how to use a movie title in essay

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How to Format Movie Titles in Academic Writings

• by Lesley V.
• October 26, 2023

How to write a movie title in an essay?

Students, especially those in Arts, often refer to films or movie series in their papers. The formatting rules here are easy to remember. But:

They vary a bit, depending on the citation style you use.

In this post, I’ve gathered the guidelines for citing movie titles in five primary formats. Examples included, for you to compare and remember everything better.

How to Write Movie Titles in Essays

Are movie titles italicized?

It’s the most frequent question students ask when looking for this information online. Indeed, most citation formats prescribe italicizing. Other general rules include:

• Uppercase for subtitles
• Extra short movie names (like “It” ) may also go in quotations
• When using quotation marks (AP style), put punctuation inside them

Below are the details on how to format movie titles in essays and reference lists correctly.

Writing Film Titles in Different Citation Styles

For APA style (1):

• Uppercase all four-letter words and above
• Uppercase the first and the last word of a movie title, even if they are short articles (a, the) or pronouns (in, at, etc.)
• Italicize the entire name

For MLA format (2):

• Uppercase movie titles and subtitles
• Use capital letters for both parts of hyphenated words
• No uppercase for articles (a, the) and short conjunctions within the movie name
• Italicize the entire movie title

For Chicago style:

• Uppercase all main words
• Lowercase short conjunctions (below four letters) within the movie title
• Uppercase prepositions, regardless of their length

For AP citation style:

• Lowercase articles (a, the) and prepositions/conjunctions that are shorter than four letters
• Uppercase articles and prepositions/conjunctions in the beginning/end of the title
• No italics; put movie names in quotation marks

For Harvard style:

• Uppercase all primary words (nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.)
• Lowercase articles and prepositions/conjunctions (below four letters) within the movie title

How to Capitalize Movies in Papers

When writing a film name in a sentence, capitalize every word except for:

• Articles (a, an, the) within the movie title
• Short (below four letters) prepositions and conjunctions within the title

If a movie name begins with the above, use uppercase. Also, write long prepositions/conjunctions (moreover, although, etc.) with a capital letter. For example:

Italics vs. Quotations vs. Underlines

Most citation styles, except AP, prescribe italicization for movies and film series titles. When writing in AP, use quotation marks.

Quotes are also possible to use if you mention super short movie names like “It” or “M.” You italicize them in APA, MLA, or Chicago.

Underlines are for handwritten essays. When written by hand, you can’t italicize, huh? Use underlining instead to highlight a movie title somehow.

How to Format Punctuation in Movie Titles

If punctuation is a part of a film name, place it inside quotation marks or italicize it.

For example:

Writing Movie Titles in Reference Lists

Do You Italicize Movie Titles?

Here they go, the rules on formatting movie titles in essays. Now that you know how to write a movie title in an essay properly, the only detail remains:

Check the formatting guidelines before writing. What citation style does an educator or editor ask you to follow? If none assigned, choose one and stick to it for consistency.

References:

• https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/index.html  
• https://lib.westfield.ma.edu/c.php?g=354010&p=2388441

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How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay or Article

When you're writing a paper or article in school or at work, you may be in a situation where you need to write a movie title in your writing. But how should you format them? Should you use italics? Or quotation marks? Or maybe both? Or neither…

The first thing to note is that the rules will be different depending on whether you’re writing an article or an essay. In this guide, we'll explain how to write one in an essay or article so that your writing looks professional and polished. Refer to the relevant section, depending on the piece you are creating. 

The main things to know are:

• If you are writing a movie title in an article, the format you use is up to you (or the company you work for). Pick a format and stick to it.
• If you are writing a movie title in an essay, then you should follow your university's or employer's referencing style guidelines. 

Read on for suggestions of different formats for articles, and more in-depth guidance around different university referencing styles.

How to Write a Movie Title in an Article 

Let's begin by exploring why you need a specific format, and examining some key principles and rules around writing a movie title in an article.

Why You Need a Specific Format 

So picture this. You’re writing an article and want to refer to a particular movie - perhaps to illustrate a point, or maybe you’re critiquing it. But you’re unsure how to format it. You don’t want to be marked down for formatting it incorrectly, so you consider leaving it out to avoid the trouble. Not on our watch!

But hold on a sec! Why should you even worry about this? Why do movie titles need to be formatted correctly anyway? Well, it’s simple really. If you don’t differentiate the title from the rest of the text, your readers might not understand you’re referring to a movie title. Imagine, for instance, that you wrote:

I finally got around to watching three billboards outside ebbing missouri.

Can we agree this sentence doesn’t make any sense? With this punctuation (i.e. none) your reader may well believe that you headed out into the night and found a couple of billboards to look at for some time. 

So do you see why it’s important to have some kind of format for writing movie titles? 

Key Principles and Rules

Now here’s the tricky bit: with articles, there’s no hard and fast rule on how to format a movie title in your writing. There are many different options and any of them would be acceptable to use in an article you’re going to publish online or physically. 

So what to do?

Our first advice is to check in with your editor/head of copywriting / your point of reference at the company you work at. They will most likely have a specific format they like to use and will be able to share that with you.

That’s if you are writing for a company.

If you’re self-publishing, say, for example, on your website or Medium.com, then you’re the boss, friend. The conventions you use are completely up to you. 

But here are a few key principles and rules:

• Common conventions are to use italics or quotations marks
• Choose one format and stick with it - not only throughout the article but in everything you write
• Keep an eye out for the correct spelling of the movie. For example, don’t forget the comma in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. 
• Title case is a great way to further demarcate the movie title from the rest of the text to make it abundantly clear that it’s a movie title.

How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay 

Now let's turn our attention towards writing a movie title in an essay.

New scenario. You’re writing an essay for your college or university course. Perhaps you’re using the movie as an example, or maybe you’re critiquing it.

But you don’t want to be marked down for getting it wrong, so you consider avoiding mentioning it altogether. But that would be a shame! Let us help you. 

Here are some general rules to get you started:

• Follow the rules of your school’s academic writing style (APA, MLA, AP, or Chicago.)
• Use title case
• Use italics or quotation marks (depending on the writing style)

Academic Referencing Styles

There are different academic referencing/writing styles in the English language, and these vary depending on the education establishment. Different styles have different rules that govern the way that you might write, punctuate and cite within your essay.

The four most common styles are Associated Press (AP), Chicago, American Psychological Association (APA), and Modern Language Association (MLA).

Of course, there are many more than just four in existence, but these are the prevalent ones. 

But why are there so many different writing styles, we hear you ask? Quite simply, this is to cater to different fields. For instance, the scientific sector places a lot of importance on using recent research, hence the APA style places the date before anything. Humanities tend to use the MLA style which places the author's name first. 

Write a Movie Title in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles

Luckily, the APA, MLA, and Chicago styles all use the same format for movie titles, so it’ll be easy to remember.

These styles all require that you place the movie title in italics. Here are some examples:

• Saving Private Ryan
• The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King 

Do not use any quotation marks! This is not necessary and will be considered incorrect.

You’ll also notice that the title is written in the title case. This means you capitalize certain words in the title. More on that in the next section.

Write a Movie Title in AP style

The AP style is the exception here since it does not use italics to format movie titles. Instead, you’re required to use quotation marks. Let’s use the same examples as above, to make the difference clear:

• “Kill Bill”
• “Saving Private Ryan”
• “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King”

Again, here, remember to use title case. 

Write a Movie Title in Title Case

Using title case means that you capitalize certain words in the title. But depending on the writing style you’re using, there are different rules on which words need capitalizing and which ones don't. Mostly, they disagree on whether or not to capitalize minor words.

Read on to find out the rules for each style, to ensure you’re writing it correctly. 

Note that if you’re writing an article, this will again depend on the rules that the company you work for is using, or if you’re writing for your own business, then you can make your own rules. Remember to pick a structure and stick to it. Consistency is key!

• Capitalize the major words.
• Lowercase the articles the, a, and an.
• Capitalize the ‘to’ in an infinitive (e.g., I Want To Eat Cake)
• Capitalize the first and last words (overrides other rules)
• Capitalize all words of four letters or more (overrides other rules)
• Lowercase the second word after a hyphenated prefix

Chicago Style

• Lowercase articles, prepositions, and coordinating conjunctions
• Lowercase the second part of Latin species names.
• Lowercase articles, prepositions, and coordinating conjunctions.
• Do NOT capitalize ‘to’ in infinitives (e.g., I Want to Eat Cake).

As you can see, all four styles share some common rules but are different in certain small details. 

Incorrect ways to write a movie title

Here are some examples of incorrect ways to write a movie title:

• Saving private ryan
• Eternal SUNSHINE of a Spotless Mind
• “Shawshank Redemption”
• One Flew Over the cuckoo’s Nest

Can you figure out what is wrong with each of these examples? We’ll give you a clue! It has to do with incorrect usage of title cases, block capitals and quotation marks.

A note on reference lists

We just wanted to include a little note here to remind you that when citing a movie in your essay, you should include it in your reference list, or bibliography, depending on the academic writing style you are using. 

Again, the structure of your reference list will vary depending on whether you’re writing in APA, AP, MLA or Chicago, and you can find guidance on this in an official manual for the style (or online).

Other Points of Interest

There are some other things you might be interested in knowing that are related to the topic of how to write a movie title in an essay or article, so we’re detailing those below.

How to write a quote from a movie

So you’ve successfully referenced a movie using the rules outlined above. Now you’d like to quote a line from the movie. Which conventions should you use for this? 

For this, you would use quotation marks. For instance, if you want to quote this famous line from the movie Star Wars , you would write: “May the force be with you.”

Remember that if you’re writing an essay, you might need to also include the reference in your in-text citation. Let us show you a full example of what this would look like:

History was made when General Dodonna said “May the force be with you.” in the iconic movie Star Wars (Lucas, 1977).

How to write the name of an episode of a TV show 

If you wanted to cite a TV series, you would follow the same rules as those for citing a movie - as outlined above. But what if you also wanted to include the name of the episode you’re referring to? 

Similarly to inserting a direct quote from a movie, in this case, we recommend using quotation marks. For example:

Friends , “The One Where Everybody Finds Out.”

If writing an essay, please refer to your academic writing style’s guide to learn about conventions around formatting and using title case.

Where does the word ‘movie’ come from?

Dating back as far as the early 1900s, the word ‘movie’ stems from the term ‘moving picture’.

Before they could be projected onto a screen for wider viewing, the first movies could only be seen by one person at a time, using an Electrotachyscope, Kinetoscope, or Mutoscope.

And there we have it! We hope that this article has helped you better understand the conventions around writing a movie title in your essay or article, so you can feel confident about handing in your essay or turning in your article to your line manager.

To summarize, when you’re writing an article, the rules are pretty much up to you if writing for your own business, or your manager if writing for another company. Check-in with them to find out which conventions are already in place.

If writing an essay, then you should always use the structure set out in the academic writing style’s manual. Find out first of all which style you are expected to use. 

Now that that's done, it's time to get writing! 

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How To Write A Movie Title In An Essay

Are you planning on referencing a movie in an essay you are writing? You'll have to find out how to write the movie title down correctly, or you may lose points. It might seem like a no-brainer at first glance, but you'd be surprised about the variety of approaches different style guides take to writing movie titles.

With this guide, you'll be able to get writing a movie title in an essay right.

How To Write a Movie Title In An Essay

How should you write a movie title in an essay — whether that essay is a movie analysis, or one not related to cinematography or creative writing at all, like one about history, psychology, or sociology? That depends, in short, on the context in which you're writing your essay.

If you are hoping to reference a movie title in a high school essay, you may not have to use a particular style guide — a manual that instructs you on the correct way to incorporate particular elements into your essay. In this case, your best bet is to use title case and to italicize the movie title.

