Dale S [335 words….- content is fine…..sentences a bit long, and at times
ending on a weak note]
This movie depicts a significant incident in the history of the United States that is often
overshadowed, and rightfully so, by other things that occurred during this time period. This era is often
remembered for the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, as well as the
war on communism; what is often forgotten is the purging of the communist ideology that took place
within the U.S. by its citizens. People turned on their once friendly neighbors for believing in different
ideologies. The right to one’s own beliefs is heralded as American, and was ignored thanks to plenty of
U.S. government propaganda. I feel this film wonderfully depicted Herbert Biberman’s struggle with this.
A common misconception about communism that the government instilled in the minds of
Americans was, communists are against freedom, and are therefore anti-American. Through Herbert
Biberman, this film did an excellent job of portraying the struggles of communists in Hollywood during
this time period. I enjoyed hearing him quote Thomas Jefferson, especially as someone in the crowd
proclaimed he was quoting Karl Marx, because it helped to bring clarity to the misconceptions that
communists were anti-American by showing he appreciated the history of the United States.[weak
ending..change order] I was also impressed with the way Biberman was shown handling situations very
calmly throughout the movie, except for the one scene in which he was screaming for his actor, because it
gave a sense of class and poise to him; and with that poise, he was able to accomplish his goal of filming
“Salt of the Earth.” (Which I am now very excited to see later in this course)[too much in one sentence]
Also surprising in this movie was the amount of influence the government has over the typical
U.S. citizen. This is not something I would have ever thought about, and frightens me. If the government
was that powerful in 1940’s, I fear to think how this situation might have been different had it occurred
during the 21st century.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++
Michael M [309 words 3+ very nice in both content and writing]
An interesting film, One of the Hollywood Ten, portrays the treatment and subsequent reactions of
members of the American Communist party shortly after World War II. In the late 1940’s and throughout
the 1950’s, there was a series of government-led “witch hunts” to root out communists from every facet
of American life. This quickly turned into mass hysteria and neighbors and friends denounced each other
to the government, often for personal gain. It is clear in the film that the U.S. government is the primary
antagonist, spear-headed by FBI agent Rifkin and the House Committee of Un-American Activities. This
agent acts as the arm of the federal government and serves to personify the actions taken during this time
period which include harassment, illegal “bugs” inside American homes, and the suppression of first as
well as fourteenth amendment rights. The result of being a communist in America during the 1950’s was,
as is seen in the film, blacklisting and possible prison sentences. It’s actually quite ironic that the House
Committee of [ON] Un-American Activities was the source of such un-American methods. The film is
very moving and effective at illustrating the injustices of the U.S. government during a time of hysteria,
largely fueled by irrational prejudices.
1
As the film progressed, I found that this was not so much a “government-bashing” or procommunist message, but rather a patriotic one, defending the freedoms of individual Americans. The
freedom to participate in a political activity and express one’s constitutional rights without being harassed
by the government is being defended, not a particular party itself. The film’s negative portrayal of the
federal government is an effective tool to facilitate the position of an oppressed group, namely American
communists. This is not the way I learned about the Red Scare in high school, but I think it is interesting
to see things from another perspective.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Devina K [275 words 2--some minor grammar items and some awkward
writing as noted, content fine]
It was interesting to see the United States post World War II from a Hollywood perspective. Even
today[comma] movies, actors, writers and directors have an influence on society because they can target a
very large audience. In the US we like to believe that freedom of speech is practiced and protected under
the constitution. “One of the Hollywood Ten” showed how gray the interpretation of the constitution can
be [comma] but also how the government and society sometimes thinks and acts in extremes.
The movie showed me that members of Hollywood had taken a stance against fascism and the
atrocities of World War II which also [this is unclear, or at least awkward] attacked the US and allies for
not taking action or acting soon enough. It was frightening to see how scared people were of communism
which was believed to be the opposite of democracy and as threatening as the NAZI and Hitler ideals.
The movie points out that many people and the government believed if a person spoke out against the
government and the NAZI party, they were a communist or stood by the Soviet Union, America’s enemy
at the time. The government and the public were only thinking in extremes, as portrayed by the
movie.[weak part of the sentence at the end…put it first] At one point, Gail is asked whether the
Hollywood Anti NAZI organization she belonged to was a front for the Communist party. [abrupt from
previous sentence]The treatment of people who spoke out against the government can be compared to the
Stasi, the Soviet police, who attacked East Germans who spoke up against the Soviet government before
German reunification.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Alisa P [299 words
3+ a couple of minor items as noted; otherwise a very
nice job both in writing and your own commentary]
I never think of major Hollywood productions having a real effect on a persons[possessive, i.e., needs an
apostrophe] morals or political standing. This made it surprising to see how adamant the government
was to label big Hollywood names such as Herbert Biberman as Communists. Of course Hollywood
conformed to the government’s wishes and blacklisted those convicted, preventing them from getting any
other work. It seems at a time when growing panic of a cold war existed the government would concern
itself with its own fight against communism, such as the Crusade for Freedom, and not the film industry.
