Question

In a well-developed paragraph that includes a topic sentence, supporting details, and conclusion, respond to the following question: Which was more effective at telling the story of Jimmy Valentine, the text or the film version? Give your opinion, and then give details about each version to support your choice. Consider elements like characterization, setting, music, lighting, and emotional connection to the story.

Answer 1

After reading the short story "A Retrieved Reformation" by O. Henry and the film adaptation by "Jimmy Valentine," I believe that the text version was more effective at telling Jimmy Valentine's story. In the text, the story opens with Jimmy meeting with the Warden in prison. This scene allows the reader to imagine what Jimmy looked like and I imagined that he was a thin, pale man with dark greasy hair who was dressed in a prison jump suit. The film version was set in a bank and showed Jimmy more as a well-dressed businessman. Although the lighting and music emphasize the drama of the story, especailly when Jimmy is working to open the vault, I felt more of an emotional connection as the story concluded when the investigator did not arrest Jimmy and allowed him to go free so he could continue his new life.

Explanation: You are supposed to give your opinion and use details to support it. Some of the details/elements you want to use include characterization, setting, music, lighting, and emotional connection to the story.

Answer 2

I personally believe that the film version better tells the story of Jimmy Valentine. In a film, the characters are much more tangible. We can see what they look like and don't have to imagine. The film version better exaggerates the dramatic story and enables us to really feel along with the characters rather than just read along. The emotional scenes in the story are better portrayed in the film. In conclusion, the film version is better at telling the story of Jimmy Valentine because it gives us a palpable picture of the story and allows the audience to better follow the story in the shoes of the main characters.

Step-by-step explanation: