Course Calendar

Course Description:

Film directors make conscious shooting and editing choices throughout movies. Students learn about shooting and editing early in the course so that they can use this knowledge of film technique as a means of analyzing what they see. In addition to the specific language of film, students examine the themes and messages of movies as well as the use of symbolism, irony, foreshadowing, and other similar devices.

Students watch film tutorials, films, and occasional film clips. Literature, articles (newspaper, magazine, online publication, etc.), critical essays, reviews, and related readings accompany the viewing we do in class. Assignments range from written analysis of specific film shots and larger analytical essays to personal responses and creative projects.

Course Goals:

• Identify and use the language of film analysis (cinematic devices and elements of film form)

• Analyze how cinematic devices support character, narrative, and theme

• Use cinematic devices to support character, narrative, and/or theme (i.e. make movies!)

• Evaluate films based on the relationship between form and content

• Evaluate films based on their contribution to popular culture

Google Classroom: Please go to Google Classroom to find class materials, handouts, homework, and writing assignments.