a. How are Italy and Italians represented in the film? Can you distinguish any stereotypes in this representation?
Mainly the people in the movie Roman Holiday are depicted or represented as going on a perminant vacation. They are all for the most part middle class and were portrayed in a comical manor. Most of the men in the film are depicted as romantics. All the Italians portrayed are done so in a stereotypical manor.
b. Is there a political message to the film? What is it? Think of US economic and political expansion into Europe through the Marshall plan. Think about Princess Ann’s references to the European Union.
Princess Ann represents Europe right after the end of World War II. Mostly being unsure of what to do, the character Joe represents America as a whole and how Joe (America) was using Ann (Europe) to get what he wanted. This relates to the Marshall Plan because the Untied States were trying to help rebuild Europe after the second world war, and were in Europe doing so.
c. Is this a love story, or a bildungsroman (growing up story)?
I believe that Roman Holiday is both a love story and a growing up story. That developing love occuring between Joe and Ann proves that this movie falls under the catagory of a love story. It is also a growing up story due to Ann's process of realizing what she needs to do in her life and undertake her responcibilities as ruler.
d. Choose one scene you feel is crucial to the film, and describe what cinematic qualities make it powerful and compelling.
When Ann was shown at the press conference is truley displayed the true responcibility Ann really has as a lead power figure. Not to mention she finally realized the love affair between Ann and Joe wouldn't work out. This was the ultimate realization point in the movie.
