How does the vampire film also lend itself well to comedy (intentionally or otherwise)? According to Barber, what is the difference between a folkloric vampire and a fictional one? Briefly, how does fairy tale play a key role in the vampire story?

Final Exam for a Film Class on the Vampire Genre

Section 1: Short answers, 10 points each = 50 points total: For each question below, answer succinctly in a sentence or two.

1. How does the vampire film also lend itself well to comedy (intentionally or otherwise)? Explain by giving at least one example.

3. According to Barber, what is the difference between a folkloric vampire and a fictional one? Name at least two differences.

4. Briefly, how does fairy tale play a key role in the vampire story? Give a specific example from a specific film.

5. How is religious belief a clear theme in vampire stories and why is it significant? Give an example as part of your answer.

6. In your opinion, what is one “rule” of vampires that seems consistent over time and culture? Why do you think this one holds up?

Section 2: Medium answers, 25 points each = 50 points total: For each question below, answer in about a paragraph, and be specific and to the point. No summary is needed.

6. Discuss the folkloric roots of the vampire. Barber states, “The disturbance of the grave is merely one means whereby the body makes itself noticed” (125). What does this mean in light of the development of the “vampire” in folklore?

7. How can a vampire story also be a means for other social commentary, like feminist thought? Why does the vampire story translate so well in a feminist lens? Explain using at least one of the feminist films we have screened this term to discuss.

Section 3: Long answers, 50 points each = 100 points total: For these two questions, I will ask you to watch a section of film (I will provide specific time stamps) and evaluate it in terms of literary elements, mise-en-scene, and any other genre-specific themes it explores via film (lighting, sound, editing, camera work, etc.). Each analysis should take a couple of paragraphs up to a page to fully evaluate. Don’t forget to discuss filmic elements, not just thematic ones. Do not summarize the sequence.

8. The following sequence from Byzantium: approximately 14:09 to 21:00. Evaluate as requested above.

9. The pool scene from Let the Right One In, from approximately 1:42 to 1:48. Evaluate as requested above.