Title case capitalizes all major words in a title or headline, including nouns, pronouns, verbs, and adverbs. Minor words such as short prepositions and articles (the, a, an) remain in lower case. The first and last words of the title should always be capitalized, regardless of what they are. To make it easier for you, we'll recommend that you also capitalize prepositions with more than four letters, such as "about" and "underneath", though some style guides do not do this. Since you are using italics, there is absolutely no need to use quotation marks as well.

Have you got no clue what we're talking about? Let's see this in action. (Warning: Some of the links definitely contain spoilers if you haven't watched any of these movies yet!)

• The BBC refers to "Spider-Man: Far From Home" , without any italics.
• Wikipedia follows the structure recommended above, as in, for instance, " War of the Worlds ".
• Popular movie review platform Screen Rant follows the structure described above as well, in the body of their texts. " One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest " is one example. To allow you to see as many example as possible, we're linking to a post of theirs about the 15 movies with the longest titles .

If you are required to use a style guide, such as AP, APA, or MLA — common if you are writing a college essay — you will have less freedom. On the other hand, each writing style will also tell you exactly what to do, so you won't be in the dark.

Do you not have the entire style manual lying around on your desk? No problem. We'll make it easy for you.

Rules on Writing a Movie Title On An Essay

Whether you have been asked to use a particular style manual while citing and referencing movie titles in an essay, or you are committed to maintaining a consistent style yourself, style guides can be a little confusing. Here is a closer look at some of the most popular writing styles and their rules for writing movie titles.

You won't just be writing the movie title in the body of your essay, of course, but also cite it in the references. Each style guide has specific guidelines on how to do this, as well.

In APA, you do this by:

• Citing he director of the movie — last name, first initial.
• Place the release year in brackets.
• Follow this with the title.
• Reference the medium used to watch it, for instance DVD.
• Specify the location of the distributor, and the name of the distributor (for instance, California: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures).

In MLA, you:

• List the director like this: Last name, First name.
• Write the movie title.
• Specify the name of the distributor.
• Mention the release year.

In Harvard style, you would:

• List the director by last name and first initial.
• Follow with the location and name of the distributor.

Why Is Proper Formatting Important?

Style guides are conventions established to ensure consistency, which adds clarity to your essay. In practical terms, however, taking care to format the movie titles you may reference in any essays is important because not doing so will cause you to lose points, which will result in a lower grade.

You only have to familiarize yourself with the rules set out by a particular style manual once, and after that you will likely remember what they are. There is no good reason not to make sure that you get this right, and every reason to make the effort.

Is a movie title underlined in an essay?

That is actually a very interesting question. Nowadays, nearly everyone writing an essay will do so on a PC or laptop computer, using word-processing software. This trend has led the practice of underlining movie titles to go all but extinct, since it's just as easy to italicize a movie title as to underline it.

Underlining the things we now italicize used to be more common, because people wrote things by hand or used typewriters. Especially when handwriting something in cursive, italics simply aren't possible. That's why underlining movie titles, book titles, and even scientific names used to be more common. Underlining movie titles remains the correct alternative to italicizing them if you are writing an essay by hand.

Do you also include the year of release with the movie title?

Yes, you should mention the release year as you cite a movie in your references. There is no need to do so in the body of your text, unless multiple movies exist by the same title. With remakes, this has become more common in recent times.

Do you quote a movie title in an essay?

Place quotation marks around a movie title in an essay only if you are using AP style.

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How to Write a Title of a Movie in a Paper

The formatting and capitalization of a movie title depends on the style guide you are using for your paper. The Modern Language Association, American Psychological Association and Chicago style place movie titles in italics, while Associated Press style uses quotes for such titles. When referring to a movie in the body of a paper, all of the major style guides use title case, which means all of the major words in the title are capitalized.

APA, MLA and Chicago style

Movie or film titles are formatted the same in APA, Chicago and MLA style. In each of these styles, the movie title is italicized in the body of the paper. For instance:

Pirates of the Caribbean broke from Disney's tradition of releasing more mature titles under alternate studio names.

Fritz Lang's M deals with the issues of suspicion and punishment in Weimar Germany.

In the body of a paper, APA, Chicago and MLA all use title case capitalization for titles of movies. All major words -- such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs and pronouns -- are capitalized. Minor words -- such as prepositions, conjunctions and articles -- are lower case unless it is the first word of the title.

APA also specifies that all words more than four letters should be capitalized: Gone With the Wind . APA uses sentence case capitalization for movie titles in reference lists, which means only the first word of a title and proper nouns (names of specific people, places or things) are capitalized: For whom the bell tolls .

Associated Press Style

In AP style, movie titles are placed in quotes. Note that the normal rules for quotes within quotes still apply. Here are two examples:

"Star Wars" broke box office records when it was first released.

"I am excited to work on any film as complex as 'The Prestige,'" he said.

AP style uses title case capitalization for movie titles. However, the AP stylebook specifies that any word that is four or more letters as well as the first and last word of a title should always be capitalized.

• Rasmussen College: When writing a paper, do I use italics for all titles?
• Purdue University Online Writing Lab: MLA Formatting and Style Guide
• The Chicago Manual of Style Online: Capitalization, Titles
• RMIT University: Harvard Referencing Guide for Visual Material
• Journalist's Resource: Associated Press Style Basics

Jon Zamboni began writing professionally in 2010. He has previously written for The Spiritual Herald, an urban health care and religious issues newspaper based in New York City, and online music magazine eBurban. Zamboni has a Bachelor of Arts in religious studies from Wesleyan University.

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Including a movie title in an essay, it is essential to adhere to certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and professionalism. The following article will give you detailed information on how to write a movie title in an essay.

When it comes to crafting an impressive essay about movies, the effective use of movie titles plays a pivotal role. Movie titles not only add depth and context to your work but also serve as captivating hooks for readers. However, many writers struggle with the correct format and punctuation rules for movie titles in their essays.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of writing movie titles, exploring the different styles, considerations, and conventions that govern their usage. By the end of this exploration, you will possess the necessary knowledge to confidently and accurately include how to write a movie title in an essay, thereby enhancing the impact and cohesiveness of your writing.

Table of Contents

Three main components of a movie title in an essay

An excellent essay title is created using a formula, just like all professional writing has a framework to follow. Remember that shorter is always preferable. A title cannot contain more than 10 to 12 words.

The elements that make up a movie title in an essay include:

• An eye-catching and compelling hook
• An effective tone of the title establishes a general attitude or mood.
• The focus keyword around which the whole aura of the title revolves.

How to properly write a movie title in an essay – Is formatting necessary?

Formatting plays a critical role in writing a movie title in an essay and holds significant importance for several reasons. Firstly, formatting ensures clarity and distinguishes the movie title from the rest of the text. The title stands out by italicizing or using quotation marks, enabling readers to identify it easily within the essay. This clarity helps to avoid confusion and enhances the overall readability of the essay.

Secondly, adhering to proper formatting guidelines demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Academic writing requires precision, and following established rules for formatting movie titles showcases a writer’s commitment to accurately presenting their work. Consistency in formatting also contributes to the overall coherence of the essay, creating a polished and cohesive piece of writing.

Furthermore, formatting movie titles correctly is essential for maintaining consistency across different citation styles. Various citation styles, such as APA and MLA, have specific guidelines for formatting movie titles. Sticking to these guidelines ensures that the essay aligns with the conventions of the chosen citation style, enhancing the credibility and professionalism of the work.

Formatting movie titles: Rules and conventions

Regarding formatting movie titles, writers must adhere to specific rules and conventions. The primary consideration is whether the essay is being written formally or informally, as this will determine the formatting style for movie titles.

In formal writing, such as academic essays, it is customary to use italics to denote the title of a movie. For instance, “The Shawshank Redemption” or “Casablanca” would be italicized. On the other hand, in more informal contexts, such as personal narratives or blog posts, movie titles are often placed within quotation marks, such as “The Dark Knight” or “Inception.”

Punctuation

Proper punctuation and capitalization are essential in writing movie titles in an essay. In formal writing, the first and last words of the title should always be capitalized, regardless of their nature (e.g., articles, prepositions).

However, conjunctions or short prepositions within the title should only be capitalized if they are the first or last words. When using quotation marks, the punctuation should be placed inside the quotation marks, except in the case of question marks or exclamation points, which follow the same rules as general punctuation placement.

Capitalization

While writing the title, one question revolves around the do’s and don’ts; do I capitalize a movie title? Or not? Ensuring proper capitalization of movie titles is vital. Always capitalize significant words in the title, such as nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.

However, articles (e.g., “a,” “an,” “the”), coordinating conjunctions (e.g., “and,” “but,” “or”), and prepositions (e.g., “of,” “in,” “on”) are generally not capitalized unless they are the first or last word in the title.

Context and consistency

While mastering the technical aspects of writing movie titles is important, it is equally crucial to consider the context and maintain consistency within your essay. In addition to introducing the title, provide relevant information about the movie, such as the director’s name, release year, or any pertinent details that enhance the reader’s understanding.

Moreover, ensure that the chosen formatting style remains consistent throughout the essay, promoting clarity and coherence in your writing. As consistency is key, stick to that format throughout your essay once you decide whether to use italics or quotation marks for movie titles. Avoid mixing both formats within the same document. So, on the question of how to write a movie title in an essay, it is important to maintain consistency throughout the essay by using the same format for movie titles.

How to write a movie title in an essay in APA

If you are using the APA style for your essay, there are specific guidelines for citing movie titles:

• Italicize the movie title both in the text and in the reference list. This ensures consistency and helps distinguish the title from the rest of the content.
• When referring to a movie title within the body of your essay, include it in italics and use sentence case. For example: “The film Titanic (1997) depicts…”
• In the reference list, provide the full movie title in italics, followed by the year of release, the director’s name, and the production company. For example: “Titanic. (1997). Directed by James Cameron. [Motion Picture]. Paramount Pictures.”

How to write a movie title in an essay in MLA

If you are following the MLA style, here are the guidelines for citing movie titles:

• Italicize the movie title in the text and Works Cited page. Italicization helps distinguish the title and gives it prominence within the essay.
• When referring to a movie title within the body of your essay, italicize the title and enclose it in parentheses. For example: “The film Titanic (1997) portrays…”
• In the Works Cited page, include the movie title in italics, followed by the director’s name, the year of release, and the production company.

In short, formatting is important when writing a movie title in an essay because it enhances clarity, showcases professionalism, and maintains consistency with citation style guidelines. By paying attention to these formatting details, writers can effectively communicate their ideas while adhering to the established standards of academic writing.

9 Incorrect ways to write a movie title in an essay

It is essential to use the correct formatting, punctuation, and capitalization when writing movie titles in essays to ensure accuracy and consistency. The detailed pointers with examples about the incorrect ways to write a movie title in an essay are as follows:

1.   No capitalization

“the lord of the rings” In this incorrect format, the entire movie title is written in lowercase letters, disregarding the capitalization rules. It lacks the necessary capitalization of important words, such as “Lord” and “Rings.”

2.   Missing spaces

“Titanicthe Movie” This format omits the required spaces between words, resulting in a jumbled title. The movie title “Titanic” should have a space after it, followed by the word “the” with another space.

3.   Incorrect quotation marks

“The Lion King’ Quotation marks should enclose the entire movie title, both at the beginning and the end. In this case, the closing quotation mark is missing, resulting in an incomplete and incorrect representation of the movie title.

4.   Abbreviations

“HPATDH: Part 2” While abbreviations are commonly used for movie titles, they should be written correctly. In this incorrect format, the abbreviation for “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” is not properly represented, which can create confusion.

