Spring 2019

Abstract

76-239 Introduction to Film & Media Studies Instructor: Jeffrey Hinkelman Meetings: Lecture: MWF 1:30-2:20 p.m.; Screening: T 6:30-9:20 p.m. Units: 9 This course is an introduction to the history, technology, aesthetics and ideology of film. The main focus will be on the narrative fiction film, but we will also discuss documentaries, avant-garde work and animation. At the same time, we will be attentive to the ways in which our conceptual understanding of film has impacted the development of successive waves of visual media. The central organizing principle is historical, but there are a number of recurring thematic concerns. These include an examination of the basic principles and terminology of filmmaking, the development of film technology, the definition of film as both art and business, the history of film as an object of critical and cultural study, and the importance of film as the precursor of newer formats. The course has four key goals. First, to provide students with a solid grounding in the key issues and concepts of film studies. Second, to expand their ability to knowledgeably critique individual cinematic works and the relationship of those works to the larger culture. Third to provide students with experience in expressing those critiques in verbal, written and visual forms. Lastly, to provide them with an understanding of the central role of film history and film studies in the development of newer media.