easier for the audience to distinguish between titles and other elements within the text. It allows the reader to quickly identify the names of films and understand their significance in the context of the essay.
• Ensures clarity and comprehension: By consistently referring to movie titles in a specific format or style, the writer ensures clarity and comprehension. When titles are presented in a different manner throughout the essay, it can lead to confusion and make it difficult for the reader to follow the arguments or examples being presented. Consistency eliminates the potential for ambiguity, allowing the reader to focus on the content rather than deciphering different formatting styles.

Therefore, it is essential for writers to establish a consistent approach when referring to movie titles in essays. Whether italicizing, using quotation marks, or following a specific style guide, adherence to a chosen format enhances the overall quality of the writing and contributes to a more professional and coherent piece of academic work.

When it comes to including movie titles in essays, one common dilemma is deciding whether to use italics or quotation marks. Both formats have their own unique purposes, allowing writers to express their intentions effectively. Here’s a breakdown of when to utilize italics or quotation marks for movie titles:

Using italics: 1. Emphasizing the title: Italics are used to highlight the title of a movie and draw attention to it. This format allows readers to easily identify the movie title within the essay. 2. Standalone references: When referring to a movie title without mentioning the work it belongs to, such as in a thesis statement or discussing cinematic aspects, italics are the preferred choice for clarity. 3. Formal writing: In academic essays or professional papers, italics lend a more polished and standard look. It showcases your command of proper formatting and adds a professional touch to your writing.

Using quotation marks: 1. Citing within the text: Quotation marks are commonly used when directly quoting a movie title within your essay. This helps to differentiate the movie title as a separate entity. 2. Informal writing: If you’re writing a personal essay or something with a more casual tone, quotation marks can be used to indicate the title and add a conversational touch to your writing. 3. Titling articles or entries: When mentioning a movie title as the title of an article, blog post, or entry in your essay, quotation marks are appropriate to distinguish it from the surrounding text.

Remember, consistency is key when deciding on the suitable format for movie titles in your essay. Whichever format you choose, whether italics or quotation marks, make sure you apply it consistently throughout your work to avoid any confusion. By properly formatting movie titles, you enhance the coherence and professionalism of your essay while showcasing your attention to detail.

Q: What is the correct format for writing the title of a movie in an essay? A: When it comes to writing the title of a movie in an essay, you should follow specific guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout your work. The correct format depends on whether you are using MLA (Modern Language Association) or APA (American Psychological Association) style.

Q: How should I format the title of a movie according to MLA style? A: According to MLA style, you should italicize the title of a movie in your essay. For example, if you are referring to the movie “The Shawshank Redemption,” it should be written as “The Shawshank Redemption.”

Q: Are there any exceptions to italicizing movie titles in MLA style? A: Yes, there are a few exceptions to the rule of italicizing movie titles in MLA style. If you are writing an essay by hand or using a typewriter where italics are not possible, you can underline the movie title instead. In both cases, however, it is important to maintain consistency throughout your essay.

Q: How should I format the title of a movie according to APA style? A: According to APA style, you should use sentence case when referring to the title of a movie in your essay. This means that you should capitalize the first word of the title and any proper nouns, but the rest of the title should be in lowercase. For example, if you are writing about the movie “The Godfather,” it should be written as “The godfather.”

Q: Do I need to include the release year of the movie in the title? A: No, it is generally not necessary to include the release year of the movie in the title when writing it in an essay. However, if you are discussing multiple works by the same director or mentioning a specific version or adaptation, it may be useful to include the year in parentheses after the title for clarity.

Q: How do I cite a movie in my essay’s references page? A: To properly cite a movie in your essay’s references page, you should provide the following information: director(s), producer(s), date of release, title of the movie (italicized or in sentence case according to the style guide you are using), production company, and the medium (e.g., DVD, streaming, etc.). Make sure to follow the specific citation guidelines of the style you are using (MLA or APA).

Q: Are there any additional rules or considerations when writing the title of a foreign-language movie ? A: When referring to a foreign-language movie in your essay, follow the same formatting rules as mentioned earlier according to the chosen style guide (MLA or APA). However, if the movie is commonly known by an English title, it is generally better to use that English title instead of the original foreign-language title to avoid confusion among readers.

Remember, following the correct format for writing the title of a movie in an essay not only helps maintain consistency and accuracy but also enhances the overall professionalism of your work.

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How To Write A Movie Title In An Essay

Are you planning on referencing a movie in an essay you are writing? You'll have to find out how to write the movie title down correctly, or you may lose points. It might seem like a no-brainer at first glance, but you'd be surprised about the variety of approaches different style guides take to writing movie titles.

With this guide, you'll be able to get writing a movie title in an essay right.

How To Write a Movie Title In An Essay

How should you write a movie title in an essay — whether that essay is a movie analysis, or one not related to cinematography or creative writing at all, like one about history, psychology, or sociology? That depends, in short, on the context in which you're writing your essay.

If you are hoping to reference a movie title in a high school essay, you may not have to use a particular style guide — a manual that instructs you on the correct way to incorporate particular elements into your essay. In this case, your best bet is to use title case and to italicize the movie title.

Title case capitalizes all major words in a title or headline, including nouns, pronouns, verbs, and adverbs. Minor words such as short prepositions and articles (the, a, an) remain in lower case. The first and last words of the title should always be capitalized, regardless of what they are. To make it easier for you, we'll recommend that you also capitalize prepositions with more than four letters, such as "about" and "underneath", though some style guides do not do this. Since you are using italics, there is absolutely no need to use quotation marks as well.

Have you got no clue what we're talking about? Let's see this in action. (Warning: Some of the links definitely contain spoilers if you haven't watched any of these movies yet!)

• The BBC refers to "Spider-Man: Far From Home" , without any italics.
• Wikipedia follows the structure recommended above, as in, for instance, " War of the Worlds ".
• Popular movie review platform Screen Rant follows the structure described above as well, in the body of their texts. " One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest " is one example. To allow you to see as many example as possible, we're linking to a post of theirs about the 15 movies with the longest titles .

If you are required to use a style guide, such as AP, APA, or MLA — common if you are writing a college essay — you will have less freedom. On the other hand, each writing style will also tell you exactly what to do, so you won't be in the dark.

Do you not have the entire style manual lying around on your desk? No problem. We'll make it easy for you.

Rules on Writing a Movie Title On An Essay

Whether you have been asked to use a particular style manual while citing and referencing movie titles in an essay, or you are committed to maintaining a consistent style yourself, style guides can be a little confusing. Here is a closer look at some of the most popular writing styles and their rules for writing movie titles.

You won't just be writing the movie title in the body of your essay, of course, but also cite it in the references. Each style guide has specific guidelines on how to do this, as well.

In APA, you do this by:

• Citing he director of the movie — last name, first initial.
• Place the release year in brackets.
• Follow this with the title.
• Reference the medium used to watch it, for instance DVD.
• Specify the location of the distributor, and the name of the distributor (for instance, California: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures).

In MLA, you:

• List the director like this: Last name, First name.
• Write the movie title.
• Specify the name of the distributor.
• Mention the release year.

In Harvard style, you would:

• List the director by last name and first initial.
• Follow with the location and name of the distributor.

Why Is Proper Formatting Important?

Style guides are conventions established to ensure consistency, which adds clarity to your essay. In practical terms, however, taking care to format the movie titles you may reference in any essays is important because not doing so will cause you to lose points, which will result in a lower grade.

You only have to familiarize yourself with the rules set out by a particular style manual once, and after that you will likely remember what they are. There is no good reason not to make sure that you get this right, and every reason to make the effort.

Is a movie title underlined in an essay?

That is actually a very interesting question. Nowadays, nearly everyone writing an essay will do so on a PC or laptop computer, using word-processing software. This trend has led the practice of underlining movie titles to go all but extinct, since it's just as easy to italicize a movie title as to underline it.

Underlining the things we now italicize used to be more common, because people wrote things by hand or used typewriters. Especially when handwriting something in cursive, italics simply aren't possible. That's why underlining movie titles, book titles, and even scientific names used to be more common. Underlining movie titles remains the correct alternative to italicizing them if you are writing an essay by hand.

Do you also include the year of release with the movie title?

Yes, you should mention the release year as you cite a movie in your references. There is no need to do so in the body of your text, unless multiple movies exist by the same title. With remakes, this has become more common in recent times.

Do you quote a movie title in an essay?

Place quotation marks around a movie title in an essay only if you are using AP style.

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How to Write a Title of a Movie in a Paper

The formatting and capitalization of a movie title depends on the style guide you are using for your paper. The Modern Language Association, American Psychological Association and Chicago style place movie titles in italics, while Associated Press style uses quotes for such titles. When referring to a movie in the body of a paper, all of the major style guides use title case, which means all of the major words in the title are capitalized.

APA, MLA and Chicago style

Movie or film titles are formatted the same in APA, Chicago and MLA style. In each of these styles, the movie title is italicized in the body of the paper. For instance:

Pirates of the Caribbean broke from Disney's tradition of releasing more mature titles under alternate studio names.

Fritz Lang's M deals with the issues of suspicion and punishment in Weimar Germany.

In the body of a paper, APA, Chicago and MLA all use title case capitalization for titles of movies. All major words -- such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs and pronouns -- are capitalized. Minor words -- such as prepositions, conjunctions and articles -- are lower case unless it is the first word of the title.

APA also specifies that all words more than four letters should be capitalized: Gone With the Wind . APA uses sentence case capitalization for movie titles in reference lists, which means only the first word of a title and proper nouns (names of specific people, places or things) are capitalized: For whom the bell tolls .

Associated Press Style

In AP style, movie titles are placed in quotes. Note that the normal rules for quotes within quotes still apply. Here are two examples:

"Star Wars" broke box office records when it was first released.

"I am excited to work on any film as complex as 'The Prestige,'" he said.

AP style uses title case capitalization for movie titles. However, the AP stylebook specifies that any word that is four or more letters as well as the first and last word of a title should always be capitalized.

• Rasmussen College: When writing a paper, do I use italics for all titles?
• Purdue University Online Writing Lab: MLA Formatting and Style Guide
• The Chicago Manual of Style Online: Capitalization, Titles
• RMIT University: Harvard Referencing Guide for Visual Material
• Journalist's Resource: Associated Press Style Basics

Jon Zamboni began writing professionally in 2010. He has previously written for The Spiritual Herald, an urban health care and religious issues newspaper based in New York City, and online music magazine eBurban. Zamboni has a Bachelor of Arts in religious studies from Wesleyan University.

Movie Title in Essays: How to Write Them in Text

Do you italicize movie titles?

Students ask this question for essay writing and referring to cinematography works. Formatting rules are more or less universal here, so they’ll be easy to remember.

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to write movie titles for various citation styles.

Are Movies Italicized?

Yes, please use italics for a movie title in essays (1) of all citation formats except for AP. When writing in AP, use quotations.

Another exception is the movie series. When writing the name of the series episode, put it in quotation marks.

 Example: 

•  In “The One with the Fake Monica” of  Friends , Ross tries to get his monkey Marcel into the zoo. 

“The One with the Fake Monica” is the episode’s name, so we put it in quotation marks. Friends is the name of the whole series, so we italicize it. If we wrote this sentence in AP style, “Friends” would be in double quotations, too.

Keep reading for more details.

How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay

Let’s find out how to put a movie title in an essay. To do that properly, consider the citation style you’ll use for the paper.

