THE STAR SPANGLED GIRL

1. The work of Neil Simon, the stage tradition, the cinema tradition? The appeal of his comedy and the qualities of comedy in terms of character, lines, situations? The original play not being a success?

2. The 1960s and the background of change, social values, protest? The film as critique, satire? The emphasis on dialogue, jokes and criticism?

3. The settings, the American cities of the period? Sets and costumes? The opening song and mood?

4. How attractive a character was Amy? Sandy Duncan’s style? The all-America girl? the reference of the title? Her country background, swimming, political blows, her relationship with Norman and Andy, her work? Norman ruining her work with the paint, duck etc? Being fired from the YWCA? Norman and her warding him off? Falling In love with Andy? Her real character?

5. The portrait of the left wing paper, the boys, their political point of view, lifestyle, protest? How serious was the leftwing overtime?

6. Audience response to Norman, his work on the paper, Friendship with Andy, infatuation with Amy? His phrenetic pace and style? His upsetting people?

7. The contrast with Andy as hero, friend, persuading Amy to smile, falling in love with her?

8. The comic contribution of Mrs Mac Kaninee and her athletics, the ending?

9. Ordinary comedy, social Issues? The range of political arguments? High pitched style and pace? What went wrong?