2
Though throughout the movie I thought the FBI was being excessive in sending the alleged communists
to jail[comma]it was nothing compared to their actions in New Mexico. Attempting to steal negatives,
having Rosaura deported, and locals setting fire to sets all seemed extreme. The lengths to which the
people would go to stop the film became glaringly clear when they were being shot at; Herbert stating that
it was just a film and nobody’s life was worth its completion.
It was refreshing to see how Herbert wanted to use the film medium as a way to encompass American
society and portray real events. I liked that he continued his work despite the blacklisting [comma] and
kept true to his beliefs. Despite a constant voice in Gales ear telling her to leave her husband and
denounce his views, she stayed beside him and I admire that. Though no one in Hollywood wanted to be
associated with the film aside from Will Geer, I believe the locals added an element to the movie that no
actor could. Without the drive to have the story of the strikes against the Empire Zinc Company told, it is
my guess anyone else would have walked away.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Erica A [3++ a very nice, thoughtful discussion, with equally good writing]
The film first establishes an unnerving nature when the audience sees a film clip from Nazi
Germany depicting mass graves with large tractors dumping hundreds of bodies into them. A clear sense
of fear is established within the characters of the film as well as with the audience viewing the film. This
is continually built upon as the film progresses. The idea of fear and paranoia overtaking society during
times of distress and turmoil - in this case during the Cold War when fear of communism and fascism is
running rampant - becomes the foundation of the film. [excellent intro]
After this establishment of fear, we watch this anxiety and panic overtake the ‘normal’ societal
groups, and that fear is projected onto minority groups. In this instance we see Herbert Biberman, a
Jewish man, and ten [nine] of his Hollywood colleagues come under attack. Biberman is initially
targeted because of his ethnic background and then again because he has identified himself with the
Communist Party of America. He is stripped of his job and essentially blacklisted from Hollywood,
leaving him unable to obtain a job and a leper to society simply because he has identified himself as a
member
Biberman is simply a man who stands by his beliefs and is unwilling to give that [them] up– he has not
been involved in any illegal activity in regards to the party. He faces outrageous fear with upstanding
courage. He serves his unfounded prison sentence fully, and then continues on to develop an independent
film as Hollywood keeps it’s [no apostrophe, common mistake] back staunchly turned. He continues to
face this inescapable fear throughout the duration of the filming of Salt of the Earth, but ends up fighting
against these issues and finishing the film. Biberman takes a bad situation and turns it into a statement on
society. He brings these issues to light, while facing immense pressure. In the end, a dividing line
amongst society is drawn at the issues of Race, Class, and Religion, all caused by one thing – fear.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
3
Amanuel T [319 words 3+ save for the paragraph issue, the writing is
excellent as is the commentary]
I found One of The Hollywood Ten to be a perceptive film about the Cold War
paranoia within the U.S. workforce. Towards the beginning of the film I took note of
Ronald Reagan’s “Join Crusades for Freedom” pledge. Along with a few other
opening images, the viewers are immediately immersed in the anti‐communist
sentiment that ran rampant in the U.S. during the Cold War. When speaking with his
peers, Herbert Biberman denounces Hollywood’s content curtailments and
proclaims his desire to make films with freedom and integrity. I found this
particularly interesting because when criticizing communism, the U.S. government
often lauded the freedom that capitalism provides. [new paragraph] Another reoccurring theme of
the film was betrayal, first occurring when Herbert and nine others were accused of
betraying the U.S. government with their purported communist ideology.
Communist paranoia was also displayed in the film when the FBI assisted Herbert’s
co‐worker to ultimately blacklist Herbert from Hollywood. . [new paragraph] Discrimination within
the U.S. labor force during that epoch are [is] introduced when Herbert makes the film
“Salt of the Earth” to delineate the Mexican‐American miner’s strike against the
Empire Zinc Company. After ingratiating himself with the Mexican workers,
Herbert’s integrity is manifested when he chooses an all‐Mexican cast for his film.
Upon discovering that Herbert is banned from making Hollywood films due to his
“communist agenda”, the locals set fire to the film sets and victimize the Mexican
actors. I believe these attempts to seize Herbert’s film blurred the line between film
and reality, as the prejudices that Herbert attempted to capture through film were
happening before his eyes. . [new paragraph] After being extradited, the actress that played Esmeralda
filmed her remaining scenes in Mexico and proved that her deportation was a futile
attempt to hinder the film’s completion. In summation, both Herbert and the
4
Mexican workers prevailed in the face of discriminatory impediments and brought
their film to fruition.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Paul K [320 words 0 this doesn’t begin to be acceptable writing…….way
too many errors….omissions…..you need to do a lot of proof reading
The movie the, “ One of the Hollywood Ten” is the story based in the 1950’s about the film
industry conspiracy in Hollywood. In particular the director and writer Herbert Biberman. [not a
sentence, and missing the word “about’]The movie is a great way to kick off Labor Wars. It deals with
the many issues [that]will be discuss through out [one word]the quarter. The film address issues about the
government, race, discrimination, and religion.
