Are the films entertaining? How does this intersect with its historical accuracy? (i.e. does accuracy affect entertainment value and vice versa?)
How important does historical accuracy seem to be for the filmmakers? How important do YOU think it should be? (This is not a trick question!)
Considering that all historical films take some liberties with accuracy, why do you think certain historical elements were changed? What likely influenced the filmmakers to change their presentation of history? Was it effective?
How do the films portray their respective time periods, costumes, and locations? Are they well developed or two-dimensional?
How do the films portray characters as historical people? Do they seem like people from the time period or do they seem out of place.
Can you identify an overall argument in the films? If so, is it subtle or obvious?
Did the filmmakers seem to have any major biases? Do they point them out, or try to keep them hidden?
How do the films differ from a historical documentary?
How might you make the films differently? (try to focus on the historical themes and their presentation, since this is not a film class)
What are some other things you noticed about the films that stood out to you?
You do not have to limit yourself to these questions, nor answer every question. But you do NOT need to tell me such things as whether you liked the films or whether they were boring. These are personal opinions and they are fine to have, but they are not essay material.
