I didn't get help so just re-posting.
I have to write a review of a film or play I've seen and I chose the movie "Law Abiding Citizen"
I need help (the theme isn't really a theme, its the plot but I can't really come up with a theme.) Could this be it?
A man seeks revenge on the justice system for not putting the men who murdered his family in prison.
"Law Abiding Citizen"
Directed by F.Gary Gray
Starring: Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler
Theme: A brilliant man orchestrates a series of high-profile murders that grip the city of Philadelphia - all from inside his jail cell. The prosecutor assigned to his case realizes he is the only one who can end the reign of terror.
http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/lit_terms/theme.html
Notice that a theme is NOT the main idea or plot of a story. It's the author's message to his readers.
So ... what do YOU THINK the author's hidden message is in this story?
There are very many reviews of that movie here:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1197624/usercomments
Most reviews are highly favorable.
Reading how other people reacted to the movie may help you formulate your own review
The theme you have identified for the movie "Law Abiding Citizen" is a good start. It captures the essence of the plot and the main driving force behind the actions of the protagonist. However, it could be further refined to provide more depth and insight into the film.
To come up with a more specific theme for your review, you can consider the underlying ideas or messages conveyed by the movie. Here's a step-by-step process to help you identify a stronger theme for your review:
1. Watch the movie: If you haven't already seen "Law Abiding Citizen," it is essential to watch it first. This will allow you to understand the story and characters better, making it easier to identify the central theme.
2. Analyze the plot and character motivations: Pay attention to the various elements of the film, including the narrative structure, character development, and conflicts presented. Consider the protagonist's motivations, the events that unfold, and the consequences of their actions.
3. Identify recurring motifs or symbols: Look for any recurring patterns, symbols, or motifs within the movie. These can provide clues to the deeper themes explored in the storyline.
4. Reflect on the film's message: After watching the movie and analyzing its different aspects, reflect on the overall message or messages that the film conveys. Consider any moral, social, or philosophical commentaries it might be making.
5. Construct the theme: Once you have considered all the above factors, you can start constructing a refined theme statement for your review. The theme should be concise and clear while encapsulating the central idea or ideas explored in the film.
For example:
Theme: The complex dynamics between justice and revenge in a flawed legal system.
This revised theme captures not only the revenge-seeking nature of the protagonist but also focuses on the broader theme of justice within a flawed legal system, which is a prominent element in the movie.
Remember, themes can often be subjective, and different viewers may interpret them differently. Therefore, it's important to support your chosen theme with evidence and examples from the film.