All Fall 2012 Screenwriting and Theory Classes

Elements of Film

This course is an introduction to the critical viewing and understanding of film as an art form. Students learn the vocabulary necessary to analyze film. The function of various film elements is discussed and examples are shown in class from narrative feature films, animation, documentaries and experimental films. Students develop the skills necessary to view, appreciate, understand and discuss film as a complex art, capable of multiple modes of expression and meaning. Grading is based on written exams, homework and attendance. Outside viewing may be required. In addition to tuition, a $35 course fee is charged. 42 classroom hours.

Prerequisite(s):

None.

Section(s):

FLM 107 A Thu 2:00-5:00 Howell

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Film History Short Courses

Offered in three 4-week sessions: take one, two, or all three. The non-credit tuition for each separate Film History Short Course is $150; for students who register for all three short courses, the tuition is $390. No other discounts apply to tuition for these courses; no course fee is added for these courses. Each of these short courses may be taken for one credit at most of our educational partner schools.

Dictating Morals: Movie Censorship

Mondays 6:00 - 9:30 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1 O’Sullivan
The story of who controls the scissors in the film industry is a fascinating one. Discussions will cover early fears of immorality in the movies and local censorship boards, the formation of the iron-clad Production Code, the evolution of the MPAA ratings system, as well as current controversies. Students will watch examples of films that caused the censors to have conniptions, from 1930 to 1970, including Midnight Cowboy. Grading is based on class participation and one short paper.

Visionaries: Landmarks of American Cinema

Mondays 6:00 - 9:30 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29 O’Sullivan
Citizen Kane was not initially a box-office hit yet it’s now widely-regarded as the best American film ever made. Students will watch and analyze groundbreaking movies that forever changed the way narrative films were made, considering the contributions of directors who were ahead of their time. Grading is based on class participation and one short paper.

Big Screen/Small Screen: How TV Changed the Movies

Mondays 6:00 - 9:30 11/5, 11/12, 11/26, 12/3 O’Sullivan

In the 1950s, when televisions first made an appearance in the living rooms of America, the film industry feared it was a death sentence. In fact, it sparked a creative period, as movies attempted to give audiences what they couldn’t get at home. Whole new genres were born (such as the Teen Picture). Technical innovations include: widescreen, color, 3D, and stereo sound. Students will watch and discuss Rebel Without a Cause and more. Grading is based on class participation and one short paper.