The film begins with stating an interest [ing] fact by saying Adolf Hitler[‘s] favorite film is “
Triumph of the Will”, [comma before the quote which is a propaganda movie for the Nazi party. This is
why the United States was so scared of Hollywood having communist director’s because
potential[aly]they could use movies to push the United States towards communism. In addition
[comma]at the time it seem [ed] like the right thing to do to push directors out of their jobs, but did they
have the right? One of the main themes in the movie deals with the government have [ing] the capability
to regulate movies or should a director or writer be able to make any film they wish. Thus
[comma]through out [one word] the movie Herbert fights for his freedom to make any film he wishes to
make without government interaction. Also, it was interesting in the film that the Hollywood Ten never
admit to being part of the communist party. The only people saying they are communist are the
government and the only reason people think they are communist is because of the government.
Throughout the film, the viewer wants to know whether they are communist are [or]not, but it shouldn't
matter. Society does not have been to [???}defined by the political party as a way as [of] defining a
person. Lastly, they should be able to be look [ed]upon like everyone else and still be able to have their
freedom of speech.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++
Roshni B [320 words 3+ short of commas, but otherwise, solid writing, and
a very thoughtful discussion]
One of the Hollywood Ten takes place in the 1950s [comma] and focuses on Hollywood elite who have
been identified as members of the American Communist Party. The film opens with actress Gale
Sondergaard’s Oscar acceptance speech during the peak of her career. Shortly after, she and her husband
5
[comma]screenwriter/director Herbert Bieberman are blacklisted after their affiliation with the American
Communist Party is brought to light. The film chronicles Bieberman and Sondergaard’s struggle to save
their dying careers at the hand of government officials during the spread of the Red Scare as Bieberman
attempts to film Salt of the Earth in New Mexico. [a bit too much in one sentence]
The film highlighted the irony of the actions of a fragile United States government during a time of war
and political tension. The Hollywood Ten were among American citizens who were stripped of their right
to free speech if they demonstrated even the slightest support of Communism during the 1950s. The FBI
went to great lengths to collect evidence against party members to jail and silence them. The scenes that
impacted me most involved the filming of Salt of the Earth. The FBI tracked down Rosaura Revueltas
[comma] and had her deported to prevent Bieberman from completing the film, and they rallied locals to
set fire to many sets in an attempt to destroy film negatives. It is quite ironic that Revueltas was deported
[comma]but Anti-Communists claimed they did not support the film because they did not want to be seen
as racists. The disturbance of peace caused by the government was more a crime than the performance
Revueltas delivered in her role as Esperanza Quintero in the film.
The rights granted to Americans in the US Constitution are the very reason many immigrants travel to this
country. Although we may not approve of the views and beliefs of some political groups, their written and
spoken words are no crime.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Daryl C [318 words 3+ a few minor items as noted; otherwise, writing is fine
with very thoughtful commentary]
The film [comma]One of the Hollywood Ten illustrated an inspiring story about a Jewish director and
screenwriter, Herbert Biberman, who pursued filming Salt of the Earth, despite opposition from the US
government. [a bit too much in one sentence]Even though he was blacklisted for his association with the
American Communist Party, he went against all odds to complete his movie on real people and their
struggles.
The fear of communism led to the banishment of Biberman and other Hollywood directors from the
industry. The US government intervened to prevent the spread of communist ideals. By doing so, the
supporters of communism were denied their freedom of speech, which clearly was promised by the
Constitution. The justification was that “commies” were enemies of America and therefore, denied such
rights. The government took on the position as the protector of the public, but in reality, it quelled the
minorities that did not hold the American ideals to heart. In a sense, there is no true freedom, since the
government censors and ultimately decides what the public sees.