Differences are minor but still worthy to know and follow. Here they go:

Capitalization

All main parts of speech start with a capital letter in movie names. Exceptions:

• Determiners like definite and indefinite articles (the, a, an)
• Short prepositions and conjunctions (those shorter than four letters): of, on, in, and, etc.

Use uppercase for the above only if a movie title begins or ends with the article or short prepositions. Subtitles start with a capital letter, too.

• The First Slam Dunk; A Thousand and One; The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
• Huesera: The Bone Woman; Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem; John Wick: Chapter 4

APA, MLA, and Chicago Styles for Movie Titles

Need more? Check:

How to Write Book Titles in Essays How to Cite a Movie in APA Format

Italics vs. Double Quotations

The AP style is the one prescribing quotation marks, not italics for movie names. When writing in AP, format films like this:

• “Lamborghini: The Man Behind the Legend”
• “On the Line”
• “The School for Good and Evil”

Underlining?

Underline movie titles in papers only when writing them by hand. Since you can’t italicize your handwriting, it will help you highlight film names. Like this:

Punctuation

If a movie name includes punctuation, italicize or put it inside quotation marks.

• Transformers: Rise of the Beasts
• “Wham!” (AP style)
• Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret
• Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

Citing Movie Titles in References

How Do You Write a Movie Title in an Essay?

Now you know how to write a title of a movie in an essay. Why not take your favorite film and craft a story about it? The best way to remember rules is to practice them, agree?

Follow the guidelines, stick to the citation style — and you’ll write titles correctly.

References:

• https://nau.edu/writing-style-guide/treatment-of-titles/  
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Including a movie title in an essay, it is essential to adhere to certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and professionalism. The following article will give you detailed information on how to write a movie title in an essay.

When it comes to crafting an impressive essay about movies, the effective use of movie titles plays a pivotal role. Movie titles not only add depth and context to your work but also serve as captivating hooks for readers. However, many writers struggle with the correct format and punctuation rules for movie titles in their essays.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of writing movie titles, exploring the different styles, considerations, and conventions that govern their usage. By the end of this exploration, you will possess the necessary knowledge to confidently and accurately include how to write a movie title in an essay, thereby enhancing the impact and cohesiveness of your writing.

Table of Contents

Three main components of a movie title in an essay

An excellent essay title is created using a formula, just like all professional writing has a framework to follow. Remember that shorter is always preferable. A title cannot contain more than 10 to 12 words.

The elements that make up a movie title in an essay include:

• An eye-catching and compelling hook
• An effective tone of the title establishes a general attitude or mood.
• The focus keyword around which the whole aura of the title revolves.

How to properly write a movie title in an essay – Is formatting necessary?

Formatting plays a critical role in writing a movie title in an essay and holds significant importance for several reasons. Firstly, formatting ensures clarity and distinguishes the movie title from the rest of the text. The title stands out by italicizing or using quotation marks, enabling readers to identify it easily within the essay. This clarity helps to avoid confusion and enhances the overall readability of the essay.

Secondly, adhering to proper formatting guidelines demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Academic writing requires precision, and following established rules for formatting movie titles showcases a writer’s commitment to accurately presenting their work. Consistency in formatting also contributes to the overall coherence of the essay, creating a polished and cohesive piece of writing.

Furthermore, formatting movie titles correctly is essential for maintaining consistency across different citation styles. Various citation styles, such as APA and MLA, have specific guidelines for formatting movie titles. Sticking to these guidelines ensures that the essay aligns with the conventions of the chosen citation style, enhancing the credibility and professionalism of the work.

Formatting movie titles: Rules and conventions

Regarding formatting movie titles, writers must adhere to specific rules and conventions. The primary consideration is whether the essay is being written formally or informally, as this will determine the formatting style for movie titles.

In formal writing, such as academic essays, it is customary to use italics to denote the title of a movie. For instance, “The Shawshank Redemption” or “Casablanca” would be italicized. On the other hand, in more informal contexts, such as personal narratives or blog posts, movie titles are often placed within quotation marks, such as “The Dark Knight” or “Inception.”

Punctuation

Proper punctuation and capitalization are essential in writing movie titles in an essay. In formal writing, the first and last words of the title should always be capitalized, regardless of their nature (e.g., articles, prepositions).

However, conjunctions or short prepositions within the title should only be capitalized if they are the first or last words. When using quotation marks, the punctuation should be placed inside the quotation marks, except in the case of question marks or exclamation points, which follow the same rules as general punctuation placement.

Capitalization

While writing the title, one question revolves around the do’s and don’ts; do I capitalize a movie title? Or not? Ensuring proper capitalization of movie titles is vital. Always capitalize significant words in the title, such as nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.

However, articles (e.g., “a,” “an,” “the”), coordinating conjunctions (e.g., “and,” “but,” “or”), and prepositions (e.g., “of,” “in,” “on”) are generally not capitalized unless they are the first or last word in the title.

Context and consistency

While mastering the technical aspects of writing movie titles is important, it is equally crucial to consider the context and maintain consistency within your essay. In addition to introducing the title, provide relevant information about the movie, such as the director’s name, release year, or any pertinent details that enhance the reader’s understanding.

Moreover, ensure that the chosen formatting style remains consistent throughout the essay, promoting clarity and coherence in your writing. As consistency is key, stick to that format throughout your essay once you decide whether to use italics or quotation marks for movie titles. Avoid mixing both formats within the same document. So, on the question of how to write a movie title in an essay, it is important to maintain consistency throughout the essay by using the same format for movie titles.

How to write a movie title in an essay in APA

If you are using the APA style for your essay, there are specific guidelines for citing movie titles:

• Italicize the movie title both in the text and in the reference list. This ensures consistency and helps distinguish the title from the rest of the content.
• When referring to a movie title within the body of your essay, include it in italics and use sentence case. For example: “The film Titanic (1997) depicts…”
• In the reference list, provide the full movie title in italics, followed by the year of release, the director’s name, and the production company. For example: “Titanic. (1997). Directed by James Cameron. [Motion Picture]. Paramount Pictures.”

How to write a movie title in an essay in MLA

If you are following the MLA style, here are the guidelines for citing movie titles:

• Italicize the movie title in the text and Works Cited page. Italicization helps distinguish the title and gives it prominence within the essay.
• When referring to a movie title within the body of your essay, italicize the title and enclose it in parentheses. For example: “The film Titanic (1997) portrays…”
• In the Works Cited page, include the movie title in italics, followed by the director’s name, the year of release, and the production company.

In short, formatting is important when writing a movie title in an essay because it enhances clarity, showcases professionalism, and maintains consistency with citation style guidelines. By paying attention to these formatting details, writers can effectively communicate their ideas while adhering to the established standards of academic writing.

9 Incorrect ways to write a movie title in an essay

It is essential to use the correct formatting, punctuation, and capitalization when writing movie titles in essays to ensure accuracy and consistency. The detailed pointers with examples about the incorrect ways to write a movie title in an essay are as follows:

1.   No capitalization

“the lord of the rings” In this incorrect format, the entire movie title is written in lowercase letters, disregarding the capitalization rules. It lacks the necessary capitalization of important words, such as “Lord” and “Rings.”

2.   Missing spaces

“Titanicthe Movie” This format omits the required spaces between words, resulting in a jumbled title. The movie title “Titanic” should have a space after it, followed by the word “the” with another space.

3.   Incorrect quotation marks

“The Lion King’ Quotation marks should enclose the entire movie title, both at the beginning and the end. In this case, the closing quotation mark is missing, resulting in an incomplete and incorrect representation of the movie title.

4.   Abbreviations

“HPATDH: Part 2” While abbreviations are commonly used for movie titles, they should be written correctly. In this incorrect format, the abbreviation for “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” is not properly represented, which can create confusion.

5.   Inconsistent capitalization

“Jurassic park” Movie titles should follow consistent capitalization rules, typically capitalizing the principal words. In this case, the title “Jurassic Park” is written with inconsistent capitalization, disregarding the capitalization of the second word.

6.   Misspelling

“Forrest Gump” Misspelling a movie title can significantly impact the accuracy and credibility of an essay. In this example, the movie title “Forrest Gump” is misspelled, omitting the second “r” in “Forrest.”

7.   Punctuation errors

“The, Shawshank Redemption!” Punctuation marks within a movie title should be used correctly. This incorrect format includes a comma after “The,” which disrupts the flow of the title. Additionally, an exclamation mark is added, which is unnecessary and improper.

8.   Wrong order of words

“Witch the The Wizard of Oz” The correct word order is crucial in representing a movie title accurately. In this example, the words “the” and “witch” are misplaced, resulting in an incorrect and nonsensical title.

9.   Using article incorrectly

“An Avengers, The” Articles (e.g., “a,” “an,” “the”) should be used appropriately in movie titles. In this format, the article “an” is placed before “Avengers,” and the article “the” is used incorrectly at the end, resulting in an inaccurate representation of the movie title.

How to brainstorm for writing a movie title in an essay

Title brainstorming is an art that combines creativity, clarity, and relevance. It involves generating a range of potential titles, evaluating their suitability, and selecting the most compelling one that encapsulates your essay’s core ideas and themes. To embark on this process, follow these steps:

●     Understand the essay’s focus

Understand your essay’s main topic and purpose comprehensively. Consider the key concepts, arguments, or research questions you will explore and the central message you aim to convey.

●     Identify the tone and style

Determine your essay’s desired tone and style. Are you aiming for a formal, academic approach, or do you want to infuse it with a touch of creativity? Understanding the desired tone will help shape the language and style of your title.

●     List keywords and phrases

Write down relevant keywords and phrases related to your essay’s subject matter. These could include essential terms, themes, or specific concepts that encapsulate the core ideas of your work.

●     Analyze the content

Review your essay’s content, paying attention to any unique angles, insights, or distinctive arguments you have presented. Consider any standout quotes, ideas, or metaphors that could be potential sources of inspiration for your title.

●     Consider the target audience

Reflect on the intended audience for your essay. Are you addressing a scholarly community, a general readership, or a specialized group? Tailoring your title to resonate with your target audience can enhance its effectiveness.

●     Free writing and association

Engage in a free writing exercise, allowing your thoughts to flow naturally and spontaneously. Write down any words or phrases that come to mind when contemplating your essay’s topic. These associations can stimulate fresh ideas for your title.

●     Synthesize and refine

Analyze the ideas, keywords, and phrases you have generated so far. Look for connections, patterns, or themes that emerge from your brainstorming. Begin synthesizing these elements into potential title options.

●     Test for clarity and impact

Assess each potential title for clarity, relevance, and impact. Is the title concise and understandable? Does it accurately reflect the essay’s content and purpose? Does it generate curiosity and intrigue?

●     Seek feedback

Share your potential titles with others, such as peers, instructors, or mentors, to gather feedback. Their perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you choose the most effective title.

●     Select the final title

After considering feedback and thoroughly evaluating your options, select the title that best captures the essence of your essay while captivating your intended audience. Ensure that the chosen title aligns with your essay’s content and objectives.

Thus, an effective essay title should be concise, intriguing, and accurately represent the content of your work. It serves as a powerful tool to capture readers’ attention and generate interest in your essay. Through a thoughtful and systematic brainstorming process, you can create a professional and engaging title that enhances the overall impact of your essay.

