On the Waterfront

On the Waterfront Essay Topics
  1. 'The themes of On the Waterfront are conveyed as much by the imagery and symbolism as by the events  and dialogue.' To what extent do you agree?
  2. 'On the Waterfront - the struggle of an ordinary man with his conscience.' Discuss.
  3. 'Terry suffers because he dares to break the code of the waterfront.' Do you agree?
  4. 'The pros and cons of being an informer - that is all there is in On the Waterfront.' Do you agree?
  5. 'The story of a rat with honour.' (Reviewer) Do you agree with this view of the film?
  6. 'I coulda been a contender.' Do you think Terry has only himself to blame?
  7. 'It's simply love that changes Terry, noty principles and regret.' Discuss.
  8. 'It is conscience that turns Terry against the mob'. Do you agree?
  9. 'On the Waterfront looks, sounds and feels real.' How is realism achieved in this film?
  10. 'Terry overcomes the role of "bum" that others have marked out for him.' Do you agree?
  11. 'A controversial story of betrayal.' Is this how you see the film?
  12. 'Being shot in black and white suits the film's subject, plot and characters.' Do you agree?
  13. 'On the Waterfront' is the portrait of a flawed hero.' Do you agree?
  14. 'The film is about moral choices and dilemmas and how to resolve them. Discuss.
  15. 'Terry is motivated more by self-interest than moral principles.' Do you agree?
  16. 'Edie and Father Barry are repsonsible for Terry Malloy's change of mind.' Do you agree?
  17. 'Torn between loyalty and love.' Is this how you see Terry Malloy?
  18. 'On the Waterfront is one man's quest for redemption, a quest that begins from the first moments of the film.' Discuss.

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