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Unit XIII: Decades of Change |
| www.studenthandouts.com > U.S. History > Decades of Change > Books and Films |
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| Selma (2014) | A Fierce Green Fire (2012) | Frost/Nixon (2008) | Mumia: Long-Distance Revolutionary (2011) | Moonrise Kingdom (2012) |
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| Battle for Dien Bien Phu (1986) |
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There are several excellent films that can be valuable for American History students learning about the Vietnam War and the civil rights movements of the 1960s and 1970s.
Apocalypse Now (1979): Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, this is a classic film loosely based on Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. It offers a unique perspective on the Vietnam War. Platoon (1986): Directed by Oliver Stone, this film provides a gritty and realistic portrayal of the war, drawing from Stone's own experiences as a soldier. Full Metal Jacket (1987): Another great film directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick, it delves into the dehumanizing effects of war on soldiers, both during training and in combat. The Deer Hunter (1978): Directed by Michael Cimino, this film explores the impact of the war on a group of friends and their hometown. Good Morning, Vietnam (1987): Starring Robin Williams, this film offers a unique perspective by focusing on the experiences of an Armed Forces Radio Service DJ in Vietnam. Malcolm X (1992): Directed by Spike Lee, this biographical film offers an in-depth look at the life of civil rights activist Malcolm X. Mississippi Burning (1988): Directed by Alan Parker, this film is loosely based on the FBI investigation into the murders of civil rights activists in Mississippi during the 1960s. The Help (2011): Directed by Tate Taylor, this film explores the experiences of African American maids in Mississippi during the civil rights era. The Butler (2013): Directed by Lee Daniels, this movie tells the story of Cecil Gaines, a White House butler who served under eight U.S. presidents during a time of significant social and political change. Eyes on the Prize (1987, documentary series): While not a feature film, this documentary series is a valuable resource for understanding the civil rights movement in detail. These films provide diverse perspectives on the Vietnam War and the civil rights movements, helping students gain a deeper understanding of these crucial periods in American history. It is important to use these films in conjunction with historical context and classroom discussions to facilitate meaningful learning. Teachers should also be aware than many of these films are rated R, which means teachers would be wise to show appropraite clips rather than entire films. |
| www.studenthandouts.com > U.S. History > Decades of Change > Books and Films |
