A Film Across Borders
Choose a film from a non-English speaking country and analyze its cultural, social, and artistic impact both within its home country and internationally. Describe how the film's aesthetic and thematic elements contribute to its universal appeal.
Suggested length: An essay or article: 800 to 2,500 words
Start the clock
Pick a sprint, press start and keep going until it stops. Momentum beats polish on a first draft.
Make it yours
Three ways to take this prompt somewhere nobody else will.
- Find one surprising fact and build around it.
- Use one example from your own life.
- Open with a specific story, then widen out to the big idea.
Writing essays
A mind at work, one subject at a time.
An essay collection gathers short nonfiction pieces: personal, critical, funny or all three. What ties them together is the writer's voice and way of seeing.
What readers expect
- A distinctive voice
- Personal stakes
- Surprising connections
- Pieces that stand alone
A tip before you start
Follow a question, not a thesis. The pleasure of an essay is watching someone think.
More Music, Film and Performing Arts prompts
- Ballet's Changing RolesExplore the role of gender and diversity in classical ballet, discussing how traditional narratives and casting are being challenged by contemporary…
- The Controversial ScreenConstruct a detailed review of a controversial recent film or music album. Discuss its themes, execution, and public and critical reception. Argue…
- The Scene That SingsConduct an analysis of a famous musical or theatrical scene from a film or TV show. Discuss the components—from the script, to the music, to the…
- The Night at the TheatreCompose a narrative non-fiction piece centered around a memorable theatrical performance you attended. Delve into details like the setting, the…
Fifteen minutes in? Keep going.
Chapterly gives a draft somewhere to grow: chapters, daily word goals, and readers when you're ready.
Plans from $9.99 a month. Cancel any time. Your words are always yours.