How do you give a movie a title? The absolute qualities of an essay title

A movie title in an essay serves as a concise representation of the film being discussed. It plays an important role in capturing the reader’s attention. When crafting a movie title for an essay, several qualities contribute to its effectiveness and professionalism. Here are some key qualities to consider:

●     Conciseness

A strong movie title in an essay is concise, providing a brief yet impactful summary of the film’s essence. It should avoid excessive length and unnecessary details, focusing on the core theme or idea.

●     Clarity

The title should be clear and easily understandable, conveying the film’s subject matter. It should provide a glimpse into what the movie is about, enabling readers to grasp its central focus quickly.

●     Relevance

A professional movie title should be directly relevant to the content of the essay. It should reflect the analyzed film accurately, ensuring readers can easily connect the title to the subsequent discussion.

●     Captivating and intriguing

A well-crafted movie title should evoke curiosity and intrigue in the reader. It should entice them to delve deeper into the essay, generating interest and anticipation about the film’s analysis.

●     Tone and style

The title should align with the overall tone and style of the essay. Whether it is academic, analytical, or creative, the title should set the appropriate tone and convey the essay’s approach to the film.

●     Consistency with formatting

Following proper formatting guidelines is essential for a professional movie title in an essay. It should be appropriately capitalized, italicized or enclosed in quotation marks (as per the chosen style guide) and adhere to any specific formatting requirements of the essay or publication.

●     Accuracy

The movie title should accurately represent the film being discussed in the essay. It should reflect the official title and avoid any misleading or incorrect information that could confuse readers.

●     Memorable

A memorable movie title leaves a lasting impression on readers. It may incorporate unique or distinctive elements of the film, such as a significant quote, a metaphor, or a memorable character or scene.

●     Originality

While it is essential to accurately represent the film, a professional movie title should also exhibit some originality. It should stand out from generic or commonly used titles, adding a touch of creativity or uniqueness.

●     Grammar and spelling

The title should be free of grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. Proofreading and editing the title, just like the rest of the essay, contribute to its professionalism and credibility.

13 Tips and tricks of how to write the title of a movie in an essay:

By following these professional tips, you can confidently and accurately write movie titles in your essays, demonstrating your attention to detail and adherence to established writing conventions. Let’s look at the top fourteen points that will help you ace your movie title game.

1.   Follow the citation style guidelines

Different styles, such as MLA, Chicago, and APA, have specific rules for formatting movie titles. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines of your style and apply them accurately.

2.   Italicize the title

In most cases, it is recommended to italicize movie titles to set them apart from the rest of the text. This helps readers easily identify the title.

3.   Use quotation marks

If you are unable to use italics, such as in certain online platforms or handwritten essays, use quotation marks to enclose the movie title. The movie title should be in quotation marks, indicating that it is a specific work within a larger body of work. For instance, “The Shawshank Redemption” or “Inception.”

4.   Include the title in the sentence case

When mentioning a movie title within the body of your essay, use sentence case, capitalizing only the first word and proper nouns.

5.   Place the title in parentheses

When referring to a movie title within the text, enclose it in parentheses after the relevant information or context.

6.   Indicate the release year

Whenever possible, include the year of release in parentheses after the movie title. This provides context for the reader and helps differentiate between movies with the same or similar titles.

7.   Include the director’s name

If relevant to your discussion, consider including the director’s name after the movie title to provide additional context or highlight specific aspects of the movie.

8.   Include additional details (if necessary)

Depending on the focus of your essay, you may include other details, such as the production company or relevant actors in the movie title mentioned.

9.   Avoid excessive punctuation

Stick to using parentheses, commas, and periods as necessary. Avoid using unnecessary punctuation that may clutter the title.

10.                Maintain parallelism

If referencing multiple movies within your essay, ensure consistent formatting and parallel structure for all the titles.

11.                Pay attention to accuracy

Double-check the spelling and accuracy of movie titles to avoid any errors or inaccuracies that may detract from the credibility of your essay.

12.                Consult reliable sources

If you are unsure about the correct formatting of a movie title, consult reputable style guides, writing handbooks, or official citation style manuals to ensure accuracy.

13.                Proofread and edit

After writing your essay, thoroughly proofread and edit to ensure all movie titles are correctly formatted and consistent with the chosen citation style.

The bottom line

Understanding how to write movie titles in an essay is essential for maintaining proper adherence to citation style guidelines. So, in conclusion, you can accurately and effectively incorporate movie titles into your essays by following the basic rules, such as italicizing or using quotation marks, ensuring consistency, and properly capitalizing words.

If you use a specific citation style like APA or MLA, follow the respective guidelines for citing movie titles within the text and in the reference list or Works Cited page. With these rules in the above-mentioned guide, you can present movie titles professionally and clearly in your academic writing.

Further, writing movie titles in an essay is an art form that requires attention to detail and adherence to specific rules. By understanding the significance of movie titles, following formatting guidelines, and maintaining consistency, you can effectively incorporate movie titles into your essays and captivate your readers. Now armed with this knowledge, you can confidently embark on your journey to weave compelling narratives with the power of cinema.

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How to Write the Name of a Movie in an Essay

Writing essays entails finding information from books, journals, or online sources. The diversity of sources enhances your writing creativity. Sometimes your professor may ask you to refer to movies. In such a case, there will be a concern about how to write the name of the movie. You need think of a good way to use a movie title in an essay.

There are various styles of writing a movie title. The choice of a style depends on your preference or your professor's guidelines. You will always be concerned about the formats and whether to italicize the titles. There will also be the issue of mentioning the names of actors. Below is a simple guideline to ensure you get the title right.

Main Principles Of Writing Movie Titles In Essays

Choosing the right movie can help you to get started. Be careful in your selection because some movies may have similar titles. Also, consider the words used in the title. Many movies have multiple titles because they are retitled to fit different countries. Others have had their titles changed with time. When referring to a movie, ensure you know its actual title.

If you don't understand the essay writing principles, find online help. By having your work done by our essay writing service , you will submit an excellent project. Our writers are professionals in academic writing and will deliver work on time.

Other rules of writing titles are as follows:

• Share your experience
• Highlight the lessons from the movie
• Start by discussing the background
• Understand the main topics and ideas. Discuss the way they have been disclosed in the movie. 
• Follow the right formatting style
• Follow the right structure
• Use active voice
• Use the correct punctuation of titles and headings
• Connect ideas well

How To Write Movie Titles In APA Format

APA is a common style used in writing movie titles. It applies to academic writing, mainly in social sciences. APA, Chicago, and MLA use the same approach to title case capitalization.

In APA format, always capitalize the first letters of significant words. This excludes articles and prepositions. The title should also be capitalized. You must capitalize words with more than four letters, including prepositions or articles. For example, “Tapping The Sky.”`

Put the name of the movie in italics and the name of the DVD chapter in quotes. The name of the movie scene should also be in a quote.

How To Write Movie Titles In MLA Format

This writing style was developed by the Modern Language Association. It is a collection of formatting and citing guidelines applied in academic writing. You should format all titles consistently in the entire paper.

Capitalize the first letters of the main words. This excludes insignificant words such as articles, prepositions, and conjunctions. Capitalize the insignificant words if they appear at the beginning of a sentence. All titles in your work's body also need to be capitalized.

The words that should not be capitalized when using movie title in an essay include:

• Prepositions that are part of the title (for example, between, on, of, against)
• Articles that are part of the title
• Coordinating conjunctions such as “but”, “and”, “for”, and “or”

Do I need to underline my title movie?

Many people tend to underline their titles using a word processor. The best approach is not to underline.

Is the year of release necessary in a movie title?

Yes, you need to mention the year of release in your reference. You don't have to include it in the main text. However, you can include it in the text if different movies have the same title.

Do I need to quote the title of the movie in my essay?

When using APA referencing style, use quotation marks in the movie title. For other referencing styles, there is no need to quote the movie title.

Why should I do a film title?

Any long work, such as a television series or a movie, should be italicized. Short work such as poems, articles, and stories should be put in quotes.

How should I quote a film line?

Use the movie title in the form of parenthesis in the in-text citation. MLA style uses the name of the author and the page number for citations. Movies have no page numbers. So use the movie name under the “works cited”

What is the ideal length of a movie title?

Movie titles need to be short and clear. Movies with a one-word title can have a significant impact if they capture the essence of the movie. So, it is good to avoid a one-word title.

How should I cite a film script?

• Always start with the last name of the author at the beginning of your citation line.
• Write the film name in italics, followed by a period
• Write the name of the publisher
• After the publisher, including the year of script creation

What is the best way to cite a character?

Begin the first entry of your reference list with the performer's name. Only focus on the performer whose character is outstanding. List the actor's last name and first name in that order.

How do I create a script title?

As a writer, be careful about the words in the script. Your title must provide a taste of the genre and the main storyline.

What is the general way of quoting a film title in an essay?

Use the film title only in your essay. Instead of italicizing the title, use quotation marks around your title. The first and the last words of the film must be capitalized. Capitalize prepositions and verbs if they have three letters or more.

Should movie titles be italicized?

Italicizing movie titles applies to most writing styles. The purpose of italicizing is to set your text apart from the other parts of the sentence. It also shows the words that are part of the movie title.

Besides italicizing the titles of short movies, you should also place them in quotation marks. This applies to movies under thirty minutes and segments within larger movies. This rule is not very strict. So, check the writing style guide to see when to use different punctuation.

There is also an exception in news writing. For the Associated Press style of writing, always include quotation marks in your titles. Italics are not necessary because AP style prohibits the use of italicization in most academic writing.

In summary, these are the basic rules:

• Italicize the series name
• Italicize the film name
• Quote the DVD chapter or the scene name
• Quote the episode's name

Do you underline movie titles?

MLA and APA referencing styles use the same format for movie titles. In these styles, you should not underline the film titles. Write them in italics in the main body of your essay. Underlining texts was more popular during the previous age. When you type on a computer, the usual practice is to use italics.

Demonstrate your skills to your professors by naming your movie well in an essay. By following the guidelines, you can create an excellent project. This can also be fun and interesting. Choose an interesting essay topic and follow the above guide carefully. This is the easiest way to get good grades and excel academically. You can also order essay and get affordable assistance and great value. Reach out to professional academic writers instead of struggling to meet deadlines.

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How to Write a Film Analysis Essay: Examples, Outline, & Tips

A film analysis essay might be the most exciting assignment you have ever had! After all, who doesn’t love watching movies? You have your favorite movies, maybe something you watched years ago, perhaps a classic, or a documentary. Or your professor might assign a film for you to make a critical review. Regardless, you are totally up for watching a movie for a film analysis essay.

However, once you have watched the movie, facing the act of writing might knock the wind out of your sails because you might be wondering how to write a film analysis essay. In summary, writing movie analysis is not as difficult as it might seem, and Custom-writing.org experts will prove this. This guide will help you choose a topic for your movie analysis, make an outline, and write the text.️ Film analysis examples are added as a bonus! Just keep reading our advice on how to get started.

❓ What Is a Film Analysis Essay?

• 🚦 Film Analysis Types

📽️ Movie Analysis Format

✍️ how to write a film analysis, 🎦 film analysis template, 🎬 film analysis essay topics.

• 📄 Essay Examples

🔗 References

To put it simply, film analysis implies watching a movie and then considering its characteristics : genre, structure, contextual context, etc. Film analysis is usually considered to be a form of rhetorical analysis . The key to success here is to formulate a clear and logical argument, supporting it with examples.