5.   Inconsistent capitalization

“Jurassic park” Movie titles should follow consistent capitalization rules, typically capitalizing the principal words. In this case, the title “Jurassic Park” is written with inconsistent capitalization, disregarding the capitalization of the second word.

6.   Misspelling

“Forrest Gump” Misspelling a movie title can significantly impact the accuracy and credibility of an essay. In this example, the movie title “Forrest Gump” is misspelled, omitting the second “r” in “Forrest.”

7.   Punctuation errors

“The, Shawshank Redemption!” Punctuation marks within a movie title should be used correctly. This incorrect format includes a comma after “The,” which disrupts the flow of the title. Additionally, an exclamation mark is added, which is unnecessary and improper.

8.   Wrong order of words

“Witch the The Wizard of Oz” The correct word order is crucial in representing a movie title accurately. In this example, the words “the” and “witch” are misplaced, resulting in an incorrect and nonsensical title.

9.   Using article incorrectly

“An Avengers, The” Articles (e.g., “a,” “an,” “the”) should be used appropriately in movie titles. In this format, the article “an” is placed before “Avengers,” and the article “the” is used incorrectly at the end, resulting in an inaccurate representation of the movie title.

How to brainstorm for writing a movie title in an essay

Title brainstorming is an art that combines creativity, clarity, and relevance. It involves generating a range of potential titles, evaluating their suitability, and selecting the most compelling one that encapsulates your essay’s core ideas and themes. To embark on this process, follow these steps:

●     Understand the essay’s focus

Understand your essay’s main topic and purpose comprehensively. Consider the key concepts, arguments, or research questions you will explore and the central message you aim to convey.

●     Identify the tone and style

Determine your essay’s desired tone and style. Are you aiming for a formal, academic approach, or do you want to infuse it with a touch of creativity? Understanding the desired tone will help shape the language and style of your title.

●     List keywords and phrases

Write down relevant keywords and phrases related to your essay’s subject matter. These could include essential terms, themes, or specific concepts that encapsulate the core ideas of your work.

●     Analyze the content

Review your essay’s content, paying attention to any unique angles, insights, or distinctive arguments you have presented. Consider any standout quotes, ideas, or metaphors that could be potential sources of inspiration for your title.

●     Consider the target audience

Reflect on the intended audience for your essay. Are you addressing a scholarly community, a general readership, or a specialized group? Tailoring your title to resonate with your target audience can enhance its effectiveness.

●     Free writing and association

Engage in a free writing exercise, allowing your thoughts to flow naturally and spontaneously. Write down any words or phrases that come to mind when contemplating your essay’s topic. These associations can stimulate fresh ideas for your title.

●     Synthesize and refine

Analyze the ideas, keywords, and phrases you have generated so far. Look for connections, patterns, or themes that emerge from your brainstorming. Begin synthesizing these elements into potential title options.

●     Test for clarity and impact

Assess each potential title for clarity, relevance, and impact. Is the title concise and understandable? Does it accurately reflect the essay’s content and purpose? Does it generate curiosity and intrigue?

●     Seek feedback

Share your potential titles with others, such as peers, instructors, or mentors, to gather feedback. Their perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you choose the most effective title.

●     Select the final title

After considering feedback and thoroughly evaluating your options, select the title that best captures the essence of your essay while captivating your intended audience. Ensure that the chosen title aligns with your essay’s content and objectives.

Thus, an effective essay title should be concise, intriguing, and accurately represent the content of your work. It serves as a powerful tool to capture readers’ attention and generate interest in your essay. Through a thoughtful and systematic brainstorming process, you can create a professional and engaging title that enhances the overall impact of your essay.

How do you give a movie a title? The absolute qualities of an essay title

A movie title in an essay serves as a concise representation of the film being discussed. It plays an important role in capturing the reader’s attention. When crafting a movie title for an essay, several qualities contribute to its effectiveness and professionalism. Here are some key qualities to consider:

●     Conciseness

A strong movie title in an essay is concise, providing a brief yet impactful summary of the film’s essence. It should avoid excessive length and unnecessary details, focusing on the core theme or idea.

●     Clarity

The title should be clear and easily understandable, conveying the film’s subject matter. It should provide a glimpse into what the movie is about, enabling readers to grasp its central focus quickly.

●     Relevance

A professional movie title should be directly relevant to the content of the essay. It should reflect the analyzed film accurately, ensuring readers can easily connect the title to the subsequent discussion.

●     Captivating and intriguing

A well-crafted movie title should evoke curiosity and intrigue in the reader. It should entice them to delve deeper into the essay, generating interest and anticipation about the film’s analysis.

●     Tone and style

The title should align with the overall tone and style of the essay. Whether it is academic, analytical, or creative, the title should set the appropriate tone and convey the essay’s approach to the film.

●     Consistency with formatting

Following proper formatting guidelines is essential for a professional movie title in an essay. It should be appropriately capitalized, italicized or enclosed in quotation marks (as per the chosen style guide) and adhere to any specific formatting requirements of the essay or publication.

●     Accuracy

The movie title should accurately represent the film being discussed in the essay. It should reflect the official title and avoid any misleading or incorrect information that could confuse readers.

●     Memorable

A memorable movie title leaves a lasting impression on readers. It may incorporate unique or distinctive elements of the film, such as a significant quote, a metaphor, or a memorable character or scene.

●     Originality

While it is essential to accurately represent the film, a professional movie title should also exhibit some originality. It should stand out from generic or commonly used titles, adding a touch of creativity or uniqueness.

●     Grammar and spelling

The title should be free of grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. Proofreading and editing the title, just like the rest of the essay, contribute to its professionalism and credibility.

13 Tips and tricks of how to write the title of a movie in an essay:

By following these professional tips, you can confidently and accurately write movie titles in your essays, demonstrating your attention to detail and adherence to established writing conventions. Let’s look at the top fourteen points that will help you ace your movie title game.

1.   Follow the citation style guidelines

Different styles, such as MLA, Chicago, and APA, have specific rules for formatting movie titles. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines of your style and apply them accurately.

2.   Italicize the title

In most cases, it is recommended to italicize movie titles to set them apart from the rest of the text. This helps readers easily identify the title.

3.   Use quotation marks

If you are unable to use italics, such as in certain online platforms or handwritten essays, use quotation marks to enclose the movie title. The movie title should be in quotation marks, indicating that it is a specific work within a larger body of work. For instance, “The Shawshank Redemption” or “Inception.”

4.   Include the title in the sentence case

When mentioning a movie title within the body of your essay, use sentence case, capitalizing only the first word and proper nouns.

5.   Place the title in parentheses

When referring to a movie title within the text, enclose it in parentheses after the relevant information or context.

6.   Indicate the release year

Whenever possible, include the year of release in parentheses after the movie title. This provides context for the reader and helps differentiate between movies with the same or similar titles.

7.   Include the director’s name

If relevant to your discussion, consider including the director’s name after the movie title to provide additional context or highlight specific aspects of the movie.

8.   Include additional details (if necessary)

Depending on the focus of your essay, you may include other details, such as the production company or relevant actors in the movie title mentioned.

9.   Avoid excessive punctuation

Stick to using parentheses, commas, and periods as necessary. Avoid using unnecessary punctuation that may clutter the title.

10.                Maintain parallelism

If referencing multiple movies within your essay, ensure consistent formatting and parallel structure for all the titles.

11.                Pay attention to accuracy

Double-check the spelling and accuracy of movie titles to avoid any errors or inaccuracies that may detract from the credibility of your essay.

12.                Consult reliable sources

If you are unsure about the correct formatting of a movie title, consult reputable style guides, writing handbooks, or official citation style manuals to ensure accuracy.

13.                Proofread and edit

After writing your essay, thoroughly proofread and edit to ensure all movie titles are correctly formatted and consistent with the chosen citation style.

The bottom line

Understanding how to write movie titles in an essay is essential for maintaining proper adherence to citation style guidelines. So, in conclusion, you can accurately and effectively incorporate movie titles into your essays by following the basic rules, such as italicizing or using quotation marks, ensuring consistency, and properly capitalizing words.

If you use a specific citation style like APA or MLA, follow the respective guidelines for citing movie titles within the text and in the reference list or Works Cited page. With these rules in the above-mentioned guide, you can present movie titles professionally and clearly in your academic writing.

Further, writing movie titles in an essay is an art form that requires attention to detail and adherence to specific rules. By understanding the significance of movie titles, following formatting guidelines, and maintaining consistency, you can effectively incorporate movie titles into your essays and captivate your readers. Now armed with this knowledge, you can confidently embark on your journey to weave compelling narratives with the power of cinema.

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Movie Title in Essays: How to Write Them in Text

Do you italicize movie titles?

Students ask this question for essay writing and referring to cinematography works. Formatting rules are more or less universal here, so they’ll be easy to remember.

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to write movie titles for various citation styles.

Are Movies Italicized?

Yes, please use italics for a movie title in essays (1) of all citation formats except for AP. When writing in AP, use quotations.

Another exception is the movie series. When writing the name of the series episode, put it in quotation marks.

 Example: 

•  In “The One with the Fake Monica” of  Friends , Ross tries to get his monkey Marcel into the zoo. 

“The One with the Fake Monica” is the episode’s name, so we put it in quotation marks. Friends is the name of the whole series, so we italicize it. If we wrote this sentence in AP style, “Friends” would be in double quotations, too.

Keep reading for more details.

How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay

Let’s find out how to put a movie title in an essay. To do that properly, consider the citation style you’ll use for the paper.

Differences are minor but still worthy to know and follow. Here they go:

Capitalization

All main parts of speech start with a capital letter in movie names. Exceptions:

• Determiners like definite and indefinite articles (the, a, an)
• Short prepositions and conjunctions (those shorter than four letters): of, on, in, and, etc.

Use uppercase for the above only if a movie title begins or ends with the article or short prepositions. Subtitles start with a capital letter, too.

• The First Slam Dunk; A Thousand and One; The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
• Huesera: The Bone Woman; Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem; John Wick: Chapter 4

APA, MLA, and Chicago Styles for Movie Titles

Need more? Check:

How to Write Book Titles in Essays How to Cite a Movie in APA Format

Italics vs. Double Quotations

The AP style is the one prescribing quotation marks, not italics for movie names. When writing in AP, format films like this:

• “Lamborghini: The Man Behind the Legend”
• “On the Line”
• “The School for Good and Evil”

Underlining?

Underline movie titles in papers only when writing them by hand. Since you can’t italicize your handwriting, it will help you highlight film names. Like this:

Punctuation

If a movie name includes punctuation, italicize or put it inside quotation marks.

• Transformers: Rise of the Beasts
• “Wham!” (AP style)
• Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret
• Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

Citing Movie Titles in References

How Do You Write a Movie Title in an Essay?

Now you know how to write a title of a movie in an essay. Why not take your favorite film and craft a story about it? The best way to remember rules is to practice them, agree?

Follow the guidelines, stick to the citation style — and you’ll write titles correctly.

References:

• https://nau.edu/writing-style-guide/treatment-of-titles/  
• Essay samples
• Essay writing
• Writing tips

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How to Title a Movie or Film in an Essay or Paper

College professors carefully look at proper nouns when grading student essays. They do this to ensure they are written correctly. When they find proper nouns, such as movie titles, are not written correctly, they do not give maximum points for formatting.

In this post, we will reveal how to write movie titles correctly in MLA, APA, Chicago, Harvard, and AP-style papers. What you will learn in the next few minutes will help you not lose formatting points during grading.

Let’s begin.

Formatting a Movie Title in an Essay or Paper

Notice that formatting and capitalizing movie titles in an essay or academic writing piece largely depends on the style guide that you are using. If you are writing in MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or APA, you must write the movie titles in italics. In AP style, you have to use quotes for the movie titles.

