A History of Film II - 1950-PRESENT

A History of Film is a two semester survey of cinema from its origins in the late 19th century to the present day. The course emphasizes the development of cinema aesthetics through the study of works by major filmmakers and national cinemas. The Fall semester covers the period from 1895 to 1950, focusing on both the evolution of narrative filmmaking and challenges to that style. The Spring semester is concerned with work from 1950 to today, with particular attention paid to the impact of neo-realism and the proliferation of new national cinemas and alternative approaches. The course is designed as a yearlong sequence and is best experienced that way, but students can begin the sequence in Spring, take a single semester, or repeat semesters to see alternate programming. Auditing is encouraged depending on class size. The class consists of lectures and screenings; after each session a voluntary (but highly recommended) discussion group meets to talk about that week's films. Requirements include strict regular attendance, weekly readings, weekly short papers and a final research project. Offered by Program in Film and Video. Required of PFV BFA1 and EA BFA2. May be repeated for credit. Please note that the first two class sessions are foundational for the course and that intensive reading and writing assignments begin immediately; you are discouraged from adding late.