🚦 Film Analysis Essay Types

Since a film analysis essay resembles literature analysis, it makes sense that there are several ways to do it. Its types are not limited to the ones described here. Moreover, you are free to combine the approaches in your essay as well. Since your writing reflects your own opinion, there is no universal way to do it.

• Semiotic analysis . If you’re using this approach, you are expected to interpret the film’s symbolism. You should look for any signs that may have a hidden meaning. Often, they reveal some character’s features. To make the task more manageable, you can try to find the objects or concepts that appear on the screen multiple times. What is the context they appear in? It might lead you to the hidden meaning of the symbols.
• Narrative structure analysis . This type is quite similar to a typical literature guide. It includes looking into the film’s themes, plot, and motives. The analysis aims to identify three main elements: setup, confrontation, and resolution. You should find out whether the film follows this structure and what effect it creates. It will make the narrative structure analysis essay if you write about the theme and characters’ motivations as well.
• Contextual analysis . Here, you would need to expand your perspective. Instead of focusing on inner elements, the contextual analysis looks at the time and place of the film’s creation. Therefore, you should work on studying the cultural context a lot. It can also be a good idea to mention the main socio-political issues of the time. You can even relate the film’s success to the director or producer and their career.
• Mise-en-scene analysis . This type of analysis works with the most distinctive feature of the movies, audiovisual elements. However, don’t forget that your task is not only to identify them but also to explain their importance. There are so many interconnected pieces of this puzzle: the light to create the mood, the props to show off characters’ personalities, messages hidden in the song lyrics.

To write an effective film analysis essay, it is important to follow specific format requirements that include the following:

• Standard essay structure. Just as with any essay, your analysis should consist of an introduction with a strong thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The main body usually includes a summary and an analysis of the movie’s elements.
• Present tense for events in the film. Use the present tense when describing everything that happens in the movie. This way, you can make smooth transitions between describing action and dialogue. It will also improve the overall narrative flow.
• Proper formatting of the film’s title. Don’t enclose the movie’s title in quotation marks; instead, italicize it. In addition, use the title case : that is, capitalize all major words.
• Proper use of the characters’ names. When you mention a film character for the first time, name the actor portraying them. After that, it is enough to write only the character’s name.
• In-text citations. Use in-text citations when describing certain scenes or shots from the movie. Format them according to your chosen citation style. If you use direct quotes, include the time-stamp range instead of page numbers. Here’s how it looks in the MLA format: (Smith 0:11:24–0:12:35).

Even though film analysis is similar to the literary one, you might still feel confused with where to begin. No need to worry; there are only a few additional steps you need to consider during the writing process.

Need more information? It can be found in the video below.

Starting Your Film Analysis Essay

There are several things you need to do before you start writing your film analysis paper. First and foremost, you have to watch the movie. Even if you have seen it a hundred times, you need to watch it again to make a good film analysis essay.

Note that you might be given an essay topic or have to think of it by yourself. If you are free to choose a topic for your film analysis essay, reading some critical reviews before you watch the film might be a good idea. By doing this in advance, you will already know what to look for when watching the movie.

In the process of watching, keep the following tips in mind:

• Consider your impression of the movie
• Enumerate memorable details
• Try to interpret the movie message in your way
• Search for the proof of your ideas (quotes from the film)
• Make comments on the plot, settings, and characters
• Draw parallels between the movie you are reviewing and some other movies

Making a Film Analysis Essay Outline

Once you have watched and possibly re-watched your assigned or chosen movie from an analytical point of view, you will need to create a movie analysis essay outline . The task is pretty straightforward: the outline can look just as if you were working on a literary analysis or an article analysis.

• Introduction : This includes the basics of the movie, including the title, director, and the date of release. You should also present the central theme or ideas in the movie and your thesis statement .
• Summary : This is where you take the time to present an overview of the primary concepts in the movie, including the five Ws (who, what, when, where, and why)—don’t forget how!—as well as anything you wish to discuss that relates to the point of view, style, and structure.
• Analysis : This is the body of the essay and includes your critical analysis of the movie, why you did or did not like it, and any supporting material from the film to support your views. It would help if you also discussed whether the director and writer of the movie achieved the goal they set out to achieve.
• Conclusion: This is where you can state your thesis again and provide a summary of the primary concepts in a new and more convincing manner, making a case for your analysis. You can also include a call-to-action that will invite the reader to watch the movie or avoid it entirely.

You can find a great critical analysis template at Thompson Rivers University website. In case you need more guidance on how to write an analytical paper, check out our article .

Writing & Editing Your Film Analysis Essay

We have already mentioned that there are differences between literary analysis and film analysis. They become especially important when one starts writing their film analysis essay.

First of all, the evidence you include to support the arguments is not the same. Instead of quoting the text, you might need to describe the audiovisual elements.

However, the practice of describing the events is similar in both types. You should always introduce a particular sequence in the present tense. If you want to use a piece of a dialogue between more than two film characters, you can use block quotes. However, since there are different ways to do it, confirm with your supervisor.

For your convenience, you might as well use the format of the script, for which you don’t have to use quotation marks:

ELSA: But she won’t remember I have powers?

KING: It’s for the best.

Finally, to show off your proficiency in the subject, look at the big picture. Instead of just presenting the main elements in your analysis, point out their significance. Describe the effect they make on the overall impression form the film. Moreover, you can dig deeper and suggest the reasons why such elements were used in a particular scene to show your expertise.

Stuck writing a film analysis essay? Worry not! Use our template to structure your movie analysis properly.

Introduction

• The title of the film is… [title]
• The director is… [director’s name] He/she is known for… [movies, style, etc.]
• The movie was released on… [release date]
• The themes of the movie are… [state the film’s central ideas]
• The film was made because… [state the reasons]
• The movie is… because… [your thesis statement].
• The main characters are… [characters’ names]
• The events take place in… [location]
• The movie is set in… [time period]
• The movie is about… [state what happens in the film and why]
• The movie left a… [bad, unforgettable, lasting, etc.] impression in me.
• The script has… [a logical sequence of events, interesting scenes, strong dialogues, character development, etc.]
• The actors portray their characters… [convincingly, with intensity, with varying degree of success, in a manner that feels unnatural, etc.]
• The soundtrack is [distracting, fitting, memorable, etc.]
• Visual elements such as… [costumes, special effects, etc.] make the film [impressive, more authentic, atmospheric, etc.]
• The film succeeds/doesn’t succeed in engaging the target audience because it… [tells a compelling story, features strong performances, is relevant, lacks focus, is unauthentic, etc.]
• Cultural and societal aspects make the film… [thought-provoking, relevant, insightful, problematic, polarizing, etc.]
• The director and writer achieved their goal because… [state the reasons]
• Overall, the film is… [state your opinion]
• I would/wouldn’t recommend watching the movie because… [state the reasons]
• Analysis of the film Inception by Christopher Nolan .
• Examine the rhetoric in the film The Red Balloon .
• Analyze the visual effects of Zhang Yimou’s movie Hero .
• Basic concepts of the film Interstellar by Christopher Nolan.
• The characteristic features of Federico Fellini’s movies.  
• Analysis of the movie The Joker .
• The depiction of ethical issues in Damaged Care .  
• Analyze the plot of the film Moneyball .
• Explore the persuasive techniques used in Henry V .
• Analyze the movie Killing Kennedy .
• Discuss the themes of the film Secret Window .
• Describe the role of audio and video effects in conveying the message of the documentary Life in Renaissance .  
• Compare and analyze the films Midnight Cowboy and McCabe and Mrs. Miller .  
• Analysis of the movie Rear Window . 
• The message behind the film Split .
• Analyze the techniques used by Tim Burton in his movie Sleepy Hollow .
• The topic of children’s abuse and importance of trust in Joseph Sargent’s Sybil .
• Examine the themes and motives of the film Return to Paradise by Joseph Ruben.
• The issues of gender and traditions in the drama The Whale Rider.   
• Analysis of the film Not Easily Broken by Duke Bill. 
• The symbolism in R. Scott’s movie Thelma and Louise .
• The meaning of audiovisual effects in Citizen Kane .  
• Analyze the main characters of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo .  
• Discuss the historical accuracy of the documentary The Civil War .  
• Analysis of the movie Through a Glass Darkly . 
• Explore the core idea of the comedy Get Out .
• The problem of artificial intelligence and human nature in Ex Machina .  
• Three principles of suspense used in the drama The Fugitive .
• Examine the ideas Michael Bay promotes in Armageddon .
• Analyze the visual techniques used in Tenet by Christopher Nolan.
• Analysis of the movie The Green Mile .
• Discrimination and exclusion in the film The Higher Learning .  
• The hidden meaning of the scenes in Blade Runner .
• Compare the social messages of the films West Side Story and Romeo + Juliet .
• Highlighting the problem of children’s mental health in the documentary Kids in Crisis .
• Discuss the ways Paul Haggis establishes the issue of racial biases in his movie Crash .
• Analyze the problem of moral choice in the film Gone Baby Gone .
• Analysis of the historical film Hacksaw Ridge .
• Explore the main themes of the film Mean Girls by Mark Walters .
• The importance of communication in the movie Juno .
• Describe the techniques the authors use to highlight the problems of society in Queen and Slim .  
• Examine the significance of visual scenes in My Family/ Mi Familia .  
• Analysis of the thriller Salt by Phillip Noyce. 
• Analyze the message of Greg Berlanti’s film Love, Simon .
• Interpret the symbols of the film The Wizard of Oz (1939).
• Discuss the modern issues depicted in the film The Corporation .
• Moral lessons of Edward Zwick’s Blood Diamond . 
• Analysis of the documentary Solitary Nation . 
• Describe the audiovisual elements of the film Pride and Prejudice (2005) .
• The problem of toxic relationships in Malcolm and Marie .

📄 Film Analysis Examples

Below you’ll find two film analysis essay examples. Note that the full versions are downloadable for free!

Film Analysis Example #1: The Intouchables

Raising acute social problems in modern cinema is a common approach to draw the public’s attention to the specific issues and challenges of people facing crucial obstacles. As a film for review, The Intouchables by Oliver Nakache and Éric Toledano will be analyzed, and one of the themes raised in this movie is the daily struggle of the person with severe disabilities. This movie is a biographical drama with comedy elements. The Intouchables describes the routine life of a French millionaire who is confined to a wheelchair and forced to receive help from his servants. The acquaintance of the disabled person with a young and daring man from Parisian slums changes the lives of both radically. The film shows that for a person with disabilities, recognition as a full member of society is more important than sympathy and compassion, and this message expressed comically raises an essential problem of human loneliness.

Movie Analysis Example #2: Parasite

Parasite is a 2019 South Korean black comedy thriller movie directed by Bong Joon-ho and is the first film with a non-English script to win Best Picture at the Oscars in 2020. With its overwhelming plot and acting, this motion picture retains a long-lasting effect and some kind of shock. The class serves as a backbone and a primary objective of social commentary within the South Korean comedy/thriller (Kench, 2020). Every single element and detail in the movie, including the student’s stone, the contrasting architecture, family names, and characters’ behavior, contribute to the central topic of the universal problem of classism and wealth disparity. The 2020 Oscar-winning movie Parasite (2019) is a phenomenal cinematic portrayal and a critical message to modern society regarding the severe outcomes of the long-established inequalities within capitalism.

Want more examples? Check out this bonus list of 10 film analysis samples. They will help you gain even more inspiration.