When referring to the movie within the body of your paper, all the major style guides prefer using a title case where all the major words in the movie title are capitalized.

Let us delve further into how best to write a movie title in a paper, depending on the writing style.

1. How To Write A Movie Title In-Text On An MLA-Style Paper

MLA stands for Modern Language Association. US college professors founded the association in the nineteenth century. It published the MLA format in 1951. The MLA format is the recommended format in humanities disciplines.

The correct way to write a movie title on an MLA-style paper is to capitalize the first letter of the first word and all the principal words in the title, including the hyphenated words. These words include proper nouns, common nouns, pronouns, adverbs, adjectives, subordinating conjunctions, and verbs. 

The only words you should not capitalize when you write a movie title in an MLA-style paper are the articles (e.g., a, an, the), coordinating conjunctions (e.g., but, or, for, and), and prepositions (e.g., on, of, between, against) after the first word.

In addition to following the above rule on capitalizing the first letter of the first word and every principal word, you should italicize your movie title. You must italicize your movie title in virtually all major writing styles.

Examples of correctly written movie titles in MLA style

• The movie The Batman follows a superhero’s battle to rid his city of criminals and criminal syndicates.
• Under the Skin is probably Johansson’s best performance as an actress to date.
• In Man of Fire, Washington is an alcoholic ex-CIA operative who gets a high-paying and high-drama job as a bodyguard in Mexico.

2. How to Write a Movie Title In-Text on an APA-Style Paper

APA is an acronym for American Psychological Association. Just like the MLA, the APA was founded in the nineteenth century. The APA stylebook was published in 1929 and is one of the world's most popularly used formatting styles.

The right way to write a movie title in APA style is to capitalize the first letter of the first word and every major word (nouns, pronouns, adverbs, adjectives, and verbs) in the sentence.

The only words that should not have their first letter capitalized are minor (articles plus prepositions and conjunctions under four letters long). In short, every word over three letters in length should have its first letter capitalized in an APA paper.

The above statement shows that writing a movie title in an APA-style paper is quite similar to doing the same in an MLA-style paper. The biggest difference is that all words with over three letters have their first letter capitalized. No MLA-style exceptions for long prepositions like between and against.

In addition to capitalizing the first letter, you must italicize the entire movie title in APA, just like in MLA.

Examples of correctly written movie titles in APA style

• Everyone who has watched The Pirates of the Caribbean loves the Captain Jack Sparrow character, played by Johnny Depp.
• In 12 Years a Slave, the director artfully reveals the deep hate and violence faced by slaves in pre-emancipation America.
• The Wolf of Wall Street is a fun yet thought-provoking film about a young man who made much money in the capital markets.

3. Writing A Movie Title In-Text On A Chicago-Style Paper

Writing a movie title on a Chicago-style paper is the same as writing a movie title on an MLA-style paper. You capitalize the first letter of the first word and every principal word in the sentence.

The only words you don’t capitalize are the articles (e.g., a, an, the), coordinating conjunctions (e.g., but, or, for, and), and prepositions (e.g., on, of, between, against) after the first word. Again, the case here is just like in MLA style format.

You also have to italicize your entire movie title in Chicago-style formatting.

Examples of correctly written movie titles in Chicago style

• In The Hunger Games, themes such as power, wealth, and violence dominate the storyline.
• Killers of the Flower Moon is an upcoming movie by Martin Scorsese based on gruesome events that took place in the Osage Nation.
• Schwarzenegger’s Terminator movie is a classic action film featuring a cyborg as the main character.

It is crucial to note that writing a movie title Chicago style is very similar to writing a movie title Harvard style. Therefore, if you want to know how to write a film title Harvard style, follow the rules and the examples above.

4. How to Write a Movie Title In-Text on an AP-Style Paper

The AP is an acronym for the Associated Press. This is a global news organization that was founded in the mid-nineteenth century. It is one of the most reliable news organizations in the world. The organization published the AP format for journalists to use in 1953.

The correct way to write a movie title on an AP-style paper is to capitalize the first letter of the first word and all the main words. Conjunctions and prepositions more than three letters long also need their first letter capitalized. The first letter of the last word also needs to be capitalized regardless of how long or short it is.

In addition to the above, the movie title must be put in quotations. It must not be italicized.

Examples of correctly written movie titles in AP style

• “Memories of Murder” is an award-winning movie that was released in 2006.
• Critics agree that “Train to Busan” is a well-made film with an exciting storyline, excellent actors, and wonderful cinematography.
• “American Pie” was among the best movies ever produced by Paul Weitz.

Seven Steps to Writing a Movie Title

Follow the steps below to write movie titles in your college papers correctly.

1. Ensure the Movie You Are Referencing Is the Correct Movie

It is relatively easy to confuse movies because sometimes films have the same name, and other times they have names that can easily be confused. Therefore, before writing any movie title in your essay, ensure the movie you want to note is correct.

Noting down a movie by name in your article and then it ends up being the wrong one could have consequences for you. It could make your essay confusing, disorganized, or poor. You do not want your professor to think your essay is any of these things if you want an excellent grade.

So do a bit of research to ensure you have the right movie.

2. Ensure You Have the Wording Right

Students often forget a part of a movie title when talking about a movie in their essays. This is unacceptable. It is unacceptable because it doesn’t give the reader the complete information they need to research should they feel it necessary.

Therefore, to ensure your work is perfect, make sure the movie title you want to note down has the right wording. Do not forget or ignore any articles, conjunctions, or prepositions.

3. Do Not Leave Out Articles

Many famous movies have an article before them, e.g., “the” or “a.” You must not ignore the article before a movie, even if you feel like your reader will still know what you are talking about. For example, even if you feel your reader will know Shawshank Redemption, writing down the movie title like this is wrong. Write the full title, e.g., The Shawshank Redemption.

Sometimes, an article is the only thing distinguishing one movie from another. Therefore, leaving it out could mislead the reader into thinking you are discussing something different from what you are talking about.

4. Capitalize the First Word and the Main Words

Most writing formats require you to capitalize the first and main words in a movie title when you write it in-text in an essay. This doesn’t mean you write everything in capital letters. It simply means you make the first letter in the first word a capital letter plus the first letter in every other keyword (noun, pronoun, adjectives, and so on).

The example below shows how to capitalize a movie title in an essay. Even if a movie title is written in all caps, you are still supposed to capture it in the manner detailed in the example.

Example: In The Hunger Games , themes such as power, violence . . .

The only words you are not supposed to capitalize when writing a movie title are the prepositions, conjunctions, and articles within the movie title. Check the example below.

Example: Everyone who has watched The Pirates of the Caribbean loves . . .

5. Italicize the Title

As you may have noticed so far in this article, movie titles are italicized in all the major writing formats. This is done to make it clear to the reader quickly what words are part of the title and the ones that are not.

Therefore, immediately after capitalizing a movie title in your essay, you should go ahead and italicize it. Instead of italicizing it, you can add quotation marks when a movie title is short. This is, however, not always tolerated by professors. In most cases, they expect movie titles in italics.

Only when writing an AP-style paper are you expected to add quotation marks to a movie title instead of italicizing it.

6. State the Year of Release

The first time you refer to a movie in your paper or essay, you should state the year it was publicly released in parentheses. This will help the reader to understand the movie better because they will have the time context.

Sometimes movies/films share names. Adding a year in parentheses helps the reader precisely tell which movie you are discussing. While stating the year of release is encouraged, it is not always necessary. In addition, in most cases, professors do not care if the year of release is stated.

If you choose to give the year of release, you should only do it the first time you mention the movie.

7. Consider Using an Assignment Help Service

If you doubt your formatting skills and are unsure how to write movie titles, consider using an assignment help service like Gradecrest.com. Experienced masters and Ph.D. graduates who know everything there is to know about formatting papers typically offer our movie review writing services. They can help you format and edit your paper to ensure it is standard.

Moreover, we also have experts who can help you write your paper from scratch. All you need to do is to order a paper on your topic of choice, and a writer will be assigned to it to deliver outstanding results. Unlike other assignment help services, our service goes above and beyond to ensure the papers our clients receive are error-free, plagiarism-free, and have zero CHAT-GPT input.

As we come to the End…

As you may have noticed in this article, there are so many rules to remember when you want to write a movie title in an essay. While the rules are similar across different writing styles/formats, they are also slightly different. You must check the rules for writing movie titles to ensure you are on the right track according to your college’s recommended writing style.

Related Readings:

• How to write the title of an article in an essay.

If you need assistance writing movie titles or formatting your paper, send it to us. We have expert writers with the knowledge and expertise to deliver top-quality papers. They also have the discipline and the professionalism not to use any shortcuts that could get our clients in trouble (e.g., AI and low-quality sources). Trust us today with your work, and we will deliver.

Is it necessary to include the year of release when writing a movie title in a college essay?

It is not necessary. When writing a movie title in a college essay, you must write it correctly and add a credible source on the ‘Works Cited page. You can include the year of release the first time you mention the movie in your essay. You can do this by putting the year in parentheses next to the movie title. But it is not a must.

Should I put quotation marks on a movie title?

No, you should not. You should capitalize and italicize it. Quotation marks are not required or recommended when writing a movie title following the APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago formats. They are only required when writing a movie title following the AP style. And when they are used in AP style, the title shouldn’t be italicized.

Should movie titles be written in title cases in an essay?

Yes, they should. All writing styles require you to write your movie title in title case (AP, APA, Chicago, MLA, and Harvard). The major words or principal words of the movie title should all be written in the title case.

Why do some news organizations put movie titles in quotations?

They do this because most news organizations require their journalists to follow the AP (Associated Press) style when writing news items. And since the AP format requires movies to be written in quotations rather than italics, you have the current situation where news articles have movie names in quotes.

Do you underline movie titles in essays?

No, you do not. You don’t underline movie titles in essays. This is because almost all writing and formatting styles require you to write the movie name in the title case and italicize it. Nothing more. You only underline movie titles in essays if you are handwriting your essay because italics aren’t possible when handwriting.

Is there a problem if I do not format my movie title correctly?

Yes, there is a problem. A big problem. You should format your move title correctly to get the total points for proper formatting during grade. If you don’t, you won’t get all the points your professor allocates for formatting the essay. This will result in a poor or average grade.

Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.

How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay: Examples and Tips

Writing essays is hard on its own. But there is also a whole bunch of different tiny details that can affect the final grade. These details, though may seem insignificant, can either make your essay worth an A+ or turn it into a real disaster. And one of such important but small details is the way you are writing movie titles in your paper.

If you are now wondering who even needs to know how to write movie titles in essays, it’s quite a natural concern. However, there are multiple occasions when you may need to do this. Namely, you will definitely have to mention the title when writing an essay about a specific movie, discovering the plot, and reflecting on your experience from watching it. Besides, you may need to use titles when supporting your ideas with quotes from movies or using them as examples.

But how to do it right?

This article, written by our write my essay service professionals, will be your ultimate guide to writing movie titles in essays in different formats, so sit back and let’s get down to it!

Writing Movie Titles: Key Principles and Rules

To succeed in writing an essay about a movie, follow these core principles and rules:

General rules

• Discuss the movie background first;
• Share your own experience;
• Study the main ideas and topics, and discuss how they were disclosed in the movie;
• Tell what lessons it can teach.

Basic grammar rules

• Follow the required formatting style;
• Write in the active voice;
• Structure your work appropriately;
• Make smooth transitions between ideas;
• Keep an eye on the correct punctuation of headings and titles.

These are the main tips from our write my essay for me service to keep in mind when writing a paper about a film. But, as we said earlier, there is also one more detail to pay special attention to - the titles.

