JMGC – at University (WEST SIDE STORY [the film] Exam)

  1. This is obviously based on a Shakespeare play. Which one and show the differences and similarities.
  2. The character of Tony is given a major character flaw (hubris) not seen in any other version of West Side Story – he committed a crime and went to jail for it. Why is this necessary for the final and most climactic moment of the play and how can we compare his actions to that of Oedipus?
  3. Explain the role of The Jets; The Sharks; and The Police in West Side Story from an historic and cultural standpoint.
  4. It seems the play is seen through the eyes of Anybody’s, who is now obviously Trans. Why do you think they made them Trans in this version?
  5. “Mrs. Doc” married Doc. This shows how the play COULD have a happy ending. But it doesn’t. WHY? The same can be said for the handshaking sequence in the bathroom at the gym. WHY?
  6. West Side Story deals with numerous cultures and social mores. Because of this, the dances (opening, dance at the gym, etc.) all seem to reflect frustration and anger. EXPLAIN.
  7. The building of Lincoln Center on top of the slum area shows the dark side of gentrification as well as the irony of the American cultural system.
  8. The character of Maria is given a staging scene with lipstick and then she kisses Tony as opposed to Tony kissing her. What is the significance of this in terms of the role of women on stage?
  9. West Side Story paved the way for Hamilton. Explain. 
  10. What part of the movie was the most memorable to you and why?

Each question should be answered FULLY.

DIRECTIONS:

  • Each question should be answered FULLY in no less than one paragraph. Thus, you are turning in 10 paragraphs. Please include a cover with your name clearly placed on it and include (at the end) References in APA style.
  • The paper needs to be EMAILED to me at jaymichaels1@gmail.com before Thursday, December 4 @ 5pm. I will not be accepting papers after that time as this should be considered as FINAL EXAM and has a finite window of time to be delivered to be fair to everyone.

Final project (in class): THE PLAY’S THE THING

  • Pick two other people
  • Write a one-page play
  • It must have
    • Dialogue
    • Stage Directions
    • A plot and a resolution.
    • Two of you should be acting in it and one should direct it.
  • This is due on the last day of class, Thursday, December 11.