Philosophical Film Analysis

A film analysis is NOT a “what it means to me” type of interpretation. It is a well-argued philosophical interpretation that uses the film like a text to explore the subtext, implications of philosophical ideas shown in the characters or action, and connects these ideas with philosophical ideas covered in class.
Directions:
Remember there has to be interaction with the normative ethical theories (Utilitarianism, Kantianism). You need to discuss the ethical theories, when it’s appropriate. For example, virtue ethics is not really used or assumed in the films (at least how I discussed virtue ethics). But if it’s relevant, you may mention virtue ethics, but the majority will focus on Utilitarianism and Kantianism. NOTE 1: Do not use cultural relativism in your paper because cultural relativism is a meta-ethical theory, not a normative theory. Also, merely saying, "that's ethical" or "that's not ethical" or "this film deals with ethics" is too general and will result in a low score. NOTE 2: Your paper should not be a list, but an essay. That is, it should NOT be like: “In the film there are utilitarian scenes. The first scene is in XXX where it is utilitarian because the consequences matter.” Notice, this is very general and does not explain much. Go deeper. How are the characters reasoning about moral issues. This is the important part, not just this is utilitarian and that is Kantian. Explain/analyze the character’s moral reasoning. Write a brief philosophical film analysis paper (around 2 pages) Use only one of the following films for Film Analysis Films with issues concerning Ethics
Crimson Tide: Be sure to discuss both the Captain and XO’s moral reasoning
Sophie’s Choice: Be sure to discuss Sophie’s moral reasoning concerning her biggest choice, but the moral reasoning behind her other choices. (Sophie makes more than one choice in the film. It’s a series of interrelated choices.)
Crimes and Misdemeanors:There will be a temptation to just list characters and some choices they make. Please do not give me a list. Rather pick a couple characters or a couple decisions (there are many) and go in depth in how the characters are making moral decisions, how they reason, what their motivations are, etc.