For the movie, Requiem for a Dream (Artisan Entertainment, 2000) • Give a

For the movie, Requiem for a Dream (Artisan Entertainment, 2000)

• Give a synopsis of the protagonist. Provide a brief background of the character

(e.g., socioeconomic class, environment, stressors, any other pertinent info, etc.). If there

is more than one protagonist, pick one character to focus on.

• Analyze his or her behavior. What are you feeling? What are your thoughts? Do you

feel alienated? How do you think other people perceive you? Are you paranoid?

Part 2. The Drug

• Discuss the pharmacology of the abused drug in question. If multiple drugs appeared in

the movie, pick one drug to focus on. How does it work? What are its biopsychological

effects? Drug is clearly identified, providing

additional information such as

scheduling, legality, etc, Provide Thorough and detailed analysis of

ADME of drug, Opinion on how drug misuse was

portrayed is thorough, identification of

accuracy, providing examples from

film, Clear identification of how drug use

was used in the film (plot device, to

demonize, to create sympathy, etc.)

Part 3. The Film

• You are now a film critic. What is your opinion on how drug abuse was portrayed in this

film? Do you feel that the fictional portrayal was accurate/inaccurate? Why? Provide

examples.

• What stereotypes of the drug abuser do you feel were illustrated?

• Did the screenwriter portray drug abuse as a criminal activity or medical disorder?

• Did the movie simply tell a story or did it try to produce understanding of the

protagonist’s abuse of drugs?

Additionally, adhere to the rubric provided.