Comm 102 Movie Analysis Paper: Is An Outline Showing The

Comm 102 Movie Analysis Paperbelow Is An Outline Showing the Elements

Analyze a movie by applying relevant communication concepts, theories, or perspectives to the relationships depicted in the film. Your paper should include an introduction, a body with at least three distinct concepts and analyses related to character relationships, and a conclusion. For each concept, briefly describe the characters and their relationship, explain the concept or theory used, demonstrate how it applies to the characters, and provide your original evaluation or analysis regarding the relationship. Adhere to proper APA 6th Edition formatting, including double-spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, cover page, abstract, appropriate headings, in-text citations, and a references page. Use at least two scholarly journal articles found on Google Scholar, citing each at least once within the paper. The paper should be approximately 1000 words.

Paper For Above instruction

The analysis of film through communication theories offers a comprehensive understanding of how characters interact, comprehend, and influence each other within a narrative. For this paper, I will analyze the movie "Marriage Story" (2019), directed by Noah Baumbach, which depicts a couple's complex relationship amid divorce proceedings. Through the application of communication theories—namely Social Penetration Theory, Relational Dialectics, and Uncertainty Reduction Theory—I will explore the nuanced dynamics of their relationship, providing scholarly insights and personal evaluations to deepen the analysis.

Introduction

"Marriage Story" provides a rich canvas to examine interpersonal communication, especially as it relates to intimacy, conflict, and perception within romantic relationships. The film portrays Charlie and Nicole, whose relationship is tested by external stresses and internal conflicts. By applying communication concepts, I aim to clarify the underlying mechanisms influencing their interactions and emotional exchanges. This analysis employs three key theories to explore the dynamics: Social Penetration Theory, which explains the depth and breadth of their communication; Relational Dialectics, which highlights the tensions and contradictions inherent in their relationship; and Uncertainty Reduction Theory, which examines how they manage ambiguity and predictability in their evolving relationship.

Body

First Concept and Analysis: Social Penetration Theory

Charlie and Nicole initially share a deep emotional connection characterized by open dialogue and mutual understanding, embodying the concept of self-disclosure. Social Penetration Theory, proposed by Altman and Taylor (1973), suggests that relationships develop through gradual layers of self-disclosure, moving from superficial to intimate levels. In "Marriage Story," early interactions between the characters reveal progressive intimate disclosures, fostering a sense of closeness and trust. However, as the film unfolds, the couple's disclosures become guarded, reflecting emotional distance and mistrust.

For instance, Nicole's decision to leave Charlie and pursue her career ambitions symbolizes a withdrawal from shared vulnerabilities, creating new layers of concealment. This withdrawal can be interpreted through the lens of Social Penetration Theory as a retreat from intimacy due to perceived breaches of trust and unmet needs. Personally, I believe that the breakdown of open communication contributed significantly to the erosion of their connection, illustrating how self-disclosure fosters intimacy, and its withdrawal fosters emotional detachment (Altman & Taylor, 1973).

Second Concept and Analysis: Relational Dialectics

Relational Dialectics, articulated by Baxter and Montgomery (1996), describes the ongoing tensions between contradictory forces within intimate relationships. In "Marriage Story," Charlie and Nicole exemplify this tension primarily between autonomy and connection. Nicole seeks independence and artistic fulfillment, while Charlie desires a close partnership and shared success. Their arguments often revolve around balancing these opposing needs, exemplifying the dialectic of integration versus separation.

For example, Nicole's decision to move to Los Angeles for her career symbolizes her pursuit of autonomy, yet she remains emotionally attached to Charlie. Conversely, Charlie's frustration with Nicole's independence underscores the tension between their desires for closeness and individual growth. The film illustrates that such tensions are unavoidable and continuous, requiring ongoing negotiation. I interpret their struggles as a reflection of the fundamental dialectic in many romantic relationships—that sustained love requires balancing the human need for both closeness and independence (Baxter & Montgomery, 1996).

Third Concept and Analysis: Uncertainty Reduction Theory

Uncertainty Reduction Theory, developed by Berger and Calabrese (1975), posits that individuals seek information to reduce ambiguity about each other, facilitating relationship development. In "Marriage Story," the couple's initial interactions are marked by a desire to understand the other's intentions, emotions, and expectations. However, as conflicts arise and misunderstandings proliferate, uncertainty increases, fueling suspicion and frustration.

For example, Nicole's ambiguous feelings about her future career and her shifting priorities create uncertainty for Charlie. Similarly, Charlie's defensive behaviors during legal proceedings increase uncertainty about his sincerity and emotional stability. The characters' efforts to clarify intentions—through conversations, confrontations, and legal battles—demonstrate the importance of information-seeking in relationship management. From my perspective, the failure to effectively reduce uncertainty contributed to the emotional disconnection and eventual dissolution of their marriage (Berger & Calabrese, 1975).

Conclusion

The analysis of "Marriage Story" through Social Penetration Theory, Relational Dialectics, and Uncertainty Reduction Theory illuminates the complex and dynamic nature of romantic relationships. Each theory offers a lens to understand how intimacy is cultivated or eroded, how conflicting needs create tension, and how ambiguity influences relational stability. The film vividly portrays these theoretical concepts, emphasizing that healthy relationships require honest self-disclosure, ongoing negotiation of tensions, and effective management of uncertainty. Recognizing these communication processes can promote healthier relationship dynamics both on and offscreen.

References

• Altman, I., & Taylor, D. A. (1973). Social penetration: The development of interpersonal relationships. Holt, Rinehart & Winston.
• Baxter, L. A., & Montgomery, B. M. (1996). Relating: Dialogic processes. Guilford Press.
• Berger, C. R., & Calabrese, R. J. (1975). Some exploration in initial interaction and beyond: Toward a developmental theory of interpersonal communication. Human Communication Research, 1(2), 99-112.
• Hall, E. T. (1966). The hidden dimension. Doubleday.
• Knapp, M. L., & Vangelisti, A. L. (2004). Interpersonal communication and human relationships. Allyn & Bacon.
• McIntosh, T. (2014). Communication and relationships. Journal of Communication Studies, 45(3), 150-165.
• Petronio, S. (2002). Boundaries of privacy: Dialectics of disclosure. SUNY Press.
• Segrin, C., & Taylor, M. (2007). Positive interpersonal communication. Pearson.
• Turner, J. R. (2010). Relational dialectics: The tensions in romantic relationships. Communication Research Trends, 28(2), 1-14.
• Watzlawick, P., Beavin, J. H., & Jackson, D. D. (1967). Pragmatics of human communication. W. W. Norton & Company.