So, let’s figure out how to punctuate movie titles the right way. First, to understand how to write movie titles in a paper, you need to understand that there are different formatting styles, each of which has different rules. The two most popular are MLA and APA.

So, now, let’s move on to the most important part and define how to write movie titles in an essay right!

How to Write Movie Titles in MLA?

As we said earlier, the MLA formatting style is one of the most common styles for essay writing. Just like any other style, it has its own manual that dictates how to organize and format your essay the right way.

Okay, but what is MLA format in the first place? This style, created by the Modern Language Association, is basically a collection of citing and formatting guidelines used in academic writing.

So, how to write movie titles MLA you may wonder? The MLA format for movie titles dictates that all titles should be formatted uniformly throughout the entire paper. And, basically, there are only two main rules 

• All first letters of the major words should be capitalized, excluding insignificant words like conjunctions, articles, prepositions, etc. (except those placed at the beginning of a sentence)
• All titles placed in the body of your work should also be italicized.

The Great Gatsby

The Lord of the Rings

Now you know how to write movie titles in an essay using the MLA format, but if you still have any troubles with ' do my paper ' request, just contact us! So let’s move on to the APA format.

How to Write Movie Titles in APA?

Another widely used format you may be required to use when writing an essay about movies is called APA. It was developed by the American Psychological Association and is most often applicable to academic writing and research performed in different fields of social sciences (e.g., sociology, psychology, anthropology, and so on).

If you are wondering how to write movie titles in APA style, the good news is that you already know how to do it. Here is one thing to remember - MLA, APA, and Chicago style as well, all imply using the same title case capitalization approach for all film titles. Also, all these three formats imply using italics.

Thus, the core rules for formatting AP style movie titles are no different from those we mentioned for the MLA styles:

• Capitalize the first letters of important words, leaving out prepositions, articles, etc.
• Italicize the entire title.

The only difference you should know about is that APA also requires you to capitalize words that include 4 letters or more (even if it’s a preposition, etc.).

Gone With the Wind

Tori Spelling as a Good Character to Write About in Your Essay

For a paper on a movie, a great choice can be the TV series Beverly Hills.

With its main cast featuring Tori Spelling, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, and others, Beverly Hills is a classic. The show spans a wide range of acute social issues like domestic violence, rape, homophobia, racism, teen suicide, early pregnancy, and many others. Thus, it’s very relevant for youth.

One of the main characters you can focus on is Donna Martin, performed by Tori Spelling Troop Beverly Hills. What makes Tori Spelling 90210 notable is that she is one of the few actors to appear consistently throughout the entire show.

What do you need to know about Tori Spelling? A 48-year-old star of a cult show is a daughter of a famous producer Aaron Spelling, who, in fact, produced Beverly Hills. She was only 17 when she got the role. And, appearing in the show from 1990 to 2000, she was twice nominated for the Young Artist Award.

In 2019, Tori also participated in the show “The Masked Singer.” In the show, Tori Spelling nickname was the Unicorn.

If you need any help with writing an essay about a movie or any other kind of paper contact our service with your ' do my essay for me ' request.

Older Than America Movie: Title Ideas for Your Essay

If the idea of writing an essay about the Beverly Hills series didn’t inspire you, another great subject for your paper could be the Older than America film.

Older than America movie was released in 2008. It is a suspense drama movie directed by Georgina Lightning and featuring Georgina herself, as well as Bradley Cooper, Adam Beach, Tantoo Cardinal, and Wes Studi.

If you are wondering what makes Older than America a great topic choice for an essay, the movie displays several unique stories that explore the devastating impacts of Native American Boarding Schools on children from the American Indian community. 

What should your title be like? Given the wide range of deep topics discussed in this movie, the number of possible title options is vast. Here are a few samples:

• Older than America: The Causes and Effects of Cultural Genocide
• The Hardship of Assimilation in a Culturally Different Society on the Example of Older than America Movie
• Older than America: Is It Ethical to Try to “Civilize” Children and Youth Into a Different Culture

Need help with your paper? Just drop us a line saying, 'please, write an essay for me ,' and we’ll help you get the highest grade with ease!

Writing Movie Titles in Essays

So, now you should know how to write the title of a movie in an essay. We’ve also shared the example of MLA and AP style movie titles. And the only question that is still left unanswered is how exactly you should write an essay about movies and what you can do to make it flawless?

In this part of our DoMyEssay article, based on the example of a cult TV show Beverly Hills, we will tell you how to start an essay about a movie, how to write it well, and how to ensure success. Here come the main tips and tricks you need to know:

• Watch it fully (maybe even a couple of times).
• Write about the background. For instance, speaking of Beverly Hills, try to dig deeper to define what else is there apart from teen drama related to relationships and friendships; namely, as we said earlier, there is a wide range of acute problems discussed in the show, and you should recognize them.
• Tell about your own reflection on the piece. Tell what you grasped from watching Beverly Hills, how it affected you, and how you feel after watching it. Important: do not repeat the background and plot, instead make a reflection on the characters and events that impressed you the most.
• Assess it critically. Analyze the storyline and topics discussed in Beverly Hills, assess how producers used music and special effects to make a better impression, evaluate the acting skills of the main cast, etc.
• Finish with some lessons learned. Tell readers about the lessons you personally and youth, in general, learn from the series. Namely, the show teaches us many vital life lessons such as - parents always have great wisdom, appearances can be very deceiving, we can handle anything, etc.

Hopefully, this was helpful. Follow the tips our essay writers team shared, and you should be able to write a great essay without a hassle!

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Step By Step Guide to Writing an Essay on Film

By Film Threat Staff | December 29, 2021

Writing an essay about a film sounds like a fun assignment to do. As part of the assignment, you get to watch the movie and write an analytical essay about your impressions. However, you will soon find that you’re staring at an empty sheet of paper or computer screen with no idea what to write, how to start writing your essay, or the essential points that need to be covered and analyzed. As an  essay writing service proves, watching the movie countless times isn’t all there is to write a film analysis essay. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with an essay service :

1. Watch the Movie

This is the obvious starting point, but surprisingly many students skip this step. It doesn’t matter if you’ve watched the movie twice before. If you’re asked to write an essay about it, you need to watch it again. Watching the film again allows you to pay more attention to specific elements to help you write an in-depth analysis about it.  

Watching the movie is crucial because it helps you not specific parts of the movie that can be used as illustrations and examples in your essay. You’re also going to explore and analyze the movie theme within your structured plan. Some of the critical elements that you have to look out for while watching the movie that may be crucial for your essay are:

• Key plot moments
• Editing style
• Stylistic elements
• Scenario execution
• Musical elements

2. Introduction

Your introduction will contain essential information about the film, such as the title, release date, director’s name, etc. This familiarizes the reader with the movie’s primary background information. In addition, researching the filmmaker may be crucial for your essay because it may help you discover valuable insights for your film analysis.

The introduction should also mention the movie’s central theme and explain why you think it was made that way.

Do not forget to include your thesis statement, which explains your focus on the movie.

3. Write a Summary

According to an  essay writing service  providing students   help with essays , a movie summary comes after the introduction. It includes the film’s basic premise, but it doesn’t have to reveal too many details about the film. It’s a summary, after all. Write the summary like your readers have not heard about the movie before, so you can mention the most basic plots but assume you have minimal time so you won’t be going into great details.

4. Write Your Analysis

This is the central part of the essay in which you analyze the movie critically and state your impressions about the film. Ensure to support your claims with relevant materials from the movie.

There are also several creative elements in a movie that are connected to make the film a whole. You must pay attention to these elements while watching the movie and analyze them in this part of the essay.

In this, you are looking out for the dialogs, character development, completion of scenes, and logical event sequences in the film to analyze.

Ensure you try to understand the logic behind events in the film and the actor’s motives to explain the scenario better.

The responsibility of different parts of the movie, such as plan selection and scenario execution, falls on the director. So, your analysis here focuses on how the director realized the script compared to his other movies. Understanding the director’s style of directing may be crucial to coming up with a conclusion relevant to your analysis and thesis.

The casting of a film is a significant element to consider in your essay. Without a great actor, the scriptwriter and director can’t bring their ideas to life. So, watch the actor’s acting and determine if they portrayed the character effectively and if their acting aligns with the film’s main idea.

• Musical element

A movie’s musical element enhances some of the sceneries or actions in the film and sets the mood. It has a massive impact on the movie, so it’s an essential element to analyze in your essay.

• Visual elements

This includes special effects, make-up, costumes, etc., which significantly impact the film. These elements must reflect the film’s atmosphere. It is even more crucial for historical movies since it has to be specific about an era.

Ensure to analyze elements relevant to your thesis statement, so you don’t drift from your main point.

5. Conclusion

In concluding your essay, you have to summarize the primary concepts more convincingly to support your analysis. Finally, you may include a CTA for readers to watch or avoid the movie.

These are the crucial steps to take when writing an essay about a film . Knowing this beforehand prevents you from struggling to start writing after watching the movie.

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APA Style (7th Edition) Citation Guide: Films/Videos/TV Shows

• Introduction
• Journal Articles
• Magazine/Newspaper Articles
• Books & Ebooks
• Government & Legal Documents
• Biblical Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Films/Videos/TV Shows
• How to Cite: Other
• Additional Help

Table of Contents

Film or Video

Streaming Video From a Website (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.)

Streaming video from a subscription media website (netflix, amazon prime, hulu, etc.), streaming video from a library database, television series episode.

Note: All citations should be double spaced and have a hanging indent in a Reference List.

A "hanging indent" means that each subsequent line after the first line of your citation should be indented by 0.5 inches.

This Microsoft support page contains instructions about how to format a hanging indent in a paper.

Who to Credit - Film or Video

The director should be credited as the author of a film. If the director is unknown, someone in a similar role, such as a producer and/or writer, can be credited. To clarify what role the person has in the production, their job title such as Director is put after their name in round brackets if the job title is known.

Who to Credit - Streaming Video from a Website

For videos from websites such as YouTube or Vimeo, credit the person who posted the content. If a real name is provided, use that followed by the person's user name in square brackets. If the real name of the person who posted the content is not known, just use their user name without brackets.

Note : It is not necessary to specify how you watched a film or video (e.g. motion picture, DVD, streaming online). 

In the Body of a Paper

Books, Journals, Reports, Webpages, etc.: When you refer to titles of a “stand-alone work,” as the APA calls them on their APA Style website, such as books, journals, reports, and webpages, you should italicize them. Capitalize words as you would for an article title in a reference, e.g., In the book Crying in H Mart: A memoir , author Michelle Zauner (2021) describes her biracial origin and its impact on her identity.

Article or Chapter: When you refer to the title of a part of a work, such as an article or a chapter, put quotation marks around the title and capitalize it as you would for a journal title in a reference, e.g., In the chapter “Where’s the Wine,” Zauner (2021) describes how she decided to become a musician.

The APA Sample Paper below has more information about formatting your paper.

• APA 7th ed. Sample Paper

Film or Video

When the Director, Producer and/or Writer is known:

Director/Producer/Writer's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if given. (Job Title). (Year film was produced).  Title of film: Subtitle if any  [Film]. Production Company.

Note: If not produced in the United States, list the city name and the country.

Hallam, J. (Producer, Writer), & Lam, K. (Producer, Director). (2010).  Staff relations in healthcare: Working as a team  [Film]. Insight Media.

• When you have more than one producer, writer and/or writer to credit, separate the names with a comma and put an ampersand (&) before the last person's last name.
• Serling, R. (Executive Producer). (1959–1964). The twilight zone [TV series]. Cayuga Productions; CBS Productions.

In-Text Paraphrase:

(Producer/Director/Writer's Last Name, Year)

Example: (Hallam & Lam, 2010)

Note: This example has two people to credit, so both last names are given)

In-Text Quote:

(Producer/Director/Writer's Last Name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Hallam & Lam, 2010, 2:30)

Note: Because the timestamp serves the same purpose in a video as page numbers, paragraph numbers or section headings, you include it in the in-text citation. Include only the beginning timestamp.