• “Miss Representation” Documentary Film Analysis
• “The Patriot”: Historical Film Analysis
• “The Morning Guy” Film Analysis
• 2012′ by Roland Emmerich Film Analysis
• “The Crucible” (1996) Film Analysis
• The Aviator’ by Martin Scorsese Film Analysis
• The “Lions for Lambs” Film Analysis
• Bill Monroe – Father of Bluegrass Music Film Analysis
• Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Harry Potter’ Film Analysis
• Red Tails by George Lucas Film Analysis

Film Analysis Essay FAQ

• Watch the movie or read a detailed plot summary.
• Read others’ film reviews paying attention to details like key characters, movie scenes, background facts.
• Compose a list of ideas about what you’ve learned.
• Organize the selected ideas to create a body of the essay.
• Write an appropriate introduction and conclusion.

The benefits of analyzing a movie are numerous . You get a deeper understanding of the plot and its subtle aspects. You can also get emotional and aesthetic satisfaction. Film analysis enables one to feel like a movie connoisseur.

Here is a possible step by step scenario:

• Think about the general idea that the author probably wanted to convey.
• Consider how the idea was put across: what characters, movie scenes, and details helped in it.
• Study the broader context: the author’s other works, genre essentials, etc.

The definition might be: the process of interpreting a movie’s aspects. The movie is reviewed in terms of details creating the artistic value. A film analysis essay is a paper presenting such a review in a logically structured way.

• Film Analysis – UNC Writing Center
• Film Writing: Sample Analysis // Purdue Writing Lab
• Yale Film Analysis – Yale University
• Film Terms And Topics For Film Analysis And Writing
• Questions for Film Analysis (Washington University)
• Resources on Film Analysis – Cinema Studies (University of Toronto)
• Does Film Analysis Take the Magic out of Movies?
• Film Analysis Research Papers – Academia.edu
• What’s In a Film Analysis Essay? Medium
• Analysis of Film – SAGE Research Methods
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APA Style (7th Edition) Citation Guide: Films/Videos/TV Shows

• Introduction
• Journal Articles
• Magazine/Newspaper Articles
• Books & Ebooks
• Government & Legal Documents
• Biblical Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Films/Videos/TV Shows
• How to Cite: Other
• Additional Help

Table of Contents

Film or Video

Streaming Video From a Website (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.)

Streaming video from a subscription media website (netflix, amazon prime, hulu, etc.), streaming video from a library database, television series episode.

Note: All citations should be double spaced and have a hanging indent in a Reference List.

A "hanging indent" means that each subsequent line after the first line of your citation should be indented by 0.5 inches.

This Microsoft support page contains instructions about how to format a hanging indent in a paper.

Who to Credit - Film or Video

The director should be credited as the author of a film. If the director is unknown, someone in a similar role, such as a producer and/or writer, can be credited. To clarify what role the person has in the production, their job title such as Director is put after their name in round brackets if the job title is known.

Who to Credit - Streaming Video from a Website

For videos from websites such as YouTube or Vimeo, credit the person who posted the content. If a real name is provided, use that followed by the person's user name in square brackets. If the real name of the person who posted the content is not known, just use their user name without brackets.

Note : It is not necessary to specify how you watched a film or video (e.g. motion picture, DVD, streaming online). 

In the Body of a Paper

Books, Journals, Reports, Webpages, etc.: When you refer to titles of a “stand-alone work,” as the APA calls them on their APA Style website, such as books, journals, reports, and webpages, you should italicize them. Capitalize words as you would for an article title in a reference, e.g., In the book Crying in H Mart: A memoir , author Michelle Zauner (2021) describes her biracial origin and its impact on her identity.

Article or Chapter: When you refer to the title of a part of a work, such as an article or a chapter, put quotation marks around the title and capitalize it as you would for a journal title in a reference, e.g., In the chapter “Where’s the Wine,” Zauner (2021) describes how she decided to become a musician.

The APA Sample Paper below has more information about formatting your paper.

• APA 7th ed. Sample Paper

Film or Video

When the Director, Producer and/or Writer is known:

Director/Producer/Writer's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if given. (Job Title). (Year film was produced).  Title of film: Subtitle if any  [Film]. Production Company.

Note: If not produced in the United States, list the city name and the country.

Hallam, J. (Producer, Writer), & Lam, K. (Producer, Director). (2010).  Staff relations in healthcare: Working as a team  [Film]. Insight Media.

• When you have more than one producer, writer and/or writer to credit, separate the names with a comma and put an ampersand (&) before the last person's last name.
• Serling, R. (Executive Producer). (1959–1964). The twilight zone [TV series]. Cayuga Productions; CBS Productions.

In-Text Paraphrase:

(Producer/Director/Writer's Last Name, Year)

Example: (Hallam & Lam, 2010)

Note: This example has two people to credit, so both last names are given)

In-Text Quote:

(Producer/Director/Writer's Last Name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Hallam & Lam, 2010, 2:30)

Note: Because the timestamp serves the same purpose in a video as page numbers, paragraph numbers or section headings, you include it in the in-text citation. Include only the beginning timestamp.

When the Director, Producer and/or Writer is not known:  Start the citation with the film title.

Title of film: Subtitle if any  [Film]. (Year film was produced). Production Company if Known.

Era of viruses  [Film]. (2006). Films for the Humanities and Sciences.

( Title of Film , Year)

Example: ( Era of Viruses , 2006)

Note: Italicize the title of the film and capitalize the words for the in-text citation.

( Title of Film , Year, Timestamp)

Example: ( Era of Viruses , 2006, 40:00)

When the Poster's Name is known: 

Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial. of person who posted the video if known. [User name that posted the video]. (Year video was posted, Month Day).  Title of video  [Video]. Website Name. URL

Note: According to APA, for citing purposes the person who posted the video is credited as the author.

Nye, B. [TheRealBillNye]. (2009, April 8).  Bill Nye the science guy on energy  [Video]. YouTube. http://youtu.be/0ASLLiuejAo

(Creator's Last Name, Year)

Example: (Nye, 2009)

(Creator's Last Name, Year, timestamp)

Example: (Nye, 2009, 0:55)

When the Poster's Name is not known: 

User name that posted the video. (Year video was posted, Month Day).  Title of video  [Video]. Website Name. URL

All Aces Media. (2012, January 19).  Often awesome the series  [Video]. Vimeo. http://vimeo.com/35311255

(User name, Year)

Example: (All Aces Media, 2012)

Example: (All Aces Media, 2012, timestamp)

Producer's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Producer). (Year of Publication).  Title of Video  [Video]. Website Name. URL

Note:  When you have one producer (Producer) is used after the producer's name. If you have more than one producer use (Producers) instead.

Allen, T., et. al. (Producers). (2017). The story of Diana  [Video]. Netflix. http://www.netflix.com

(Producer Last name, Year)

Example: (Allen, et. al., 2017)

(Producer Last name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Allen, et. al., 2017, 6:45)

Name of Company/Organization that Provided Content or Creator's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial. if known. (Year video was created, Month Day if known).  Title of video  [Video]. Database Name.

National Film Board of Canada. (2014).  Making movie history: The women  [Video]. NFB Campus. 

(Name of Company/Organization, Year)

Example: (National Film Board of Canada, 2014)

(Name of Company/Organization, Year, Timestamp)

Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if given. (Job Title) if known. (Year the episode was originally aired). Title of episode (Season No., Episode No.) [TV series episode]. In Executive Producer's First Initial. Last Name (Executive producer) if known,  Television series name . Production Company.

Note: For other countries, list the city name and the country.

Young, R. (Writer, Producer, Director). (2010). Flying cheap (Season 2010, Episode 2) [TV series episode]. In  Frontline . American University School of Communication's Investigative Reporting Workshop.

(Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, Year)

Example: (Young, 2010)

(Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Young, 2010, 15:38)

Television Series Episode Viewed on a Subscription Media Website 

Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if given. (Job Title) if known. (Year the episode was originally aired). Title of episode (Season No., Episode No.) [TV series episode]. In Executive Producer's First Initial. Last Name (Executive producer) if known,  Television series name . Streaming Video Site. URL

Attenborough, D. (Writer). (2001). Ocean world (Season 1, Episode 1) [TV series episode]. In A. Fothergill (Executive producer),  Blue planet: A natural history of the oceans . Netflix. http://www.netflix.com

Example: (Attenborough, 2001)

 (Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Attenborough, 2001, 10:12)

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Film Analysis: Example, Format, and Outline + Topics & Prompts

Films are never just films. Instead, they are influential works of art that can evoke a wide range of emotions, spark meaningful conversations, and provide insightful commentary on society and culture. As a student, you may be tasked with writing a film analysis essay, which requires you to delve deeper into the characters and themes. But where do you start?

In this article, our expert team has explored strategies for writing a successful film analysis essay. From prompts for this assignment to an excellent movie analysis example, we’ll provide you with everything you need to craft an insightful film analysis paper.

• 📽️ Film Analysis Definition

📚 Types of Film Analysis

• ✍️ How to Write Film Analysis
• 🎞️ Movie Analysis Prompts
• 🎬 Top 15 Topics

📝 Film Analysis Example

• 🍿 More Examples

🔗 References

📽️ what is a film analysis essay.

A film analysis essay is a type of academic writing that critically examines a film, its themes, characters, and techniques used by the filmmaker. This essay aims to analyze the film’s meaning, message, and artistic elements and explain its cultural, social, and historical significance. It typically requires a writer to pay closer attention to aspects such as cinematography, editing, sound, and narrative structure.

Film Analysis vs Film Review

It’s common to confuse a film analysis with a film review, though these are two different types of writing. A film analysis paper focuses on the film’s narrative, sound, editing, and other elements. This essay aims to explore the film’s themes, symbolism , and underlying messages and to provide an in-depth interpretation of the film.

On the other hand, a film review is a brief evaluation of a film that provides the writer’s overall opinion of the movie. It includes the story’s short summary, a description of the acting, direction, and technical aspects, and a recommendation on whether or not the movie is worth watching.

Wondering what you should focus on when writing a movie analysis essay? Here are four main types of film analysis. Check them out!

📋 Film Analysis Format

The movie analysis format follows a typical essay structure, including a title, introduction, thesis statement, body, conclusion, and references.

The most common citation styles used for a film analysis are MLA and Chicago . However, we recommend you consult with your professor for specific guidelines. Remember to cite all dialogue and scene descriptions from the movie to support the analysis. The reference list should include the analyzed film and any external sources mentioned in the essay.

When referring to a specific movie in your paper, you should italicize the film’s name and use the title case. Don’t enclose the title of the movie in quotation marks.

📑 Film Analysis Essay Outline

A compelling film analysis outline is crucial as it helps make the writing process more focused and the content more insightful for the readers. Below, you’ll find the description of the main parts of the movie analysis essay.

Film Analysis Introduction

Many students experience writer’s block because they don’t know how to write an introduction for a film analysis. The truth is that the opening paragraph for a film analysis paper is similar to any other academic essay:

• Start with a hook to grab the reader’s attention . For example, it can be a fascinating fact or a thought-provoking question related to the film.
• Provide background information about the movie . Introduce the film, including its title, director, and release date. Follow this with a brief summary of the film’s plot and main themes.
• End the introduction with an analytical thesis statement . Present the central argument or interpretation that will be explored in the analysis.

Film Analysis Thesis

If you wonder how to write a thesis for a film analysis, we’ve got you! A thesis statement should clearly present your main idea related to the film and provide a roadmap for the rest of the essay. Your thesis should be specific, concise, and focused. In addition, it should be debatable so that others can present a contrasting point of view. Also, make sure it is supported with evidence from the film.

