Film Study Worksheet for Blackfish
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (5-10 points)
List three compelling facts described in the film that reinforce the film’s position on Orcas being held in captivity. (5 pts)
List three compelling facts related to the film’s claim that trainers were misled about the risks of their job and that SeaWorld did not provide them with adequate protection. (5 pts)
Describe cinematic framing techniques used in presenting particular scenes, images, or sounds that were designed to appeal to the viewer’s emotions and to persuade the viewer to agree with the position advocated by the film. Based on the framing, what key messages can you conclude the filmmakers were trying to convey to the audience? (10 pts)
Did any of the reasoning given in support of the positions advocated by the film seem to be weak or misleading? If so, describe the reasoning and why you thought it was flawed. What were some of SeaWorld’s primary issues with the film’s content, according to the public statement on their website (“Why Blackfish is ‘Propaganda,’ Not a Documentary”)? Do you agree or disagree? (10 pts)
Outside of class, do some research to explore what steps SeaWorld has taken to respond to the documentary and repair its public image since the film was released. Describe these steps in detail, using citations from your research (APA or MLA style). Then in summary, explain the degree to which the film and its resulting news coverage have affected SeaWorld and influenced policies regarding orca captivity.