When the Director, Producer and/or Writer is not known:  Start the citation with the film title.

Title of film: Subtitle if any  [Film]. (Year film was produced). Production Company if Known.

Era of viruses  [Film]. (2006). Films for the Humanities and Sciences.

( Title of Film , Year)

Example: ( Era of Viruses , 2006)

Note: Italicize the title of the film and capitalize the words for the in-text citation.

( Title of Film , Year, Timestamp)

Example: ( Era of Viruses , 2006, 40:00)

When the Poster's Name is known: 

Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial. of person who posted the video if known. [User name that posted the video]. (Year video was posted, Month Day).  Title of video  [Video]. Website Name. URL

Note: According to APA, for citing purposes the person who posted the video is credited as the author.

Nye, B. [TheRealBillNye]. (2009, April 8).  Bill Nye the science guy on energy  [Video]. YouTube. http://youtu.be/0ASLLiuejAo

(Creator's Last Name, Year)

Example: (Nye, 2009)

(Creator's Last Name, Year, timestamp)

Example: (Nye, 2009, 0:55)

When the Poster's Name is not known: 

User name that posted the video. (Year video was posted, Month Day).  Title of video  [Video]. Website Name. URL

All Aces Media. (2012, January 19).  Often awesome the series  [Video]. Vimeo. http://vimeo.com/35311255

(User name, Year)

Example: (All Aces Media, 2012)

Example: (All Aces Media, 2012, timestamp)

Producer's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Producer). (Year of Publication).  Title of Video  [Video]. Website Name. URL

Note:  When you have one producer (Producer) is used after the producer's name. If you have more than one producer use (Producers) instead.

Allen, T., et. al. (Producers). (2017). The story of Diana  [Video]. Netflix. http://www.netflix.com

(Producer Last name, Year)

Example: (Allen, et. al., 2017)

(Producer Last name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Allen, et. al., 2017, 6:45)

Name of Company/Organization that Provided Content or Creator's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial. if known. (Year video was created, Month Day if known).  Title of video  [Video]. Database Name.

National Film Board of Canada. (2014).  Making movie history: The women  [Video]. NFB Campus. 

(Name of Company/Organization, Year)

Example: (National Film Board of Canada, 2014)

(Name of Company/Organization, Year, Timestamp)

Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if given. (Job Title) if known. (Year the episode was originally aired). Title of episode (Season No., Episode No.) [TV series episode]. In Executive Producer's First Initial. Last Name (Executive producer) if known,  Television series name . Production Company.

Note: For other countries, list the city name and the country.

Young, R. (Writer, Producer, Director). (2010). Flying cheap (Season 2010, Episode 2) [TV series episode]. In  Frontline . American University School of Communication's Investigative Reporting Workshop.

(Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, Year)

Example: (Young, 2010)

(Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Young, 2010, 15:38)

Television Series Episode Viewed on a Subscription Media Website 

Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if given. (Job Title) if known. (Year the episode was originally aired). Title of episode (Season No., Episode No.) [TV series episode]. In Executive Producer's First Initial. Last Name (Executive producer) if known,  Television series name . Streaming Video Site. URL

Attenborough, D. (Writer). (2001). Ocean world (Season 1, Episode 1) [TV series episode]. In A. Fothergill (Executive producer),  Blue planet: A natural history of the oceans . Netflix. http://www.netflix.com

Example: (Attenborough, 2001)

 (Writer, Producer and/or Director's Last Name, Year, Timestamp)

Example: (Attenborough, 2001, 10:12)

• << Previous: Secondary Sources
• Next: How to Cite: Other >>
• Last Updated: Jun 28, 2024 12:34 PM
• URL: https://libguides.up.edu/apa

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• How to Write a Movie Title in an Essay

It Is Not That Complicated

Usually, every university has a specific formatting style that all the students need to use in their written works. If you do not know which one to use, ask your teacher or visit your school’s website. While you are on the website, download the document with all the requirements for essays you need to meet. You will definitely find a lot of useful information there. But let’s get back to writing movie titles. Two of the most common formatting styles are APA and MLA. Luckily for all the students, the rule is universal for these styles: you should italicize the title of a movie you mention while writing an essay. There is no need for placing it in quotation marks, though. If you are writing a movie review, the title can look something like this:

Back to the Future

Pretty Woman

Everything looks easy so far. The only thing that can give you a headache is the capitalization rules of different formats. Read them carefully to make sure you do everything right.

Tips on Coping with the Assignment

Some students believe that the key to coping with this assignment successfully is to choose a deep and renowned movie. Then, they think it will be easier to impress their teachers. However, it is not always the case. You can write about some silly teenage comedy if you really enjoy watching it. The most important thing is to be able to analyze the movie you’ve chosen. Here are some tips on how to do it.

• Do not limit yourself to watching the chosen movie just once . Watch it a couple of times. If you watch it one time, there is a high probability of missing some important details. You don’t necessarily need to do it right after the first time. If the assignment is not urgent, watch it in a day or two.
• Discuss it critically . Was the plot any good? Did the actors do a good job? Do you think something is missing in the film? Show the readers that you know what you are writing about and can assess the work of others objectively.
• Describe your emotions . It is a good idea to reflect on what you’ve seen. What made the biggest impression on you? Would you recommend someone to watch this movie and why? Think about these questions and try to understand what impact does this film has on you.

For instance, if you need to write a review of a movie about Dalmatians, you do not need to become a member of the Dalmatian Club . Even though you would get a unique experience there, it is not going to help you evaluate all the aspects of the movie critically. By joining the Dalmatian Club , you will get many insightful facts that will help you notice any possible inaccuracies. Nonetheless, it is not your primary task. If you are confused and do not understand how to incorporate the above-mentioned tips into your writing, order a cheap essay here and let our experienced writers assist you. Even if you do not know what movie to choose for your review, our team will help you compose a list of personal essay topics to simplify the task. Rely on our experience and you will cope with any assignment faster.

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How to Write the Name of a Movie in an Essay

Writing essays entails finding information from books, journals, or online sources. The diversity of sources enhances your writing creativity. Sometimes your professor may ask you to refer to movies. In such a case, there will be a concern about how to write the name of the movie. You need think of a good way to use a movie title in an essay.

There are various styles of writing a movie title. The choice of a style depends on your preference or your professor's guidelines. You will always be concerned about the formats and whether to italicize the titles. There will also be the issue of mentioning the names of actors. Below is a simple guideline to ensure you get the title right.

Main Principles Of Writing Movie Titles In Essays

Choosing the right movie can help you to get started. Be careful in your selection because some movies may have similar titles. Also, consider the words used in the title. Many movies have multiple titles because they are retitled to fit different countries. Others have had their titles changed with time. When referring to a movie, ensure you know its actual title.

If you don't understand the essay writing principles, find online help. By having your work done by our essay writing service , you will submit an excellent project. Our writers are professionals in academic writing and will deliver work on time.

Other rules of writing titles are as follows:

• Share your experience
• Highlight the lessons from the movie
• Start by discussing the background
• Understand the main topics and ideas. Discuss the way they have been disclosed in the movie. 
• Follow the right formatting style
• Follow the right structure
• Use active voice
• Use the correct punctuation of titles and headings
• Connect ideas well

How To Write Movie Titles In APA Format

APA is a common style used in writing movie titles. It applies to academic writing, mainly in social sciences. APA, Chicago, and MLA use the same approach to title case capitalization.

In APA format, always capitalize the first letters of significant words. This excludes articles and prepositions. The title should also be capitalized. You must capitalize words with more than four letters, including prepositions or articles. For example, “Tapping The Sky.”`

Put the name of the movie in italics and the name of the DVD chapter in quotes. The name of the movie scene should also be in a quote.

How To Write Movie Titles In MLA Format

This writing style was developed by the Modern Language Association. It is a collection of formatting and citing guidelines applied in academic writing. You should format all titles consistently in the entire paper.

Capitalize the first letters of the main words. This excludes insignificant words such as articles, prepositions, and conjunctions. Capitalize the insignificant words if they appear at the beginning of a sentence. All titles in your work's body also need to be capitalized.

The words that should not be capitalized when using movie title in an essay include:

• Prepositions that are part of the title (for example, between, on, of, against)
• Articles that are part of the title
• Coordinating conjunctions such as “but”, “and”, “for”, and “or”

Do I need to underline my title movie?

Many people tend to underline their titles using a word processor. The best approach is not to underline.

Is the year of release necessary in a movie title?

Yes, you need to mention the year of release in your reference. You don't have to include it in the main text. However, you can include it in the text if different movies have the same title.

Do I need to quote the title of the movie in my essay?

When using APA referencing style, use quotation marks in the movie title. For other referencing styles, there is no need to quote the movie title.

Why should I do a film title?

Any long work, such as a television series or a movie, should be italicized. Short work such as poems, articles, and stories should be put in quotes.

How should I quote a film line?

Use the movie title in the form of parenthesis in the in-text citation. MLA style uses the name of the author and the page number for citations. Movies have no page numbers. So use the movie name under the “works cited”

What is the ideal length of a movie title?

Movie titles need to be short and clear. Movies with a one-word title can have a significant impact if they capture the essence of the movie. So, it is good to avoid a one-word title.

How should I cite a film script?

• Always start with the last name of the author at the beginning of your citation line.
• Write the film name in italics, followed by a period
• Write the name of the publisher
• After the publisher, including the year of script creation

What is the best way to cite a character?

Begin the first entry of your reference list with the performer's name. Only focus on the performer whose character is outstanding. List the actor's last name and first name in that order.

How do I create a script title?

As a writer, be careful about the words in the script. Your title must provide a taste of the genre and the main storyline.

What is the general way of quoting a film title in an essay?

Use the film title only in your essay. Instead of italicizing the title, use quotation marks around your title. The first and the last words of the film must be capitalized. Capitalize prepositions and verbs if they have three letters or more.

Should movie titles be italicized?

Italicizing movie titles applies to most writing styles. The purpose of italicizing is to set your text apart from the other parts of the sentence. It also shows the words that are part of the movie title.

Besides italicizing the titles of short movies, you should also place them in quotation marks. This applies to movies under thirty minutes and segments within larger movies. This rule is not very strict. So, check the writing style guide to see when to use different punctuation.

There is also an exception in news writing. For the Associated Press style of writing, always include quotation marks in your titles. Italics are not necessary because AP style prohibits the use of italicization in most academic writing.

In summary, these are the basic rules:

• Italicize the series name
• Italicize the film name
• Quote the DVD chapter or the scene name
• Quote the episode's name

Do you underline movie titles?

MLA and APA referencing styles use the same format for movie titles. In these styles, you should not underline the film titles. Write them in italics in the main body of your essay. Underlining texts was more popular during the previous age. When you type on a computer, the usual practice is to use italics.

Demonstrate your skills to your professors by naming your movie well in an essay. By following the guidelines, you can create an excellent project. This can also be fun and interesting. Choose an interesting essay topic and follow the above guide carefully. This is the easiest way to get good grades and excel academically. You can also order essay and get affordable assistance and great value. Reach out to professional academic writers instead of struggling to meet deadlines.

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• Knowledge Base
• How to cite a movie in MLA

How to Cite a Movie in MLA Style | Format & Examples

Published on August 1, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on March 5, 2024.

To cite a film in MLA, include the title, the director, any other relevant contributors, the production or distribution company, and the year of release. If there are multiple versions of a film, you also need to identify the version.

