The Blockbuster Movie - Lesson

Lesson Plan

Level(s): Grades 11 - 12

Author: This unit was created by Carol Wells as part of a Media Education course taught by John Pungente at the Faculty of Education, University of Toronto, 1993.

Overview

This lesson introduces students to the phenomenon of the“blockbuster” movie – its history,characteristics and influences. Students will also explore the role of audience in the creation of a “blockbuster” and analyze their own responses to current blockbuster films. Students will learn about the process involved in turning a film into a blockbuster by devising promotional campaigns for an imaginary movie.

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• understand the term "blockbuster movie" and its characteristics
• understand the social and political factors that contribute to this genre
• analyze their own responses to blockbuster films
• discuss the concept of audience with respect to the film/text
• consider the blockbuster as "event" encompassing many elements, and recognize it as a construction
• understand the steps involved in creating a blockbuster film

This lesson and all associated documents (handouts, overheads, backgrounders) are available in an easy-print, pdf kit version.

Lesson Kit:

Lesson_Blockbuster_Movie.pdf