After watching the film, I question the origin of our fear of communism. Is this fear created just to unify
Americans as propaganda for war? Or is it fear of a potential force against capitalism that communist
supporters are vilified? In any case, I see capitalism and communism as beliefs, much like religions. From
6
that perspective, I do not understand how these ideologies can be compared so easily, since they are on
the opposite ends of the spectrum. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. It cannot be easily said as to
which is superior to the other. Yet, communism is labeled “bad”, “evil”, [commas always come before
the quote in the US, but not in England] or “inferior[comma]” and its supporters are enemies of
America. It certainly does not seem as clear-cut as how our government portrays capitalism and
communism to the public.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Scott W [304 words 3++ excellent; solid, concise writing with a clear and apt
discussion]
The film, One of the Hollywood Ten, portrays a time in US history known as the McCarthy era (lasting
approximately through the 1940s and 1950s) in which the fear of Communism consumed much of
society. The film tells the story of notable Hollywood figures who were “blacklisted” for belonging to the
Communist Party of America. The story focuses on Herbert Biberman, a famous Hollywood director, and
his wife, Oscar-winning actress Gale Sondergaard. The couple and their family were tracked by the FBI
following allegations that they were members of the Communist Party. Biberman was brought before
Congress for a hearing and, holding steadfast in his convictions, argued that as an American, he had a
right to his beliefs. Further, he refused to give up names of fellow members. He was convicted and
sentenced to six months in prison. Although Biberman was later released, both he and his wife remained
unemployed, as no studio in Hollywood would hire them. [very nice, broad intro]
Biberman and Sondergaard used their experience as an opportunity to “bring [the struggles of others] to
the big screen,” in an independent movie called Salt of the Earth. The movie tells the story of a real-life
strike between a mining company and its employees (and their wives). Not surprisingly, the FBI
attempted to put an end to the production of the movie and to seize the tapes. What resulted was the
police protecting Biberman and his crew “under the laws of the State of New Mexico.” One of the
Hollywood Ten illustrates the similar struggles of two groups of people (Hollywood figures and miners in
New Mexico) while showing how one man was able to find his voice in the face of severe opposition.
The movie highlights the fear that consumed society during that time and how people dealt with that fear.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Eric R [304 words 3++++ this is really superb in every respect; very fine
writing, with an extremely fine thoughtful, broad and apt discussion]
Francis’ “One of the Hollywood Ten” chronicles the daring project taken on by Herbert Biberman after
his release from prison, while blacklisted from Hollywood. The dialogue in the film touches on the
psychology of the other side, and paints an artistic community full of backstabbing and in denial. With
talk of Hollywood possessing “the hearts and minds of the nation,” the threat from commies in showbiz is
high, at least in the minds of the accusers. After Humphrey Bogart shows some much needed support for
the accused, the international star is pressured to recant by the industry and the public, claiming his
protest was “ill advised.” Meanwhile, friends of the Hollywood Ten claim, “The motion picture industry
7
would never be party to a blacklist.” The rampant sheepishness highlights the strength of Herbert
Biberman, one of the Ten. [excellent intro……very fine writing]
Jeff Goldblum portrays Biberman as confident and doggedly focused.[great sentence]When imprisoned
after refusing to testify in front of Congress, Biberman is shown remaining positive, seeking out new
causes to which he can contribute. However, Biberman is also shown to be shortsighted and even
foolhardy at times. The balance between perseverance and stubbornness can be a difficult one. It is, at
times, a position in which Biberman is shown to falter. When Herbert sees his wife, Gale, test reading
with a potential male lead, he decides the film needs a Mexican leading actress so it will be more
“authentic.” Gale’s reading, given the parallels between her life as the blacklisted wife of a suspected
Communist, and Esmerelda’s life as the strong wife of the strike leader, is full of real emotion that she
lets bleed into her performance. His search for supposed authenticity prevents a talented actress from
drawing from her honest emotions, while contributing to the effort to keep her out of theaters.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Clarissa Z [339 words 2+ content fine, but lots of little items, missing words,
etc.]
The movie [comma]One of the Hollywood Ten [comma]focused on the story of the American
screenwriter and film director [comma]Herber Biberman [comma]in the context of the second Red
Scare era. The film chronicled the man’s blacklisting due to his association with American Communism
Party, his imprison [ment], and his making of Salt of the Earth. The displaying of how the U.S.
government tried to limit civilian’s [no apostrophe or s]freedom of speech in this film was jaw-dropping.
What I found most amazing was how the film demonstrated different types of the fear, and how those
fears had contributed to, and spurred the process of creating massive paranoia. The fear of Biberman, his
wife, and other blacklisted Hollowood members might be obvious. The more astonishing part was how
those fears self-reinforced, spread out, and eventually shaped and modified the behaviors of all
participants in the community.
In addition, the government agencies also had fear because they worried different political groups—in
this case, Communism [COMMUNIST]Party, might raise enough influences to challenge its ruling
power. Ironically, this reminded [me of]the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution that took place in
People Republic of China two decades after. The movement in China, on the contrary, was dedicated to
enforce the socialism in the country and remove the capitalist elements in the society. In both cases, the
governments were scared and responded to such fear with [by] triggering massive paranoia in the society.