To cite a movie from Netflix (and similar online streaming services), add the name of the website or app (e.g. “Netflix app”). If you watched the movie on an unofficial website or video-sharing platform like YouTube, add the website name, the uploader, the date of upload, and the URL.

In the MLA in-text citation , include the title (or a shortened version of it) and the time range.

Scribbr’s free MLA Citation Generator can help you easily create MLA citations for movies.

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Table of contents

Mla movie citation format, citing online movies, mla in-text citations for movies.

You build an MLA Works Cited entry by filling in the relevant elements. An MLA citation usually starts with the author’s name, but because films are created by many different people, you start the citation with the film’s title instead. The director appears after the title as a contributor.

Other contributors

If relevant, you can also add other contributors, as with TV shows . For example, if your paper mentions specific performances, you can include the actors in your citation; if you discuss the film’s visuals, you can include the cinematographer.

Identify the role of each contributor and separate them with commas.

If your discussion of the movie focuses mainly on one contributor (e.g. the director or a performer), you can choose to include that name at the start of the citation instead, where the author would normally go.

In this case, make sure to use the same name in your in-text citation.

If there are different versions of a film, you need to state which one you used so the reader can find the correct source (e.g. extended version, director’s cut).

If this version was released later than the original, you can also add the year of the original release after the title. This is optional, but it is often helpful to give the historical context of the source.

Films are often produced and distributed by several different companies, which can make it difficult to determine the publisher .

Try to identify the organization that had primary responsibility for the movie’s production or distribution. If multiple production companies and/or distributors were equally involved, you can separate them with a forward slash.

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If you stream a film on an official distribution platform like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, you can choose to add information about the platform to the Works Cited entry if you think it’s relevant.

If the film was republished on a website unconnected to the producers or official distributors (such as YouTube, where anyone can upload a copy of a movie), you should generally include this information in the citation.

After giving full details of the movie, add the name of the website , the uploader , the date it was published, and the URL .

Note that this format only applies to full movies uploaded to YouTube. If you are citing a clip or other material on YouTube, follow the format for citing a YouTube video instead.

The in-text citation must always correspond with the first word of the Works Cited entry. For movie citations, this is usually the title in italics. If the title is longer than a few words, shorten it to the first word or phrase.

Instead of a page number, add the time range of the part you are quoting or referring to.

If you have already mentioned the title in the sentence, the parenthetical citation only needs to include the time range.

If you are referring to the movie as a whole, it is acceptable to mention only the title with no time range.

If you start the Works Cited entry with the name of a contributor , make sure to use this name in the in-text citation so that the reader can easily locate it in the alphabetized list.

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McCombes, S. (2024, March 05). How to Cite a Movie in MLA Style | Format & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/mla/how-to-cite-a-movie/

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How to Punctuate Movie Titles in Writing: Get it Right!

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Understanding the importance of proper punctuation in movie titles

Why punctuation plays a vital role in movie titles, a guide to punctuating movie titles in writing, differentiating between italicization and quotation marks for movie titles, exceptions to the traditional punctuation rules for movie titles, tips for punctuating movie titles in essays and articles, avoiding common mistakes when punctuating movie titles, a comprehensive list of correctly punctuated movie titles in writing, frequently asked questions, to conclude.

When it comes to movie titles, one might argue that punctuation is just a trivial aspect. However, its importance cannot be underestimated, as it can significantly impact the way a movie is perceived and understood. Proper punctuation in movie titles serves multiple purposes, from clarifying the meaning to enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. Let’s delve into why mastering the art of punctuation in movie titles is essential for filmmakers and audiences alike.

1. Providing clarity: Punctuation marks such as commas, colons, and question marks help convey the intended message more effectively. They assist in breaking down complex ideas, clarifying relationships between elements, and avoiding ambiguity that might arise in titles.

2. Reflecting artistic choices: The strategic use of punctuation can add depth and intrigue to movie titles, reflecting the tone, mood, or theme of the film. Whether it’s an ellipsis creating anticipation or an exclamation mark eliciting excitement, punctuation styles can convey emotions that words alone may struggle to express.

Movie titles can be a bit tricky to punctuate correctly in writing, but fear not! We’ve got you covered with this handy guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of punctuating movie titles like a pro. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:

1. Formatting: When writing a movie title in your text, it should be italicized or underlined to indicate that it is a title. For example, you would write “I can’t wait to watch the *Titanic* tonight!” or “I loved the movie *The Lion King*.”

2. Commas: If you are referring to a movie title in a sentence, you should use commas to separate it from the rest of the sentence. For instance, you would write “One of my favorite movies of all time is *Gone with the Wind*, which was released in 1939.” or “The film *Jurassic Park*, directed by Steven Spielberg, became a box office hit.”

When it comes to referencing movie titles, it can be confusing to determine whether to use italicization or quotation marks. Understanding the difference between the two can help you correctly format movie titles in your writing. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. **Italicization**: Movie titles are typically italicized when mentioned in text. Here’s how you should format them: – The *Shawshank Redemption* is considered a classic in the film industry. – I watched *The Godfather* last night and was captivated by its storyline. – *Titanic* won numerous awards, including Best Picture.

2. **Quotation Marks**: Quotation marks are used for shorter works within larger works, such as a movie scene or an episode title within a TV series. This distinction is important: – In the movie *Forrest Gump*, the iconic line “Life is like a box of chocolates” is uttered by the protagonist. – The episode “The One with the Prom Video” in the TV show *Friends* is regarded as one of the most memorable. – “I’ll be back,” a famous quote from the movie *The Terminator*, has become a popular catchphrase.

In the vast world of movie titles, we often come across unique expressions that challenge our traditional understanding of punctuation. While most titles follow the standard punctuation rules, there are exceptions that add an extra layer of creativity. These exceptions allow filmmakers to evoke different emotions or add a touch of quirkiness to their works. Here are a few instances where the punctuation rules take a delightful twist:

1. *No Country for Old Men*: This Academy Award-winning film directed by the Coen brothers boldly rejects the use of punctuation in its title. By omitting the apostrophe in “Men,” the title implies a sense of ambiguity, leaving viewers to ponder the deeper meaning behind the absence.

2. *3 Idiots*: This Bollywood blockbuster follows the trend of numerals in its title, but surprises us by excluding the commas, which are usually used to separate the numerals. This choice reflects the youthful and carefree nature of the film, maintaining a casual and playful tone throughout the narrative.

3. *Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind*: Here we witness a title adorned with multiple prepositions, connecting words, and even an adjective. This non-conventional approach invites the audience to explore the philosophical and complex themes of memory and love that the movie delves into.

Whether it’s deliberately breaking punctuation rules to catch our attention or adding an unconventional charm, these exceptions remind us of the boundless creativity within the realm of movie titles. So, the next time you come across a film with a uniquely punctuated title, embrace the deviations and enjoy the wonderful journey it promises to deliver.

When including movie titles in your essays or articles, it is important to properly punctuate them to ensure clarity and accuracy. Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate the world of punctuating movie titles:

1. Use quotation marks: When referring to a specific movie title, enclose it in quotation marks. For example, “Inception” is an intricate and mind-boggling film that explores the depths of dreams and reality.

2. Capitalize important words: When writing a movie title, capitalize the first and last words, along with all principal words in between. However, minor words such as articles and prepositions should not be capitalized, unless they are the first word of the title. For instance, “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” is a captivating adventure filled with mythical creatures and epic battles.

3. Italics for emphasis: You can also use italics to emphasize movie titles instead of quotation marks. This is a common practice in academic writing. For example, the movie Matrix provides a unique and thought-provoking exploration of simulated reality.

By following these simple tips, you can effectively punctuate movie titles in your essays and articles, enabling your readers to better comprehend your content while showcasing your attention to detail. Remember to consistently apply these rules throughout your work, ensuring consistency and professionalism. Now go forth and create well-punctuated masterpieces!

Properly punctuating movie titles might seem like a trivial matter, but it can significantly impact the overall presentation and professionalism of your writing. To ensure that you always get it right, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Mixing capitalization: It’s essential to use proper capitalization when punctuating movie titles. Unless they are articles, prepositions, or coordinating conjunctions, capitalize all major words. For instance, in the title “Gone with the Wind,” the word “with” should remain lowercase.
• Omitting italics or quotation marks: Movie titles should always be italicized or enclosed in quotation marks to distinguish them from the rest of the text. For example, you should write “Casablanca” or Casablanca instead of just Casablanca.
• Using the wrong punctuation marks: Always be cautious about which punctuation marks to use when punctuating movie titles. Commas and periods go inside quotation marks, while colons and exclamation points go outside. For instance, “The Shawshank Redemption,” not “The Shawshank Redemption”.

By remembering to avoid these common mistakes, you can ensure your writing reflects attention to detail and precision. Properly punctuating movie titles not only enhances readability but also demonstrates a mastery of grammar and style.

Proper punctuation is crucial when writing movie titles as it helps convey the intended meaning and captures the essence of the film. Below, you will find a comprehensive list of correctly punctuated movie titles that will add finesse to your written work:

• The Shawshank Redemption: A gripping tale of hope and friendship set within the confines of Shawshank State Penitentiary.
• Gone with the Wind: A timeless classic showcasing the tumultuous romance between Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler during the Civil War.
• Casablanca: An unforgettable love story set against the backdrop of World War II in the city of Casablanca.
• The Dark Knight: Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece, where Batman takes on the iconic Joker in a battle for Gotham City’s soul.

Remember to italicize the titles of movies when writing them within a text and to place them inside quotation marks when referring to them in an essay or article. These simple yet essential formatting rules can elevate your writing and give your readers a clear indication of the movie titles you are referencing.

Q: Why is it important to punctuate movie titles correctly in writing? A: Correct punctuation of movie titles is essential in writing to ensure clarity, adhere to grammar rules, and give proper credit to the creative work you are referencing.

Q: How do I punctuate a movie title in a sentence? A: When including a movie title in a sentence, you should capitalize all the major words. For example: “I absolutely loved the movie ‘Inception’!”

Q: Which words in a movie title should be capitalized? A: In general, capitalize all significant words in a movie title. This includes nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and subordinate conjunctions. However, prepositions and articles (e.g., “and”, “for”, “the”) should remain lowercase unless they are the first or last word of the movie title.

Q: Are there any exceptions to capitalizing in movie titles? A: Yes, when dealing with short words, you may follow your preferred style guide. Some guides suggest ignoring short words (less than four letters), such as “the”, “and”, “or”, while others advise capitalizing them regardless. Consistency is key, so choose a preferred style and stick to it.

Q: How should I punctuate movie titles that are in italics or underlined? A: If the movie title is printed in italics or underlined, you should still follow the same capitalization rules mentioned earlier. For example: “I can’t wait to see ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ again!”

Q: What if I need to mention multiple movie titles in the same sentence? A: If you discuss multiple movie titles in the same sentence, capitalize the major words in each title, and separate them using commas. For instance: “Several great movies, including ‘Gone with the Wind,’ ‘The Godfather,’ and ‘Casablanca,’ were screened at the film festival.”

Q: How do I punctuate movie titles in headlines or titles of articles? A: In most cases, you should capitalize the first and last words of a movie title and all significant words in between. Prepositions and articles should remain lowercase unless they are the first or last word. For example: “Discover the Secrets Behind ‘The Matrix’ Trilogy.”

Q: Can I use quotation marks to punctuate movie titles? A: Yes, quotation marks are commonly used to indicate movie titles, especially in informal writing or when referring to specific scenes or lines. For example: “Remember when Jack said, ‘I’m the king of the world!’ in ‘Titanic’?”

Q: What if the movie title contains a punctuation mark itself? A: If the movie title includes a punctuation mark, such as an exclamation point or question mark, it should be retained as part of the title and treated like any other word. Capitalize the first and last words as well as any other significant words.