Let’s come up with a film analysis thesis example:

Through a feminist lens, Titanic is a story about Rose’s rebellion against traditional gender roles, showcasing her attempts to assert her autonomy and refusal to conform to societal expectations prevalent in the early 20th century.

Movie Analysis Main Body

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the film that supports your main idea. These aspects include themes, characters, narrative devices , or cinematic techniques. You should also provide evidence from the film to support your analysis, such as quotes, scene descriptions, or specific visual or auditory elements.

Here are two things to avoid in body paragraphs:

• Film review . Your analysis should focus on specific movie aspects rather than your opinion of the film.
• Excessive plot summary . While it’s important to provide some context for the analysis, a lengthy plot summary can detract you from your main argument and analysis of the film.

Film Analysis Conclusion

In the conclusion of a movie analysis, restate the thesis statement to remind the reader of the main argument. Additionally, summarize the main points from the body to reinforce the key aspects of the film that were discussed. The conclusion should also provide a final thought or reflection on the film, tying together the analysis and presenting your perspective on its overall meaning.

✍️ How to Write a Film Analysis Essay

Writing a film analysis essay can be challenging since it requires a deep understanding of the film, its themes, and its characters. However, with the right approach, you can create a compelling analysis that offers insight into the film’s meaning and impact. To help you, we’ve prepared a small guide.

1. Understand the Prompt

When approaching a film analysis essay, it is crucial to understand the prompt provided by your professor. For example, suppose your professor asks you to analyze the film from the perspective of Marxist criticism or psychoanalytic film theory . In that case, it is essential to familiarize yourself with these approaches. This may involve studying these theories and identifying how they can be applied to the film.

If your professor did not provide specific guidelines, you will need to choose a film yourself and decide on the aspect you will explore. Whether it is the film’s themes, characters, cinematography, or social context, having a clear focus will help guide your analysis.

2. Watch the Film & Take Notes

Keep your assignment prompt in mind when watching the film for your analysis. For example, if you are analyzing the film from a feminist perspective, you should pay attention to the portrayal of female characters, power dynamics , and gender roles within the film.

As you watch the movie, take notes on key moments, dialogues, and scenes relevant to your analysis. Additionally, keeping track of the timecodes of important scenes can be beneficial, as it allows you to quickly revisit specific moments in the film for further analysis.

3. Develop a Thesis and an Outline

Next, develop a thesis statement for your movie analysis. Identify the central argument or perspective you want to convey about the film. For example, you can focus on the film’s themes, characters, plot, cinematography, or other outstanding aspects. Your thesis statement should clearly present your stance and provide a preview of the points you will discuss in your analysis.

Having created a thesis, you can move on to the outline for an analysis. Write down all the arguments that can support your thesis, logically organize them, and then look for the supporting evidence in the movie.

4. Write Your Movie Analysis

When writing a film analysis paper, try to offer fresh and original ideas on the film that go beyond surface-level observations. If you need some inspiration, have a look at these thought-provoking questions:

• How does the movie evoke emotional responses from the audience through sound, editing, character development , and camera work?
• Is the movie’s setting portrayed in a realistic or stylized manner? What atmosphere or mood does the setting convey to the audience?
• How does the lighting in the movie highlight certain aspects? How does the lighting impact the audience’s perception of the movie’s characters, spaces, or overall mood?
• What role does the music play in the movie? How does it create specific emotional effects for the audience?
• What underlying values or messages does the movie convey? How are these values communicated to the audience?

5. Revise and Proofread

To revise and proofread a film analysis essay, review the content for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Ensure the paper flows logically and each paragraph contributes to the overall analysis. Remember to double-check that you haven’t missed any in-text citations and have enough evidence and examples from the movie to support your arguments.

Consider seeking feedback from a peer or instructor to get an outside perspective on the essay. Another reader can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.

🎞️ Movie Analysis: Sample Prompts

Now that we’ve covered the essential aspects of a film analysis template, it’s time to choose a topic. Here are some prompts to help you select a film for your analysis.

• Metropolis film analysis essay . When analyzing this movie, you can explore the themes of technology and society or the portrayal of class struggle. You can also focus on symbolism, visual effects, and the influence of German expressionism on the film’s aesthetic.
• The Godfather film analysis essay . An epic crime film, The Godfather , allows you to analyze the themes of power and corruption, the portrayal of family dynamics, and the influence of Italian neorealism on the film’s aesthetic. You can also examine the movie’s historical context and impact on future crime dramas.
• Psycho film analysis essay . Consider exploring the themes of identity and duality, the use of suspense and tension in storytelling, or the portrayal of mental illness. You can also explore the impact of this movie on the horror genre.
• Forrest Gump film analysis essay . If you decide to analyze the Forrest Gump movie, you can focus on the portrayal of historical events. You might also examine the use of nostalgia in storytelling, the character development of the protagonist, and the film’s impact on popular culture and American identity.
• The Great Gatsby film analysis essay . The Great Gatsby is a historical drama film that allows you to analyze the themes of the American Dream, wealth, and class. You can also explore the portrayal of the 1920s Jazz Age and the symbolism of the green light.
• Persepolis film analysis essay . In a Persepolis film analysis essay, you can uncover the themes of identity and self-discovery. You might also consider analyzing the portrayal of the Iranian Revolution and its aftermath, the use of animation as a storytelling device, and the film’s influence on the graphic novel genre.

🎬 Top 15 Film Analysis Essay Topics

• The use of color symbolism in Vertigo and its impact on the narrative.
• The moral ambiguity and human nature in No Country for Old Men .
• The portrayal of ethnicity in Gran Torino and its commentary on cultural stereotypes.
• The cinematography and visual effects in The Hunger Games and their contribution to the dystopian atmosphere.
• The use of silence and sound design in A Quiet Place to immerse the audience.
• The disillusionment and existential crisis in The Graduate and its reflection of the societal norms of the 1960s.
• The themes of sacrifice and patriotism in Casablanca and their relevance to the historical context of World War II.
• The psychological horror in The Shining and its impact on the audience’s experience of fear and tension.
• The exploration of existentialism in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind .
• Multiple perspectives and unreliable narrators in Rashomon .
• The music and soundtrack in Titanic and its contribution to the film’s emotional resonance.
• The portrayal of good versus evil in the Harry Potter film series and its impact on understanding morality.
• The incorporation of vibrant colors in The Grand Budapest Hotel as a visual motif.
• The use of editing techniques to tell a nonlinear narrative in Pulp Fiction .
• The function of music and score in enhancing the emotional impact in Schindler’s List .

Check out the Get Out film analysis essay we’ve prepared for college and high school students. We hope this movie analysis essay example will inspire you and help you understand the structure of this assignment better.

Film Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Get Out, released in 2017 and directed by Jordan Peele, is a culturally significant horror film that explores themes of racism, identity, and social commentary. The film follows Chris, a young African-American man, visiting his white girlfriend’s family for the weekend. This essay will analyze how, through its masterful storytelling, clever use of symbolism, and thought-provoking narrative, Get Out reveals the insidious nature of racism in modern America.

Film Analysis Body Paragraphs Example

Throughout the movie, Chris’s character is subject to various types of microaggression and subtle forms of discrimination. These instances highlight the insidious nature of racism, showing how it can exist even in seemingly progressive environments. For example, during Chris’s visit to his white girlfriend’s family, the parents continuously make racially insensitive comments, expressing their admiration for black physical attributes and suggesting a fascination bordering on fetishization. This sheds light on some individuals’ objectification and exotification of black bodies.

Get Out also critiques the performative allyship of white liberals who claim to be accepting and supportive of the black community. It is evident in the character of Rose’s father, who proclaims: “I would have voted for Obama for a third term if I could” (Peele, 2017). However, the film exposes how this apparent acceptance can mask hidden prejudices and manipulation.

Film Analysis Conclusion Example

In conclusion, the film Get Out provides a searing critique of racial discrimination and white supremacy through its compelling narrative, brilliant performances, and skillful direction. By exploring the themes of the insidious nature of racism, fetishization, and performative allyship, Get Out not only entertains but also challenges viewers to reflect on their own biases.

🍿 More Film Analysis Examples

• Social Psychology Theories in The Experiment
• Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader: George Lukas’s Star Wars Review
• Girl, Interrupted : Mental Illness Analysis
• Mental Disorders in the Finding Nemo Film
• One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Film: Interpretive Psychological Analysis
• Analysis of Spielberg’s Film Lincoln
• Glory – The Drama Movie by Edward Zwick
• Inventors in The Men Who Built America Series
• Crash Movie: Racism as a Theme
• Dances with Wolves Essay – Movie Analysis
• Superbad by G. Mottola
• Ordinary People Analysis and Maslow Hierarchy of Needs
• A Review of the Movie An Inconvenient Truth by Guggenheim
• Chaplin’s Modern Times and H.G. Wells’s The Island of Dr. Moreau
• Misé-En-Scene and Camera Shots in The King’s Speech
• Children’s Sexuality in the Out in the Dark Film
• Chinese and American Women in Joy Luck Club Novel and Film
• The Film Silver Linings Playbook by Russell
• The Role of Music in the Films The Hours and The Third Man
• The Social Network : Film Analysis
• My Neighbor Totoro : Film by Hayao Miyazaki
• Marriage Story Film Directed by Noah Baumbach

❓ Film Analysis Essay: FAQ

Why is film analysis important.

Film analysis allows viewers to go beyond the surface level and delve into the deeper layers of a film’s narrative, themes, and technical aspects. It enables a critical examination that enhances appreciation and understanding of the film’s message, cultural significance, and artistic value. At the same time, writing a movie analysis essay can boost your critical thinking and ability to spot little details.

How to write a movie analysis?

• Watch the film multiple times to grasp its key elements.
• Take notes on the story, characters, and themes.
• Pay attention to the film’s cinematography, editing, sound, message, symbolism, and social context.
• Formulate a strong thesis statement that presents your main argument.
• Support your claims with evidence from the film.

How to write a critical analysis of a movie?

A critical analysis of a movie involves evaluating its elements, such as plot, themes, characters, and cinematography, and providing an informed opinion on its strengths and weaknesses. To write it, watch the movie attentively, take notes, develop a clear thesis statement, support arguments with evidence, and balance the positive and negative.

How to write a psychological analysis of a movie?

A psychological analysis of a movie examines characters’ motivations, behaviors, and emotional experiences. To write it, analyze the characters’ psychological development, their relationships, and the impact of psychological themes conveyed in the film. Support your analysis with psychological theories and evidence from the movie.

• Film Analysis | UNC Writing Center
• Psychological Analysis of Films | Steemit
• Critical Film Analysis | University of Hawaii
• Questions to Ask of Any Film | All American High School Film Festival
• Resources – How to Write a Film Analysis | Northwestern
• Film Analysis | University of Toronto
• Film Writing: Sample Analysis | Purdue Online Writing Lab
• Film Analysis Web Site 2.0 | Yale University
• Questions for Film Analysis | University of Washington
• Film & Media Studies Resources: Types of Film Analysis | Bowling Green State University
• Film & Media Studies Resources: Researching a Film | Bowling Green State University
• Motion Picture Analysis Worksheet | University of Houston
• Reviews vs Film Criticism | The University of Vermont Libraries
• Television and Film Analysis Questions | University of Michigan
• How to Write About Film: The Movie Review, the Theoretical Essay, and the Critical Essay | University of Colorado

Descriptive Essay Topics: Examples, Outline, & More

371 fun argumentative essay topics for 2024.

