1. Identify some other trends in Hollywood movies since 1985. Predict the trends you believe will occur in the next few years. What current trends may come to an end? Discuss which trends, both past and present, you like and dislike, and why.
   
   
2. What are some of the connections between the trends in television and the trends in films? In groups, research the TV shows that were popular during a particular year or two and compare them with the films that appeared in the same years. Each group could study a different year or two years.
   
   
3. Star Wars, Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, and Ghostbusters were all block-buster hits. What was the basis of their appeal? What other films or TV shows have these films inspired? What other major films in recent years have inspired sequels or served as a catalyst for new trends?
   
   
4. As outlined in the concluding paragraph, the film industry is facing several important challenges. Research one or more of these challenges and present a report to the class.
   
   
5. The "Star Wars" defense systems or Clint Eastwood's famous expression in his Dirty Harry movies, "Go ahead. Make my day," are examples of how our language and thought has been influenced by the movies. Discuss the idea that movies have assumed a role as a metaphor for our culture, using examples from as many popular films as possible.
   
   
6. From Casablanca (1942) to The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1971), audiences have shown strong loyalty to certain films which are given extended runs, and are often seen several times by their adoring fans. By choosing one or more examples, research the phenomenon of cult films.
   
   
7. Do a study of some films from a non-North American country. Or, choose a non-North American film currently available in videocassette and write a review of it to present to the class. Discuss what you like and dislike about foreign films. What are the advantages of seeing films from other countries?
   
   
8. Describe the rise of Cineplex and the resulting changes to film distribution. Discuss the phenomenon as a contributing factor in the rise of the blockbuster.

Adapted from Barry Duncan (ed.), Mass Media and Popular Culture. Toronto: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Canada Inc. 1988. p. 161.