They even used similar methods including creating blacklists, requesting suspects for testimonies and
accusations of others, putting people into jail, and restricting [the] media. It turned out that the form of the
government structure might not be a determining factor for such behaviors. I suppose the question we
really need to answer is if such behaviors are abandoned in this country completely. Was what happened
in this film just a mistake the government had made in the past [comma]or would it happen again? Like
what Biberman said in the film: “Hitler is dead, but Fascism” might be “not be”. [period inside the quote
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
8
Dylan M [328 words 3++ excellent in all respects; solid and straightforward
writing, with a thoughtful and broad commentary]
One of the Hollywood Ten illustrates the struggle of prominent Hollywood figures that [who]were
accused of being associated with the American Communist Party during the red scare of the late 1950s. In
the beginning of the film, Successful director Herbert Bieberman and his rising star wife, Gale
Sondergaard, appear to have promising careers until Bieberman becomes blacklisted due to allegations
from the FBI. This is when problems begin to unravel one after another [comma] as this not only affects
his career, but also his wife’s and those of his friends.
I found it ironic that Bieberman’s stringent constitutional values are what caused many of his problems
throughout the film. For example, he refuses to comply with [the] government by signing an oath or
ratting out his peers. He believes that by pressing him to do this, the government is jeopardizing his
freedom of speech. Bieberman is a prideful character that identifies himself as a democrat and appears to
have strong values. . I found his resistance to the federal government to come from his stubborn nature,
which the character attributes to his religion, rather than a devotion to the political beliefs he is accused of
having.
While this film captures the hardships endured by those who were accused of being associated with the
Communist Party, it also illustrates another completely different story of struggle in the United States;
that of the impoverished Mexican-American miners on strike in New Mexico. After being incarcerated
and out of work for years, Bieberman takes on a project making a film about these struggles. There was a
clear connection between the Bieberman and the actors who both felt that they were being oppressed by
the government.
Having very little knowledge about the red scare era prior to watching this film, I cannot testify to its
historical accuracy, however I found it to be a good movie with a powerful message about how the
government may not always serve in the interest of its citizens.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Connor H [342 words 3++ very fine in every respect: very solid writing,
with an excellent broad and interesting commentary]
Within the first ten minutes of watching One of the Hollywood Ten, I had already decided what kind of
commentary I would write. There seemed to be no shortage of one dimensional characters, bad acting
and worse dialogue. By the time Gale Sondergaard told her daughter that “Daddy hasn’t done anything
wrong, just told the truth”, [comma inside quote in the US]I had all but given up on the film. My feelings
on the film began to change once it took its audience to the zinc mines of southern New Mexico. It was in
these scenes that the great irony threaded throughout the film began to dawn on me. [very nice intro!]
Perhaps the most striking irony is that the format of the film mirrors the political context it
examines. By making all the characters one-dimensional, the director ends up portraying a classic good
vs. evil story. Biberman is shown as a heroic crusader in every scene, while his nemesis Riffkin is
accompanied with frightening music [comma]more suited for Darth Vader than for an FBI agent. This
9
oversimplified presentation of good vs. evil is precisely the tactic that the US government used to get the
public to turn on the real Hollywood Ten. In this sense, the film serves as a sort of “anti-propaganda”, as
it uses the technique of villianization to criticize villianization [is this a word??!! I bet not ]itself.
The second fascinating irony is that One of the Hollywood Ten is a political film about another
political film. In this way, it comments on the medium of political filmmaking in fascinating ways.
During the scenes where Biberman is filming Salt of the Earth, we see that political filmmaking requires a
complicated balance. When Biberman was struggling between choosing people who could act and people
who were involved in the mine, I found it fascinating that there could be a conflict between delivering a
message and keeping the film authentic. I look forward to watching Salt of the Earth, so I can see how
well he actually achieved this balance.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Justin D [310 words 3- content fine, but too many little items as
noted…carless??]
One of the Hollywood Ten takes place During the red scare of the 1950'[missing s] when many citizens of
the United States were accused of communist activities. Having done nothing illegal [comma]these
people were often blacklisted and even sent to prison. None were more famously prosecuted than
Hollywood directors and actors. The movie focuses on the lives of Herbert Biberman and his wife
[comma]Gale Sondergaard who had very successful careers in Hollywood and were members of the
anti-nazi league.
A list was formed by the FBI of the people accused of communist activities. These people find that no
producers will hire them despite their talent and fame. Eventually they are given subpoenas and some are
convicted of contempt of court and sentenced to jail. Unable to leave the country Biberman directs a film
independently of the Hollywood elite about the strike of zinc mine workers in New Mexico. In a time
when all films were either comedies, actions or dramas [comma] Biberman's film about workers
[apostrophe missing] rights was very controversial. The film was eventually finished despite much
opposition from federal agents. It was considered a communist film and was banned in many parts
[???]of the US.
