Cinema Against the Grain

Now that the cinematic present is dominated by
previews for video games and theme park rides,
and the cinematic past threatens to congeal into
AFI's greatest hits lists, it is particularly
important to examine under-appreciated, even
disreputable films that have gotten lost in the
shuffle. 'Cinema Against the Grain' presents
(mostly) independent films in historical context
and deals with the themes and formal strategies
of works that have thus far been refused a secure
place in the canon. Screenings include films
directed by Oscar Michaeux, Rowland Brown, James
Bidgood, Fred Halsted, Doris Wishman and others.
The requirements for the course are a paper per
week, attendance at lectures and readings from
photocopied articles and books on reserve.
Offered by Program in Film and Video.