Finding background information on a film is often the first step that one takes before writing about a film or filmmaker.
1. For basic background information:
a) A great place to find information on a film (such as significant dates, working titles, director, etc.) is on IMDB (Internet Movie Database)
b) Encyclopedias such as Oxford African American Studies Center (linked below)
2. Look for books on general topics:
a) In our library
b) At other institutions using WorldCat (Request using Interlibrary Loan)
3. Article databases such as Film and Television Literature may also provide some background for films themselves.Check databases in history, sociology, and other related disciplines for more information on African Americans in the media.
See the tab on Find Articles, Criticism, and Reviews and African American Studies for assistance in developing your search strategy.
This link opens in a new window This link opens in a new window This link opens in a new window This link opens in a new windowFilm Scripts can be helpful in understanding the text of a film. The databases listed below provide scripts from various stages of a film's production. Note that scripts do not replace the experience of the film and may not accurately reflect the final production.
This link opens in a new window This link opens in a new windowSearch the Internet Movie Database for reviews and background information.