While being accused of communist activities [comma]Biberman claims that he does not support
communism [comma]but rather supports democracy and freedom of expression. Biberman is prosecuted
for his communist activities despite the fact that being a communist and supporting a communist
government is not illegal. The constitution protects a persons [apostrophe] right to be communist just as
it protects the mine workers [ditto] rights to protest working conditions and go on strike. [new par]What I
find most frightening about this film is that it is an example of something that has not happened only
once. Fear of Japanese Americans caused the interment of thousands of citizens [comma] and today the
fear of terrorism seems eerily similar.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
10
Jon B [197 words 3+ a bit too brief, but very fine in all respects: writing is
fine, and commentary excellent if a bit overly succinct]
While watching the film[comma] One of the Hollywood Ten [comma]I was filled with feelings of anger
and sadness. Anger in response to the injustices faced by some Americans during the period following
the second world war, and sadness at the thought that, regardless of how free and equitable our society
seems, it might well be that we will never escape the basic human prejudices that are catalyzed by periods
of fear and turmoil. [very nice personal intro]
Also, I found it sardonically amusing that the Screen Writers Guild, which was presumably started to
champion the rights of its members, was used as a tool of the government (FBI) to oppress and coerce its
members. This gives rise to an interesting notion of the fragility of the tenets of such institutions in the
name of self-preservation. The irony, however, is that although the Guild sought to preserve itself in the
face of the government threat, it in fact did not preserve its original purpose, and became instead a
corrupted oppressor of freedom.
My negative feelings were tempered, however, by the perseverance of Herbert Biberman, and his ability
to complete his film despite the many obstacles placed before him.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Janet L [321 words 1—there are way too many problems here; lots of work
needed regarding clarity, proof reading, etc.]
The film [comma] “One of the Hollywood Ten[comma]” was an extremely eye opening piece which
gave the audience an inside look on the inevitable turmoil resulting from mixing politics with the arts. As
the movie progressed, there became a very clear depiction of the chaos and emotional rollercoaster that
resulted from Cold War paranoia. It was interesting to see how the FBI did everything in their power to
shun those labeled as “commies”. [comma inside quote always in the US ]I felt almost disgusted to see
how various characters were treated [comma] even when they all shared a unified goal of succeeding in
America. I also thought that the film did a great job showing of not only showing how historical wars
create wars even amongst friends and family, but also how these characters were able to shed some light
despite their life threatening situations. [new paragraph] My favorite scene of the movie had to be when
Biberman and his reunited crew traveled to New Mexico to direct a screenplay about the 1950-51 strike
wage[ed] by Mexican miners against the Empire Zinc Company. The scene where Biberman tries to
convince the Mexican-American miners [of what?]and their wives exemplifies the unification of two
different worlds who are both in a sense blacklisted from society. I loved seeing the passion that these
Mexican Americans showed for their strive [totally unclear] towards a voice and equality. It was great
seeing Biberman completely immerse himself into his work because of this passion alone. What was
especially great was when Biberman, wanting to keep the screenplay as authentic as possible, rejected to
[odd grammer]cast the role of Esperanza Quintero to his own wife.[sentence need a lot of work!!!] It
was interesting seeing all of the arising and constant issues during the development of the screenplay and
how everyone needed to work together to overcome that. Everyone worked together with the common
goal of freedom in mind.
11
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Christina P [346 words 3- a few minor issues as noted, but otherwise fine
in both content and writing]
One of the Hollywood Ten is a film made in the year 2000 by British and Spanish producers. The
film tells the story of a director, Herbert Biberman and his wife Gale Sondregaard who lived in a time
when the American government was blacklisting people in the movie business that [I like “who” more
than “that”] were known members of the Communist Party. Herbert takes the only work he can find and
directs a movie called Salt of the Earth, about migrant workers at a coalmine, filmed in New Mexico.
Herbert decides to go as authentic as possible and to hire the actual workers who were struggling
everyday with their employers.[actually,, he had little choice here]
This movie perfectly portrays the ability that the government has to influence the thoughts of the
country in a negative way. The US government decided that members of the Communist party could not
have access to the media. Americans, who are often very quick to villainize [is this a word?] people,
stood strong with their government [comma]even though their rights of free speech were being attacked.
Although the political bias and the blacklist were a horribly un-American and unconstitutional way of
censoring the theatres, directors, actors and producers, Herbert, Gale and the other people working wit h
them on Salt of the Earth all learned another facet of the movie making business that they never would
have understood had they not been blacklisted. [a long sentence, but ok…better broken up]They learned
that sometimes the best way to make something realistic is to use the actual people and the actual sets,
even if it isn’t always the easiest way.
I found it really interesting that the movie, although made in 2000, is still not sold in the US. It is hard to
tell if it is a coincidence, there are not a lot of foreign movies that are sold here because the demand for
them is not high, or if the government does not want it to be sold because it shows them in a bad light. [I
bet it’s the latter!]
