Prepare an eight- to ten- page paper in which you utilize information from the course, textbook, and at least four scholarly sources (in addition to the textbook) to analyze one of the approved motion pictures listed below, in detail.

Prepare an eight- to ten- page paper in which you utilize information from the course, textbook, and at least four scholarly sources (in addition to the textbook) to analyze one of the approved motion pictures listed below, in detail. Specifically:

Explain the sociological processes you observe using two or more of the theories or models incorporated in this course (conflict theory, critical theory, cultural theory, feminist theory, gender classification model, etc.).
Discuss character examples of the personal functions of sports, including: a) feelings of belongingness and social identification; b) the socially acceptable outlet for hostile and aggressive feelings; and c) the role sport plays as a cultural element to bring meaning to life.
Examine aspects of extra-sport character behavior and determine if such behaviors support sports stereotypes and/or deviant characteristics (i.e., deviant over conformity or deviant under conformity). Be sure to use examples of specific behaviors and situations that you observed to help describe and explain (theoretically) how these social functions were demonstrated.
As you watch the film, take notes concerning not only what you saw and heard, but also anything that occurred that was surprising to you. These notes will help you when you write your paper in terms of remembering specific instances and/or insights concerning fan behavior. In your field notes, be sure to include such things as the time, date, location, and environment in which you viewed the film. Attach your field notes to your Final Paper.

The paper must be neatly formatted, double-spaced with a one-inch margin on the top, bottom, and sides of each page. When submitting hard copy, be sure to use white paper and print out using dark ink. If it is hard to read your essay, it will also be hard to follow your argument.
Approved motion pictures (you may request instructor approval if you would like to choose a different film*):

Mary Kom
Remember the Titans
Million Dollar Baby
Raging Bull
Invictus
On the Ropes
The Fighter
The Sandlot
The Blind Side
Hoop Dreams
Million Dollar Arm
Any Given Sunday
Rush
The Program
The Best of Men
Gracie
Bull Durham
*Special note: Sports comedies are not generally appropriate for this assignment.

SOC318455