No one should need to read a book or watch a movie (a movie?

You should be able to summarize or make points about the evidence, in your own words. And cite resources if necessary, that back up your points.
Can you imagine, say you're in a court of law, arguing your case... and you tell the jury "you all need to read this book and watch this movie to see the evidence"? The entire courtroom would laugh at you.
No, if you're going to argue points, then explain yourself. Doesn't need to be a huge thesis, either.