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• How to cite a movie in MLA

How to Cite a Movie in MLA Style | Format & Examples

Published on August 1, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on March 5, 2024.

To cite a film in MLA, include the title, the director, any other relevant contributors, the production or distribution company, and the year of release. If there are multiple versions of a film, you also need to identify the version.

To cite a movie from Netflix (and similar online streaming services), add the name of the website or app (e.g. “Netflix app”). If you watched the movie on an unofficial website or video-sharing platform like YouTube, add the website name, the uploader, the date of upload, and the URL.

In the MLA in-text citation , include the title (or a shortened version of it) and the time range.

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Table of contents

Mla movie citation format, citing online movies, mla in-text citations for movies.

You build an MLA Works Cited entry by filling in the relevant elements. An MLA citation usually starts with the author’s name, but because films are created by many different people, you start the citation with the film’s title instead. The director appears after the title as a contributor.

Other contributors

If relevant, you can also add other contributors, as with TV shows . For example, if your paper mentions specific performances, you can include the actors in your citation; if you discuss the film’s visuals, you can include the cinematographer.

Identify the role of each contributor and separate them with commas.

If your discussion of the movie focuses mainly on one contributor (e.g. the director or a performer), you can choose to include that name at the start of the citation instead, where the author would normally go.

In this case, make sure to use the same name in your in-text citation.

If there are different versions of a film, you need to state which one you used so the reader can find the correct source (e.g. extended version, director’s cut).

If this version was released later than the original, you can also add the year of the original release after the title. This is optional, but it is often helpful to give the historical context of the source.

Films are often produced and distributed by several different companies, which can make it difficult to determine the publisher .

Try to identify the organization that had primary responsibility for the movie’s production or distribution. If multiple production companies and/or distributors were equally involved, you can separate them with a forward slash.

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If you stream a film on an official distribution platform like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, you can choose to add information about the platform to the Works Cited entry if you think it’s relevant.

If the film was republished on a website unconnected to the producers or official distributors (such as YouTube, where anyone can upload a copy of a movie), you should generally include this information in the citation.

After giving full details of the movie, add the name of the website , the uploader , the date it was published, and the URL .

Note that this format only applies to full movies uploaded to YouTube. If you are citing a clip or other material on YouTube, follow the format for citing a YouTube video instead.

The in-text citation must always correspond with the first word of the Works Cited entry. For movie citations, this is usually the title in italics. If the title is longer than a few words, shorten it to the first word or phrase.

Instead of a page number, add the time range of the part you are quoting or referring to.

If you have already mentioned the title in the sentence, the parenthetical citation only needs to include the time range.

If you are referring to the movie as a whole, it is acceptable to mention only the title with no time range.

If you start the Works Cited entry with the name of a contributor , make sure to use this name in the in-text citation so that the reader can easily locate it in the alphabetized list.

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McCombes, S. (2024, March 05). How to Cite a Movie in MLA Style | Format & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 21, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/mla/how-to-cite-a-movie/

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Film Writing: Sample Analysis

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Introductory Note

The analysis below discusses the opening moments of the science fiction movie  Ex Machina  in order to make an argument about the film's underlying purpose. The text of the analysis is formatted normally. Editor's commentary, which will occasionally interrupt the piece to discuss the author's rhetorical strategies, is written in brackets in an italic font with a bold "Ed.:" identifier. See the examples below:

The text of the analysis looks like this.

[ Ed.:  The editor's commentary looks like this. ]

Frustrated Communication in Ex Machina ’s Opening Sequence

Alex Garland’s 2015 science fiction film Ex Machina follows a young programmer’s attempts to determine whether or not an android possesses a consciousness complicated enough to pass as human. The film is celebrated for its thought-provoking depiction of the anxiety over whether a nonhuman entity could mimic or exceed human abilities, but analyzing the early sections of the film, before artificial intelligence is even introduced, reveals a compelling examination of humans’ inability to articulate their thoughts and feelings. In its opening sequence, Ex Machina establishes that it’s not only about the difficulty of creating a machine that can effectively talk to humans, but about human beings who struggle to find ways to communicate with each other in an increasingly digital world.

[ Ed.:  The piece's opening introduces the film with a plot summary that doesn't give away too much and a brief summary of the critical conversation that has centered around the film. Then, however, it deviates from this conversation by suggesting that Ex Machina has things to say about humanity before non-human characters even appear. Off to a great start. ]

The film’s first establishing shots set the action in a busy modern office. A woman sits at a computer, absorbed in her screen. The camera looks at her through a glass wall, one of many in the shot. The reflections of passersby reflected in the glass and the workspace’s dim blue light make it difficult to determine how many rooms are depicted. The camera cuts to a few different young men typing on their phones, their bodies partially concealed both by people walking between them and the camera and by the stylized modern furniture that surrounds them. The fourth shot peeks over a computer monitor at a blonde man working with headphones in. A slight zoom toward his face suggests that this is an important character, and the cut to a point-of-view shot looking at his computer screen confirms this. We later learn that this is Caleb Smith (Domhnall Gleeson), a young programmer whose perspective the film follows.

The rest of the sequence cuts between shots from Caleb’s P.O.V. and reaction shots of his face, as he receives and processes the news that he has won first prize in a staff competition. Shocked, Caleb dives for his cellphone and texts several people the news. Several people immediately respond with congratulatory messages, and after a moment the woman from the opening shot runs in to give him a hug. At this point, the other people in the room look up, smile, and start clapping, while Caleb smiles disbelievingly—perhaps even anxiously—and the camera subtly zooms in a bit closer. Throughout the entire sequence, there is no sound other than ambient electronic music that gets slightly louder and more textured as the sequence progresses. A jump cut to an aerial view of a glacial landscape ends the sequence and indicates that Caleb is very quickly transported into a very unfamiliar setting, implying that he will have difficulty adjusting to this sudden change in circumstances.

[ Ed.:  These paragraphs are mostly descriptive. They give readers the information they will need to understand the argument the piece is about to offer. While passages like this can risk becoming boring if they dwell on unimportant details, the author wisely limits herself to two paragraphs and maintains a driving pace through her prose style choices (like an almost exclusive reliance on active verbs). ]

Without any audible dialogue or traditional expository setup of the main characters, this opening sequence sets viewers up to make sense of Ex Machina ’s visual style and its exploration of the ways that technology can both enhance and limit human communication. The choice to make the dialogue inaudible suggests that in-person conversations have no significance. Human-to-human conversations are most productive in this sequence when they are mediated by technology. Caleb’s first response when he hears his good news is to text his friends rather than tell the people sitting around him, and he makes no move to take his headphones out when the in-person celebration finally breaks out. Everyone in the building is on their phones, looking at screens, or has headphones in, and the camera is looking at screens through Caleb’s viewpoint for at least half of the sequence.  

Rather than simply muting the specific conversations that Caleb has with his coworkers, the ambient soundtrack replaces all the noise that a crowded building in the middle of a workday would ordinarily have. This silence sets the uneasy tone that characterizes the rest of the film, which is as much a horror-thriller as a piece of science fiction. Viewers get the sense that all the sounds that humans make as they walk around and talk to each other are being intentionally filtered out by some presence, replaced with a quiet electronic beat that marks the pacing of the sequence, slowly building to a faster tempo. Perhaps the sound of people is irrelevant: only the visual data matters here. Silence is frequently used in the rest of the film as a source of tension, with viewers acutely aware that it could be broken at any moment. Part of the horror of the research bunker, which will soon become the film’s primary setting, is its silence, particularly during sequences of Caleb sneaking into restricted areas and being startled by a sudden noise.

The visual style of this opening sequence reinforces the eeriness of the muted humans and electronic soundtrack. Prominent use of shallow focus to depict a workspace that is constructed out of glass doors and walls makes it difficult to discern how large the space really is. The viewer is thus spatially disoriented in each new setting. This layering of glass and mirrors, doubling some images and obscuring others, is used later in the film when Caleb meets the artificial being Ava (Alicia Vikander), who is not allowed to leave her glass-walled living quarters in the research bunker. The similarity of these spaces visually reinforces the film’s late revelation that Caleb has been manipulated by Nathan Bates (Oscar Isaac), the troubled genius who creates Ava.

[ Ed.:  In these paragraphs, the author cites the information about the scene she's provided to make her argument. Because she's already teased the argument in the introduction and provided an account of her evidence, it doesn't strike us as unreasonable or far-fetched here. Instead, it appears that we've naturally arrived at the same incisive, fascinating points that she has. ]

A few other shots in the opening sequence more explicitly hint that Caleb is already under Nathan’s control before he ever arrives at the bunker. Shortly after the P.O.V shot of Caleb reading the email notification that he won the prize, we cut to a few other P.O.V. shots, this time from the perspective of cameras in Caleb’s phone and desktop computer. These cameras are not just looking at Caleb, but appear to be scanning him, as the screen flashes in different color lenses and small points appear around Caleb’s mouth, eyes, and nostrils, tracking the smallest expressions that cross his face. These small details indicate that Caleb is more a part of this digital space than he realizes, and also foreshadow the later revelation that Nathan is actively using data collected by computers and webcams to manipulate Caleb and others. The shots from the cameras’ perspectives also make use of a subtle fisheye lens, suggesting both the wide scope of Nathan’s surveillance capacities and the slightly distorted worldview that motivates this unethical activity.

[ Ed.: This paragraph uses additional details to reinforce the piece's main argument. While this move may not be as essential as the one in the preceding paragraphs, it does help create the impression that the author is noticing deliberate patterns in the film's cinematography, rather than picking out isolated coincidences to make her points. ]

Taken together, the details of Ex Machina ’s stylized opening sequence lay the groundwork for the film’s long exploration of the relationship between human communication and technology. The sequence, and the film, ultimately suggests that we need to develop and use new technologies thoughtfully, or else the thing that makes us most human—our ability to connect through language—might be destroyed by our innovations. All of the aural and visual cues in the opening sequence establish a world in which humans are utterly reliant on technology and yet totally unaware of the nefarious uses to which a brilliant but unethical person could put it.

Author's Note:  Thanks to my literature students whose in-class contributions sharpened my thinking on this scene .

[ Ed.: The piece concludes by tying the main themes of the opening sequence to those of the entire film. In doing this, the conclusion makes an argument for the essay's own relevance: we need to pay attention to the essay's points so that we can achieve a rich understanding of the movie. The piece's final sentence makes a chilling final impression by alluding to the danger that might loom if we do not understand the movie. This is the only the place in the piece where the author explicitly references how badly we might be hurt by ignorance, and it's all the more powerful for this solitary quality. A pithy, charming note follows, acknowledging that the author's work was informed by others' input (as most good writing is). Beautifully done. ]

Step By Step Guide to Writing an Essay on Film

By Film Threat Staff | December 29, 2021

Writing an essay about a film sounds like a fun assignment to do. As part of the assignment, you get to watch the movie and write an analytical essay about your impressions. However, you will soon find that you’re staring at an empty sheet of paper or computer screen with no idea what to write, how to start writing your essay, or the essential points that need to be covered and analyzed. As an  essay writing service proves, watching the movie countless times isn’t all there is to write a film analysis essay. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with an essay service :

1. Watch the Movie

This is the obvious starting point, but surprisingly many students skip this step. It doesn’t matter if you’ve watched the movie twice before. If you’re asked to write an essay about it, you need to watch it again. Watching the film again allows you to pay more attention to specific elements to help you write an in-depth analysis about it.  