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Daniel N [312 words 3- the content is excellent, very thoughtful and apt
discussion. Most of the writing is very good as well, save for a couple of odd
items as noted]
The film [comma] “One of the Hollywood Ten[comma]” sadly depicts the unjust persecution of actors
who were suspected of being communist during the red scare in the 1950’s. In particular, it shows the
struggles of director Herbert Biberman and his wife Gale Sondergaard, a popular actress. Although the
smear campaign waged against Mr. Biberman and Ms. Sondergaard was a disgraceful episode by our U.S.
government, the film quietly depicted the prevalent racism and discrimination in the American society in
numerous scenes. [very nice, concise intro]
The film’s portrayal of an early-1940’s Academy Awards showed an audience that was composed entirely
of white individuals – directors, producers, and their ‘stars.’ No minorities were present in the audience,
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illustrating the racial elitism that plagued the country. Additionally, only one African-American was
involved in the production set of a Hollywood movie. Later in the film, Ms. Sondergaard was cast for a
lead role playing a Hispanic woman. Although the role was eventually cast to a Hispanic woman, this
distrust of non-white with a lead role prior action [something missing here??] bleeds racial
discrimination. This is reminiscent to [“of” is better] ancient Greek theaters where women were not
allowed to act, and were rather played be men. When the U.S. government heard of an independent
movie being produced by Mr. Biberman, they told the media that the intent of the movie was to create
racial divide in America. Whether that statement is ironic or hypocritical, the U.S. government was
partially responsible for racism in America.
It is terrible that these stars were blacklisted from Hollywood movies, but one must consider that some
citizens of the United States were rejected [“refused” a better word here] the right to vote, attend
schools, and other constitutional rights – all because of their ethnicity. The plight of these actors paled in
comparison to the treatment that minorities suffered during the mid-20th century.
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Zulema R [330 words 2- content generally ok, but way too many writing
issues as noted]
The Red Scare brought many uncertainly and unrest to the Americans right after the war with Hitler. But
the allegations against innocent and members of the American Communist Party were trigger[ed] by pure
fear similar to the Salem Witch Trials. In the film One of the Hollywood Ten actors, directors and writers
were pointed out to the HUAC. The Hollywood blacklist consisted of no true evidence and avoided the
very influential. The interest of the movie industry was put before the safety of the recuperating post-war
nation. The FBI wanted names, no matter whom. The just wanted to satisfy the citizens beliefs of internal
espionage, a scapegoat to blame.
After the Hollywood Ten refused to admit or deny their affiliation with the American Communist Party.
[first half of the sentence]They were sent to jail and expelled from the Writers Guild. But isn’t the Guild
[possessive] job to protect its members likes [like?]real union and not refuse their ability to work. Money
once again was the issue, keeping them [vague]cost them movie revenue.[new par, and abrupt]In
response, Herbert Biberman made an independent film, Salt of the Earth, about the strike of a mining mill
union in New Mexico. Here the union was standing up for its members to get better conditions for the
whole town. They did it for equality and freedom, very much what [was?] the same doctrine of Biberman
followed. It’s evident that during the filming[comma]Biberman saw in practice what he preached and
got incarcerated for.
Freedom of speech and equality were founding principles of the USA and these two situations[vague]
showed the extent in which USA has not fulfilled its written promise. The discrimination to [of]
immigrants and politically different views of individuals are still being prosecuted are “views” being
prosecuted??} but it’s the government [possessive] job to protect all individuals. The Hollywood Ten and
unjust[???] labor unions had to suffer to send the message that there must but a change and acceptance of
all diverse American individuals.
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Melissa A [save for the way too many word, this would be a 3++ 574 words,
for a 300 word assignment, is…..you guess! But, the writing and content are
both absolutely first rate…….now you just have to “listen to the professor”]
Media plays a heavy a role in the convoluted issues surrounding labor wars. Movies in particular, have
the power to endow the viewers with a disillusioned view of reality by ingraining a certain ideology into
the context of a film. [good sentence, but I would reverse the order…end on the main point]] One of the
Hollywood Ten is one of the few films in history that dare to confront the both the reality and idealism
composed by controversial 20th century social, political and economic labor issues. [good intro]
Every element of the film is a paradox in itself; real-life actors portray film actors acting in films
within films, symbolic of a dream within a dream. A colorful reality is contrasted with black-and-white
clips from additional films shot within the main film. Following with the paradoxical nature, this
cinematic technique echoes the convoluted nature of the laborer issues at hand. Films represent a simple
and idealistic black-and-white approach to labor issues while reality as a whole presents a more colorful
approach to addressing such issues plaguing the American labor market.
