How to Analyze the Films of George Lucas

Gr 9 Up—These titles provide insight into what critical theory is and how popular films can be analyzed through different schools of criticism. There is also some basic biographical information provided about the filmmaker. Lucas looks at "How to Apply Historical Criticism to Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope," and feminist criticism to Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace. Cameron examines "How to Apply Marxist Criticism to Titanic" and postcolonial criticism to Avatar. Lee explains how to apply cultural criticism to Batman and biographical criticism to Edward Scissorhands. The authors do not overwhelm readers; instead they approach each critique by explaining the theories and supporting the arguments being presented. They all reinforce the importance of the thesis statement and the idea of supporting their arguments with critical thinking. Colorful photographs and movie stills appear throughout. Great additions for students beginning to study literature or film.—Katie Wilkinson, Gar-Field High School, Woodbridge, VA