The Truman Show as Utopian/Dystopian Literature

Characteristics of Utopian Literature—need at least 3 details from the movie

for each characteristic

Secure lives without fear:

Adequate supplies without hard work:

Sameness:
Characteristics of Dystopian Literature—need at least 3 details from the
movie for each characteristic

Government or Structured System replaces religion and family:

Lack of individualism:

Warning or sign of hope:

Truman

1. What kind of person is Truman?

2. Why has he been chosen as the star of this media show? Why doesn’t he know
about it?

3. In what ways has Truman been influenced by the media? Describe a specific scene
from the movie that illustrates this.

4. List 5 reasons why Truman should enter the real world.

5. List 5 reason why Truman should NOT enter the real world.

6. What difficulties do you think Truman will encounter if he enters the real world?
Seahaven

7. What type of place is Seahaven?

8. In what ways does it fit with the American Dream? Describe a specific scene from
the movie that illustrates this.

9. What messages do you think the makers of the reality TV program are trying to
communicate? Why?

Christof

10. What is Christof’s role in the reality TV program?

11. Describe a specific scene in the movie when Christof manipulates Truman. Why do
you think Christof manipulates Truman in this way?
Themes

13. Television is a dangerous and powerful intrusion on modern life. Discuss with
reference to The Truman Show and the characteristics of a utopia/dystopia.

14. "The demands of the show take precedence over all other human values."
(Reviewer) What human values come off second best in The Truman Show? Why?

15. “Having control of one’s life as opposed to being controlled by outside forces is
crucial to human happiness, growth and fulfillment.” Discuss with reference to The
Truman Show.