MovieChat Forums > The Ladykillers (1956) Discussion > Writing an essay on the ladykillers and ...

Writing an essay on the ladykillers and need some help

posted 17 years ago by Peace_out_J_town_down
4 replies | jump to latest

I have written several hundred words already but need to get up to 1000 so would really appreciate some help...

I need to talk about...

>Identify what is distinctly British about the film?
>Consider the films genre and identify the intended audience for the film?
>Indicate how the film reflects or comments on the period in which it was made?
>What has been the critical reception of the film?
>Comment on the direction, script and dialogue?
>Declare and justify your opinion of the film?

Thanks guys any help would be great

[–] lizziesh 17 years ago

Hmm Im doing a similar essay, all I can say Ive got from my lecturer is that Mrs Wilberforce is supposed to represent the traditional, Victorian values that many people in Britain were trying to escape from. Her character is extreme in her morals and this makes them comical, Im guessing this is how many younger generations at the time saw a lot of their elders. Hmm sorry thats not very clear but hope it helps in some way!

[–] anthny_platt 8 years ago

Lord I despise this sort of 'education'.

I've seen political commentary and satire in my time. This film ain't it. If there's anything deep in here at all, it's the way we hire idiots as cops and the way we dismiss what our wise elders say out of hand.

Your professor is an idiot. Stop overthinking it and enjoy it.

[–] scutterluke 17 years ago

I am not sure when your essays are due in; and i might be a bit late, with this post, but try Charles Barr's book called ealing studios, this is excellent, and was the first real book about studying films as historical snapshots. also try screenonline a great website about British films.

As to the idea of Mrs Willberforce representing traditonal values their is also a school of thought, that the gang represent the post war Labour goverment, trying to break down traditional values, (the major is often compared to the Chancallor of the day as a bit weaker and soppy)

[–] d-simm470 17 years ago

sorry but all i cAN SAY IS Mrs Wilberforce RULES