ARTS 251: Personal documentary
Prof. cecilia aldarondo

In this course, we will survey the terrain of personal documentary in all its complexity–its marginal roots, and its current mainstream appeal. Examining a wide array of formal approaches from diary films, to archival excavations, to first-person odysseys, we will ask: what does it mean to tell a story that is personal, vulnerable, ethical? How is the current watershed moment of COVID provoking us to re-imagine our ideas of self and community, private and public? How to avoid predictability and narcissism, and instead use self-reflection productively? How do race, sexuality, class and gender inflect personal filmmaking? Major assignments will include 3-4 short videos; supplementary assignments include a daily diary, weekly film screenings, and 1-2 readings per week. In order to comply with social distancing mandates, the majority of this course will occur online and production assignments will be designed to ensure maximum student safety. While students will have access to campus equipment and lab space, assignments will embrace the possibilities of at-home, DIY approaches to filmmaking.

'Fire'
Kester Messan
Fall 2020
Video with Sound

'On Home'
Victoria Liu
Fall 2020
Video with Sound

'Grown Up(s)'
Carolyn Jordan
Fall 2020
Video with Sound

'Cluett Walk'
Priscilla Mercado
Fall 2020
Video with Sound

'Coming to Canada'
Caleigh Paster
Fall 2020
Video with Sound