An introduction to the critical study of film, this course familiarizes students with canonical films (i.e., critically acclaimed and historically influential works), various methods of filmmaking, and several ways to interpret and evaluate films. Specifically, we will consider the following: conventions and techniques of film art (mise-en-scene, cinematography, editing, sound); specific types of films (the film musical, documentaries, experimental films); significant film movements (Italian Neorealism, French New Wave, the New Hollywood); and some critical theories within the field of film studies.
Please note: Introduction to Film is not designed to teach students how to make their own films or to provide students with an opportunity to watch contemporary movies and then chat casually about why they are “boring” or “cool.” Please keep the above goals in mind throughout the semester.
Required Texts/Materials
- Looking at Movies: An Introduction to Film (Barsam and Monahan)
- ALL FEATURE-LENGTH FILMS ARE CONSIDERED REQUIRED TEXTS AS WELL.
REQUIRED TEXTS AND MATERIALS
· Film Noir (FN), Andrew Spicer.
· A Short Guide to Writing about Film (SG), Timothy Corrigan.
· Additional readings including fiction, journal articles, and book chapters may be found on the course website.
· ALL FEATURE-LENGTH FILMS ARE CONSIDERED REQUIRED TEXTS AS WELL.