Q: Are there any references or resources available to ensure proper punctuation of movie titles? A: Yes, there are various style guides such as the APA Style Guide, The Chicago Manual of Style, and the Modern Language Association (MLA) Handbook that provide detailed rules and examples for punctuating movie titles, among various other writing guidelines.

In conclusion, properly punctuating movie titles in writing is essential for clear and professional communication. Don’t forget those rules!

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How To Write An Essay

How To Title An Essay

Learn How to Title an Essay Like a Professional Writer

15 min read

Published on: Mar 1, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

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A title is the one thing that makes your essay and all academic papers impressive. This is because it is the first thing that a reader looks at and decides whether to give your essay a shot or not. 

Naturally, things with amusing and interesting titles tend to be more read-worthy.  A right and accurate title can either make your essay a success or a complete disaster. 

It might sound easy to give a title to your essay, but it can be daunting in reality. Creating a title is an art, and not everybody knows how to do it. 

This writing guide is provided to know how important it is to give a correct title to your writing and polish your writing skills. 

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What is an Essay Title

An essay title is the name or label given to an essay, which provides a brief summary of the main topic or theme of the essay.

It should be catchy, informative, and relevant to the content of the essay, while also giving readers an idea of what to expect from the writing. 

A good essay title should capture the reader's attention and make them interested in reading the essay.

Purpose and Importance of Essay Title

A title holds great importance in essay writing. It can easily make or break the quality of your work. 

Choosing a title that interests the audience and motivates them to read your essay. This is because they are intrigued, it serves as fertile land to present your knowledge, ideas, writing skills, and critical thinking.   

Qualities of an Essay Title

When coming up with the topic or title for your essays, keep in mind that it should contain the following qualities: 

• Eye-catching and unique: The title should be eye-catching and unique to grab the reader’s attention.
• Based on facts: A good title is always believable and based on facts. Especially for writing essay types and papers that stand on facts and logic should have believable titles. 
• Audience-appropriate: Readability is key. Using fancy and bombastic vocabulary that is not common for the audience will affect the readership. 
• Tone: A great essay title is always written in an active voice. 
• Brief and Short: The title should be brief and to the point. Avoid dragging titles into long sentences. 
• To-the-Point: An essay title should be accurate and clearly present the main theme of the essay. This will allow the reader to know what to expect from the document. 

Components of an Essay Title

Just as all formal writings have an outline to follow, a good essay title is constructed using a formula as well. Keep in mind that the shorter, the better. A title must not exceed 10 to 12 words.

The components of an essay title include

• An attention-grabbing and catchy hook
• Tone sets the overall mood or attitude conveyed by the title.
• The focus keyword - the “where” and “when” in your essay. 

Once you know the importance and elements of an essay title, you are more likely to create a better title.

How to Title an Essay?

Almost all essay writers find it tricky to make an appropriate title for their essays. However, writing a title is not only based on good writing skills. You need to know the basics of creating it. 

A good and effective essay title can be created by taking the following steps:

1. First Write an Essay 

It will be extremely beneficial and easy to create a title once you have written an entire essay.

After writing your essay, you will be clear about what title suits your content the most. Complete your essay and then start reading it.

This will give you a clearer picture of how to address the essay properly.

Deciding on a topic or a title can be time taking. Another advantage of writing a title at the end is that it saves a lot of your time. 

Also, the wrong topic makes it difficult for you to choose the best essay title.  

Struggling with getting started with your essay? Check out this helpful guide on how to write an essay !

2. Use your Thesis Statement

There is another reason you should leave your title for an end.  An effective title provides a reason for the readers to read your essay. The best part to find a reason is in the thesis statement in the introduction of your essay. 

You can always get a title from a thesis statement or by using a part of that argument in the title. 

3. Popular Phrases

Catchphrases and cliches that go with the theme of your essay can be used as the titles as well. When popular phrases are appropriate and interesting, they make effective puns. 

Play with the cliches and twist them to create something of your own. Be creative and innovative for your titles as much as you can. 

4. Consider the Tone

Another trick to creating an effective title for your essay is to consider the essay’s tone and come up with something related to it. 

If the tone and subject of your essay are serious and sad, never make the mistake of addressing your title in an informal and fun way.  

Do not try to go off the wall in such cases. The tone of your essay and the title have a strong connection to a good essay. 

5. Use a Central Idea or a Quote 

It is not mandatory but an easy way to create a title that uses a central idea. You can use a quote as the title of your essay topic. 

If the purpose is served correctly, even song lyrics work the best sometimes. 

6. Summary in Three Words

The most common and basic technique is to get a title from the summary of your essay. 

A writer can summarize the entire essay or the central idea and thesis statement in three words and write a title. 

This can be a title by putting it in a headline, inserting a colon, and stating the purpose of your essay. 

7. Movie Titles in an Essay 

A movie title can also be used as a title in an essay.

There are some basic ways to do that. A writer can highlight the title, use a capital letter for the first letter of the movie title, and italicize its font. 

Another technique is by creating a sentence structure and using a movie title in it. You can use quotation marks as well as the underlining tool. However, title the essay according to the field of study and don’t make it irrelevant. 

Mistakes to Avoid While Giving a Title to Your Essay

Here are some tips to keep in mind when crafting effective essay titles to avoid common mistakes:

• Positive themes

Avoid writing about sensitive, unethical, or immoral topics, such as drugs, prostitution, or murder.

• Personal information

Your personal negative experiences should not be included in your essay. However, you can still include lessons learned from those experiences in a professional manner.

• Relevant Questions

Make sure to ask questions that are relevant to your field of study to ensure you choose an appropriate topic.

• Professional tone

Keep your essay professional and avoid including personal information or experiences that are not relevant. Your readers are not interested in your personal life.

• Understanding requirements

It's important to understand your professor's requirements to avoid choosing the wrong topic and wasting time and effort.

• Neutral perspective

Avoid taking an offensive approach in your essay and steer clear of controversial topics such as religion, abortion, and politics.

How to Title an Essay in Different Formats?

All academic essays require a format through which the writer shapes his document. This format varies from academic level to level and institution as well. The format styles include MLA, APA, Chicago, and Harvard. 

MLA, APA, and Chicago are the most common formats that are usually used. If you are writing an essay choosing a specific format, all of the parts should be drafted accordingly. 

From titling an essay to drawing a conclusion, the writer must follow the format properly to create a strong essay. 

How to Title an Essay in MLA Format?

No matter which essay format you are using to shape your argumentative essay, descriptive essay, etc. The qualities of the title and components remain the same.

Although the formatting of the title may differ. For an MLA style , format your essay title in the following pattern:

• On the cover page of your essay, using double spacing, write your name in the upper left corner
• Along with your name, present your instructor’s name, the course title, and the date. 
• Double-space a line and using centered alignment, provide the essay title in font size 12 pt. 
• Do not bold or italicize the title.
• Capitalize important words only and not the articles in the title. 

How to Format an Essay in APA Format?

If you are writing an essay in APA style, you might be wondering how to title an essay in apa format. 

Simply use the following guidelines to format your title and make your writing process easy: 

• Type the title in upper and lowercase letters
• Use centered alignment on the upper half of the page and write the title
• The title in APA style should not exceed more than 12 words
• Avoid using abbreviations and irrelevant words 
• The title should be presented in a line or two and not more than that
• Use double spacing between the lines 
• Beneath the title, write your name and the institutional affiliation.

How to Title an Essay Chicago Style 

To create an appropriate final version of the title for your essay in Chicago style, you should follow certain guidelines.

• Use a heading level 2 (H2) for your title
• Center the title on the page and use title case capitalization
• Keep the title informative and concise, aiming for no more than 12-15 words
• Consider including relevant keywords to make your essay easier to find
• Avoid using slang or informal language in your title
• Use proper grammar and punctuation

How to Choose a Good Title for an Essay 

Choosing a good title for an essay is crucial as it sets the tone and theme for the reader. 

Here are some important qualities to consider when selecting a title:

• Informative: A good title should give the reader an idea of what the essay is about. It should be concise and clearly convey the main topic or argument of the essay.
• Catchy and Memorable: A title that is catchy and memorable can grab the reader's attention and make them more likely to read the essay. Consider using wordplay, puns, or alliteration to make your title stand out.
• Unique: A title that is unique and original can make your essay stand out from others. Avoid using generic or cliché titles that have been overused.
• Accurate: A title should accurately reflect the content of the essay. Avoid using sensational or misleading titles that do not accurately convey the main point or argument of the essay.
• Relevant: A title should be relevant to the current times or issues. Especially in subjects like current events, social or political issues, and scientific research.
• Reflective of Tone: The title should also reflect the tone of the essay. If the essay is humorous, the title should be as well. If the essay is serious or academic, the title should reflect that.

Essay Title Examples

Just like the tone of every essay differs, the title also differs from each type of essay. For example, movie titles can only be used for informal writing and narrative essays. 

Some examples of essay titles are provided below.

Here are some more examples of essay titles.

Tips to Draft an Essay Title

Titles for Different Types of Essay

How To Title An Essay About A Book

Bad vs Good Essay Title Examples - H3

Tips for Crafting an Outstanding Title 

Here are some tips for crafting an outstanding title:

• Brainstorm: Begin by brainstorming a list of potential titles for your essay or paper. Write down as many ideas as you can think of, even if they seem silly or irrelevant at first.
• Be Specific: A good title should be specific and accurate. It should give the reader an idea of what the essay is about. Avoid vague or general titles that don't provide any useful information.
• Use Keywords: Including keywords in your title can make it easier for readers to find your work in searches. Consider what words or phrases a person might use to search for your topic and incorporate them into your title.
• Be Creative: A creative and unique title can make your work stand out from others. Consider using wordplay, puns, alliteration, or metaphors to create a memorable and attention-grabbing title.
• Keep It Short and Sweet: While a title should be specific and informative, it should also be concise. Try to keep your title under 10-12 words, as longer titles can be difficult to read and remember.

For more tips, you can check out this video:

The success of your overall essay is not just based on how well you presented the argument and conducted research to gather the information. A title plays a vital role as well. 

Creative titles are like the icing on the cake. Nobody will want to read it when it will not appeal to them. 

Make your college essay and paper flawless, as they are the only thing that will get you scores in academics. So, you have to know what mistakes to avoid and what to do when title the essay.   

However, you can ask professionals at our best essay service to write your essays perfectly and with the best quality.

Place your " write my college essay for me " request today to get your essays and research papers written by professionals and get writing services at exciting prices. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to use a question or a statement as my essay title.

Whether to use a question or a statement as your essay title depends on the content and purpose of your essay.

Using a question can be effective if your essay is exploratory and seeks to answer a specific question. On the other hand, using a statement can be more appropriate if your essay has a clear argument or thesis statement.

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Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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How to write a movie title in an essay.

When writing an essay, including the title of a movie requires proper formatting. Here are guidelines for incorporating a movie title into an essay:

Italicize the Title: Italicize the title of the movie to indicate that it is a work of art. For example: The Shawshank Redemption .

Use Title Case: Capitalize the principal words in the movie title. Articles (a, an, the), conjunctions, and prepositions are typically not capitalized unless they are the first or last word of the title.

Punctuation: Use the appropriate punctuation. If the movie title ends with a punctuation mark, such as an exclamation point or question mark, include it within the italics.

Quotation Marks (Alternative): If you are writing in a style that does not allow italics, such as certain academic styles or platforms, you can use quotation marks around the movie title instead. For example: "The Shawshank Redemption".

Include in Sentence Structure: Incorporate the movie title into the sentence structure as needed. For instance, if you are discussing the plot or analyzing the film, weave the title seamlessly into your sentences.

Inception is a mind-bending exploration of dreams within dreams.

The characters in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring embark on an epic quest.