Question

cinematic bias in monster
part 1 — argumentative thesis
write a strong thesis about how monster uses cinematic techniques to shape audience bias.
my thesis template: in the film monster, walker and dean use (technique 1, technique 2, technique 3) to portray steve as more/less (innocent or guilty), ultimately shaping the audience’s perception of (bias, justice, truth, etc.).
part 2 — essential question analysis
if two filmmakers told steve’s story with opposite intentions—one to show innocence, one to show guilt—what specific choices would each use?
filmmaker showing innocence:
filmmaker showing guilt:
part 3 — essay outline organizer
claim / thesis:
body paragraph 1 – supporting point #1
technique:
how it influences bias:
film evidence:
outside source:
body paragraph 2 – supporting point #2
technique:
how it influences bias:
film evidence:
outside source:
body paragraph 3 – supporting point #3
technique:
how it influences bias:
film evidence:
outside source:

Explanation:

Part 1 – Argumentative Thesis

For the filmmaker framing Steve as innocent, choices center on humanizing, intimate techniques that emphasize his vulnerability. For the filmmaker framing him as guilty, choices focus on distancing, menacing techniques that link him to the crime.

Each body paragraph ties a specific cinematic technique to the thesis, explains its impact on audience bias, cites direct film moments, and references a scholarly source on film rhetoric.

Answer:

In the film Monster, Walker and Dean use close-up shots, diegetic sound, and narrative framing to portray Steve as more innocent, ultimately shaping the audience's perception of truth and justice.

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Part 2 – Essential Question Analysis