Reflective Essay Questions for The Truman Show

Mr. Mendelsohn/ English-Language Arts/ Verdugo Hills Multimedia Magnet HS

Directions: On your own paper, answer the following questions based on your
viewing of The Truman Show. All answers should contain specific references (CDs)
to scenes or dialogue from the film.

1. In your own words, describe Truman’s world, using at least three (3) concrete details.
According to Christof (“The Creator”), why is Truman’s world more desirable than
the “real” world?

2. What is Truman’s job, and why do you think he has it? How does his job reflect
and/or reinforce his fears?

3. What are three (3) specific clues that Truman’s world is an illusion? At what point
does Truman become aware that things are not as they appear to be?

4. What accounts for Truman’s increasingly anxious and (in some cases) violent
behavior? In your opinion, are these the reactions of a “sane” person? Explain why or
why not.

5. Compare the reaction(s) of Truman’s audience during the show and after he leaves:
Why do so many want to see him get out? How does the audience respond after he
does? What commentary on modern-day society do you think the filmmaker is
making?

6. Name at least two (2) specific ways we have become a society of spectators. Do you
see yourself as more of a watcher or a participant in life? Briefly explain your
answer.

7. Agree or disagree with Christof’s statement, “We accept the reality of the world with
which we’re presented.” What commentary on modern-day society do you think the
director is making?

Revised 6/2009