Short documentary review: Indulgences of the West
Order Description
Link to video:
https://video.rmpbs.org/video/2365580031/
The Film:
A. What is the film about? Is the subject of the film clearly presented? Cite scenes or quotes when
you discuss the style. Do you feel the film is biased? Why? Is the thesis presented clearly? Is the
film intended for experts or for the general public?
B. Sources. Does the creator rely on published films and articles (secondary sources) or dig into
primary sources (government documents, newspapers, oral history interviews, letters, manuscript
collections, etc.) This should be very obvious when you watch! How well are the sources documented?
C. You may check reviews and other sources about the film/creator, but this is not a requirement.
If you choose to do so, consider how the film been received by other authors/scholars, and how the
creator’s ’s peers and viewers felt about it. Google ‘your film choice + reviews’ and you MAY find
a few critiques. If you cannot, do not fret- these are far more difficult to find than book
reviews!
The Creator or publisher:
A. Who is the creator? Identify his/her biographical and academic background. This may include a
list of their other films and employment. If no specific person is listed, identify the entity that
put it together. Check the film credits, or the publisher’s website for more author info, or
consult rmpbs.org.
B. Is the creator or publisher qualified to write on this topic? Does this film make an original
contribution with either new research or new interpretations? How does this film fit into the
existing literature on the topic? Why did the RMPBS (or whoever) produce this film? What are their
biases? How do they focus on major historical issues?
Your Personal Opinion:
Why did you like or dislike this film? What are its strengths and shortcomings? Was the film worth
watching? Explain why. Is there a better film on the same topic? Analyze, rather than summarize the
film. No film is perfect. How could this one be improved?
These are only GENERAL GUIDELINES. If something stands out or you feel is important, go for it!
Make it your own. 650-800 words, typed, double-spaced pages. Remember, if you consult other
sources, CITE THEM!