Watching the movie is crucial because it helps you not specific parts of the movie that can be used as illustrations and examples in your essay. You’re also going to explore and analyze the movie theme within your structured plan. Some of the critical elements that you have to look out for while watching the movie that may be crucial for your essay are:

• Key plot moments
• Editing style
• Stylistic elements
• Scenario execution
• Musical elements

2. Introduction

Your introduction will contain essential information about the film, such as the title, release date, director’s name, etc. This familiarizes the reader with the movie’s primary background information. In addition, researching the filmmaker may be crucial for your essay because it may help you discover valuable insights for your film analysis.

The introduction should also mention the movie’s central theme and explain why you think it was made that way.

Do not forget to include your thesis statement, which explains your focus on the movie.

3. Write a Summary

According to an  essay writing service  providing students   help with essays , a movie summary comes after the introduction. It includes the film’s basic premise, but it doesn’t have to reveal too many details about the film. It’s a summary, after all. Write the summary like your readers have not heard about the movie before, so you can mention the most basic plots but assume you have minimal time so you won’t be going into great details.

4. Write Your Analysis

This is the central part of the essay in which you analyze the movie critically and state your impressions about the film. Ensure to support your claims with relevant materials from the movie.

There are also several creative elements in a movie that are connected to make the film a whole. You must pay attention to these elements while watching the movie and analyze them in this part of the essay.

In this, you are looking out for the dialogs, character development, completion of scenes, and logical event sequences in the film to analyze.

Ensure you try to understand the logic behind events in the film and the actor’s motives to explain the scenario better.

The responsibility of different parts of the movie, such as plan selection and scenario execution, falls on the director. So, your analysis here focuses on how the director realized the script compared to his other movies. Understanding the director’s style of directing may be crucial to coming up with a conclusion relevant to your analysis and thesis.

The casting of a film is a significant element to consider in your essay. Without a great actor, the scriptwriter and director can’t bring their ideas to life. So, watch the actor’s acting and determine if they portrayed the character effectively and if their acting aligns with the film’s main idea.

• Musical element

A movie’s musical element enhances some of the sceneries or actions in the film and sets the mood. It has a massive impact on the movie, so it’s an essential element to analyze in your essay.

• Visual elements

This includes special effects, make-up, costumes, etc., which significantly impact the film. These elements must reflect the film’s atmosphere. It is even more crucial for historical movies since it has to be specific about an era.

Ensure to analyze elements relevant to your thesis statement, so you don’t drift from your main point.

5. Conclusion

In concluding your essay, you have to summarize the primary concepts more convincingly to support your analysis. Finally, you may include a CTA for readers to watch or avoid the movie.

These are the crucial steps to take when writing an essay about a film . Knowing this beforehand prevents you from struggling to start writing after watching the movie.

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It’s really amazing instructions! I have got the great knowledge.

[…] now and then. Unfortunately, not all of us can afford to get cinema tickets to do so.  Some…Writing an essay about a film sounds like a fun assignment to do. As part of the assignment, you get…Since a few decades the film and entertainment sector have undergone some drastic transformation. […]

I can’t list the number of essays that don’t follow this format in the least. But then I find most reviews of movies terrible and most people who purport themselves to be writers as people who need to spend more time drafting and editing before publishing.

Thanks for this

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Film Analysis

What this handout is about.

This handout introduces film analysis and and offers strategies and resources for approaching film analysis assignments.

Writing the film analysis essay

Writing a film analysis requires you to consider the composition of the film—the individual parts and choices made that come together to create the finished piece. Film analysis goes beyond the analysis of the film as literature to include camera angles, lighting, set design, sound elements, costume choices, editing, etc. in making an argument. The first step to analyzing the film is to watch it with a plan.

Watching the film

First it’s important to watch the film carefully with a critical eye. Consider why you’ve been assigned to watch a film and write an analysis. How does this activity fit into the course? Why have you been assigned this particular film? What are you looking for in connection to the course content? Let’s practice with this clip from Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo (1958). Here are some tips on how to watch the clip critically, just as you would an entire film:

• Give the clip your undivided attention at least once. Pay close attention to details and make observations that might start leading to bigger questions.
• Watch the clip a second time. For this viewing, you will want to focus specifically on those elements of film analysis that your class has focused on, so review your course notes. For example, from whose perspective is this clip shot? What choices help convey that perspective? What is the overall tone, theme, or effect of this clip?
• Take notes while you watch for the second time. Notes will help you keep track of what you noticed and when, if you include timestamps in your notes. Timestamps are vital for citing scenes from a film!

For more information on watching a film, check out the Learning Center’s handout on watching film analytically . For more resources on researching film, including glossaries of film terms, see UNC Library’s research guide on film & cinema .

Brainstorming ideas

Once you’ve watched the film twice, it’s time to brainstorm some ideas based on your notes. Brainstorming is a major step that helps develop and explore ideas. As you brainstorm, you may want to cluster your ideas around central topics or themes that emerge as you review your notes. Did you ask several questions about color? Were you curious about repeated images? Perhaps these are directions you can pursue.

If you’re writing an argumentative essay, you can use the connections that you develop while brainstorming to draft a thesis statement . Consider the assignment and prompt when formulating a thesis, as well as what kind of evidence you will present to support your claims. Your evidence could be dialogue, sound edits, cinematography decisions, etc. Much of how you make these decisions will depend on the type of film analysis you are conducting, an important decision covered in the next section.

After brainstorming, you can draft an outline of your film analysis using the same strategies that you would for other writing assignments. Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as you prepare for this stage of the assignment:

• Make sure you understand the prompt and what you are being asked to do. Remember that this is ultimately an assignment, so your thesis should answer what the prompt asks. Check with your professor if you are unsure.
• In most cases, the director’s name is used to talk about the film as a whole, for instance, “Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo .” However, some writers may want to include the names of other persons who helped to create the film, including the actors, the cinematographer, and the sound editor, among others.
• When describing a sequence in a film, use the literary present. An example could be, “In Vertigo , Hitchcock employs techniques of observation to dramatize the act of detection.”
• Finding a screenplay/script of the movie may be helpful and save you time when compiling citations. But keep in mind that there may be differences between the screenplay and the actual product (and these differences might be a topic of discussion!).
• Go beyond describing basic film elements by articulating the significance of these elements in support of your particular position. For example, you may have an interpretation of the striking color green in Vertigo , but you would only mention this if it was relevant to your argument. For more help on using evidence effectively, see the section on “using evidence” in our evidence handout .

Also be sure to avoid confusing the terms shot, scene, and sequence. Remember, a shot ends every time the camera cuts; a scene can be composed of several related shots; and a sequence is a set of related scenes.

Different types of film analysis

As you consider your notes, outline, and general thesis about a film, the majority of your assignment will depend on what type of film analysis you are conducting. This section explores some of the different types of film analyses you may have been assigned to write.

Semiotic analysis

Semiotic analysis is the interpretation of signs and symbols, typically involving metaphors and analogies to both inanimate objects and characters within a film. Because symbols have several meanings, writers often need to determine what a particular symbol means in the film and in a broader cultural or historical context.

For instance, a writer could explore the symbolism of the flowers in Vertigo by connecting the images of them falling apart to the vulnerability of the heroine.

Here are a few other questions to consider for this type of analysis:

• What objects or images are repeated throughout the film?
• How does the director associate a character with small signs, such as certain colors, clothing, food, or language use?
• How does a symbol or object relate to other symbols and objects, that is, what is the relationship between the film’s signs?

Many films are rich with symbolism, and it can be easy to get lost in the details. Remember to bring a semiotic analysis back around to answering the question “So what?” in your thesis.

Narrative analysis

Narrative analysis is an examination of the story elements, including narrative structure, character, and plot. This type of analysis considers the entirety of the film and the story it seeks to tell.

For example, you could take the same object from the previous example—the flowers—which meant one thing in a semiotic analysis, and ask instead about their narrative role. That is, you might analyze how Hitchcock introduces the flowers at the beginning of the film in order to return to them later to draw out the completion of the heroine’s character arc.

To create this type of analysis, you could consider questions like:

• How does the film correspond to the Three-Act Structure: Act One: Setup; Act Two: Confrontation; and Act Three: Resolution?
• What is the plot of the film? How does this plot differ from the narrative, that is, how the story is told? For example, are events presented out of order and to what effect?
• Does the plot revolve around one character? Does the plot revolve around multiple characters? How do these characters develop across the film?

When writing a narrative analysis, take care not to spend too time on summarizing at the expense of your argument. See our handout on summarizing for more tips on making summary serve analysis.

Cultural/historical analysis

One of the most common types of analysis is the examination of a film’s relationship to its broader cultural, historical, or theoretical contexts. Whether films intentionally comment on their context or not, they are always a product of the culture or period in which they were created. By placing the film in a particular context, this type of analysis asks how the film models, challenges, or subverts different types of relations, whether historical, social, or even theoretical.

For example, the clip from Vertigo depicts a man observing a woman without her knowing it. You could examine how this aspect of the film addresses a midcentury social concern about observation, such as the sexual policing of women, or a political one, such as Cold War-era McCarthyism.

A few of the many questions you could ask in this vein include:

• How does the film comment on, reinforce, or even critique social and political issues at the time it was released, including questions of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality?
• How might a biographical understanding of the film’s creators and their historical moment affect the way you view the film?
• How might a specific film theory, such as Queer Theory, Structuralist Theory, or Marxist Film Theory, provide a language or set of terms for articulating the attributes of the film?

Take advantage of class resources to explore possible approaches to cultural/historical film analyses, and find out whether you will be expected to do additional research into the film’s context.

Mise-en-scène analysis

A mise-en-scène analysis attends to how the filmmakers have arranged compositional elements in a film and specifically within a scene or even a single shot. This type of analysis organizes the individual elements of a scene to explore how they come together to produce meaning. You may focus on anything that adds meaning to the formal effect produced by a given scene, including: blocking, lighting, design, color, costume, as well as how these attributes work in conjunction with decisions related to sound, cinematography, and editing. For example, in the clip from Vertigo , a mise-en-scène analysis might ask how numerous elements, from lighting to camera angles, work together to present the viewer with the perspective of Jimmy Stewart’s character.

To conduct this type of analysis, you could ask:

• What effects are created in a scene, and what is their purpose?
• How does this scene represent the theme of the movie?
• How does a scene work to express a broader point to the film’s plot?

This detailed approach to analyzing the formal elements of film can help you come up with concrete evidence for more general film analysis assignments.

Reviewing your draft

Once you have a draft, it’s helpful to get feedback on what you’ve written to see if your analysis holds together and you’ve conveyed your point. You may not necessarily need to find someone who has seen the film! Ask a writing coach, roommate, or family member to read over your draft and share key takeaways from what you have written so far.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Aumont, Jacques, and Michel Marie. 1988. L’analyse Des Films . Paris: Nathan.

Media & Design Center. n.d. “Film and Cinema Research.” UNC University Libraries. Last updated February 10, 2021. https://guides.lib.unc.edu/filmresearch .

Oxford Royale Academy. n.d. “7 Ways to Watch Film.” Oxford Royale Academy. Accessed April 2021. https://www.oxford-royale.com/articles/7-ways-watch-films-critically/ .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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