- Using the discussion questions for Knock Down the House as starting point, write a paper where you review the movie for its presentation of gender and its discussion about the political process.
In 3-4 body paragraphs, say something about each candidate’s platform and their self-presentation. How is the topic of gender explored and how is the political process talked about, and what is the relationship about their roles as women and their beliefs and styles as politicians? How do women talk about themselves and how do they talk about their constituents?
Then, in a paragraph or two, relate this discussion to conversations about suffrage and voting rights that we have had in class. Feel free to bring in your own thoughts about civic engagement. Do you think people who have been historically marginalized have a particular obligation to vote, and why
Conclude with some words on your own plans or thoughts for participating in the political process or engaging with your representatives in light of what you have learned in this unit.
After viewing Knock Down the House on Netflix, respond to these questions:
1.)What aspects of each candidate’s story did you find compelling?
2.) Pay attention to the ways these stories are told. Where are candidates filmed, who is around them, what kinds of things do they say? In sum: what strategies are used to convince you to believe these candidates should be elected?
Sample Solution