The opening scene of One of the Hollywood Ten immediately sets a controversial and dramatic
tone for the blacklisted film. Startling images of Nazi Concentration Camps paint the screen, leaving a
chilling image ingrained in the mind. Even more starting is the contradictory comparison of Hitler to the
Jewish protagonist of the film, Herbert Biberman, in terms of the fate of their films. With the opening
scene still haunting the mind, it is easy to accept the fact that Hilter’s movie made the blacklist. Despite
the stark contrast between the ideologies and films directed by Hitler and Biberman, Hitler’s blacklisted
film paradoxically foreshadows a similar fate for Herbert’s passion project, Salt of the Earth.
The harsh reality of political power provides a rude wake-up call to the idealistic views of
Hollywood’s Elite and comes in the form of a power more eminent that the U.S. Constitution. As the FBI
leads a witch-like crusade against the “Hollywood Ten”, [comma before the quote in the US]the viewer
empathizes with the protagonist. The destructive nature of the American Government is portrayed under
harsh lighting, thus inducing a paradox in which the communistic villain Biberman becomes the vigilante.
Although Biberman is blacklisted from Hollywood, he continues to defend the inherent American
constitutional rights of equality, justice, and freedom for all.
Biberman’s internal struggle is manifested through the Salt of the Earth, as he uses the film media
as an outlet to depict the struggle for lower-class miners to gain freedom. A shift of power occurs as
Biberman gains control over the film as the director, placing stringent demands on the cast of real-life
working miners. His quest for integrity leads him to feed into the very system in which he is fighting
against, inevitably leading to the final paradox in which Herbert is now on the other side of the economic
labor struggle. It is only by experiencing first-hand the direct relationship between employer and
employee that Herbert Biberman is able to truly understand a deeper meaning of American freedom;
freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom of film.
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Payum M [580 words, for a 300 word assignment ain’t quite getting it; if it
were within the word limits the grade would be a 2- a nice, but very
repetitive effort to make your point…writing is ok most of the time, but too
many issues as noted…mostly careless in nature]
“One of the Hollywood Ten” is an adequate portrayal of communist subversion in Hollywood during the
1940’s, due to the sub-climactic focuses of red scare hearings, which allowed for the furthering of
personal political motives through the exploitation of social fears. [way too much in one sentence,
which doesn’t hang together] By focusing mainly on the circumstances imposed on Herbert Biberman
and his family, the director and writer, Karl Francis, opens the audiences’ eyes to a glimpse of the
historical and political climate of the time. However, he does so in a biased fashion. Although I commend
Francis for his ability to portray political climates in the film, his use of only one ‘big and bad antagonist,’
Riffkind, whose only purpose in the film was to chase around Herbert, took away from the seriousness of
the film. The film’s focus on social fear from the perspective of Herbert and his cohorts [comma] and not
from the perspective of the government, made the film seem like an endless game of ‘cops and robbers,’
rather than focusing on larger themes such as the denial of citizens rights at the time. [it’s called “artistic”
license…this is a film clearly from a particular perspective…check the title”
The scenes that intrigued me the most were of the red scare hearings, as it[they] focused on the rejection
of the first amendment. During the first hearing were [spelling] Herbert is asked questions regarding his
association to the Communist Party as well as to “name names” of other communist party members, he
chooses [to] withhold information [comma]mainly because he has the right to do so. This in turn angers
the judge and causes an uproar and immediate reprimanding of Herbert, ending the trial immediately and
moving on the next scene. It’s at this point in the film where I begin to take it somewhat less seriously.
Rather than focusing more on the issue of the role of the first amendment during the red scare trials, and
how Communist Party members often manipulated their words to their advantage, Karl Francis only
shows an irate Judge who goes furious over Herbert’s desire to read a personal statement during the trial
and then cuts to the next scene.[alas, most artists wind up taking positions opposed to govt…the other
perspective is often referred to as propaganda] This does indeed add to the one-sidedness of the film, as
it shows a four minute trial in which it was foreshadowed that Herbert was going to go to jail from before
the trial even started. This could have been a proper place in the film to focus on greater historical issues
of citizens [possessive] rights at the time, rather than only touching the tip of the historical iceberg from a
biased perspective of those denied rights. [getting quite repetitive]
Like [“As” slightly better in less that casual writing] I mentioned, this film is an adequate portrayal of
the time. It’s definitely not false in any sense, but Karl Francis’ biased focus of the social pressures during
that time period does sort of misconstrue the historical aspect of the film. By failing to capture the social
pressures properly from both Herbert’s side and the government’s side equally (in terms of legitimate
fears of the Communists and not merely locking up Communists just for being Communists), the film just
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becomes a great game of the ‘good guy’ versus the ‘bad guy,’ rather than a portrayal of how the rights of
party members and how they even prevailed at times.
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