Saturday, April 12, 2014

Cyber-Assignment for Happy, the film

Reflect on the film briefly (250 words), in preparation for a short essay on this film.

"The film addresses many of the fundamental issues we face in today’s society: how do we balance the allure of money, fame and social status with our needs for strong relationships, health and personal fulfillment?

Through remarkable human stories and cutting‐edge science, HAPPY leads us toward a deeper understanding of why and how we can pursue more fulfilling, healthier and happier lives" (http://www.thehappymovie.com/files/HAPPY-Press-Kit.pdf).

Students were asked to focus on 1-3 subjects (people) and 1-3 places to explore in an answer to the query about happiness.  

Use a citation in each paragraph of the three paragraphs: 1 free paraphrase. 1 shorter citation and 1 block quote.

Include a works cited for the film.

Longer Essay (500 words min.)  Due by Wednesday, April 23, 2014 coasabirenglish1A@gmail.com


For the essay, think about where the authors you have read, Rubin, the author or character in your book and the film references agree, disagree, agree and disagree on the topic "happiness."

How do the authors and director establish empathy within the audience for their topic, "happiness"? Use templates from They Say (read 92-100). Develop a relevant thesis.

Cite all three sources in MLA form (the film, Rubin and your author). Use one citation per source making a total of three: 1 paraphrase, 1 shorter citation, 1 block quote.

1 Comments:

Blogger Eleven Chrysanthemums said...

Yessica Beltran
Professor Wanda Sabir
English 1A
12 April 2014
“Happy” Free Write
The film Happy, directed by Roko Belic, is a film about what truly makes people happy opposed to what society says will make us happy. The idea for the film came from Tom Shadyac, the director of films such as Liar Liar and Bruce Almighty, wondering why The United States is ranked so low among a list of happiest countries. For the film they traveled to different countries and spoke to professionals in the fields of psychology, psychiatry, and so forth, as well as ordinary people with their thoughts on what makes them happy.
Throughout the film the concepts of health, close relationships, and volunteering are said to be great factors in one’s happiness. The crew traveled to the island of Okinawa, where most residents live to be older than one hundred. People reported that their happiness came from hard work. They grow their own vegetables and eat a healthy diet. They may not live in a big house or drive fancy cars, but they have each other and their health.
Half way through the film we meet Anne Bechsgaard, a woman who moved into a Danish community house. She believes that living with these other families has helped her become happier. She enjoys when they cook together and then sit down to eat dinner with each other. The sense of community has helped her cope with feelings of depression.
Near the end of the documentary we meet Andy Wimmer, a volunteer at Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying. He contributes most of his time to helping those residing here. He helps feed them and take care of them. He states that it is important for others to know that there are people who care. He reports being very happy with his life and being able to help others who are in need.
The film Happy has many inspiring stories about people who have overcome adversity and found ways to remain positive. It is a beautiful film that has reinforced my beliefs as to what will make me happy. It is always incredibly humbling to see people who might not have as much as I do, and yet are so happy. It reminds me of what is truly important in life. Creating social bonds and helping each other is very satisfying. I always tell myself that we have to believe in the goodness of people and this film reminds me why. We need each other and it is okay to acknowledge that.

9:01 PM  

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