Film & Media Studies 441 - Documentary Production

Fall
2016
01
4.00
Adam Levine
TH 01:00PM-04:00PM; T 07:00PM-10:00PM
Amherst College
FAMS-441-01-1617F
FAYE 215
alevine@amherst.edu
ARHA-441-01,FAMS-441-01

(Offered as ARHA 441 and FAMS 441.)  Intended for advanced film/video production students, this course will explore creative documentary practice through readings, weekly screenings and production assignments. Each student will complete a series of projects working both as a single maker and in collaboration with other members of the class. Topics may include: shooting the interview; scripting, performance and reenactment; history and narrativity; place and space; ethnography and the “embedded” filmmaker. We will also host visiting filmmakers and, where possible, visit a cultural institution which supports and screens cutting-edge documentary work.


The course will be taught annually but will focus on a set of revolving themes and issues that inform contemporary documentary filmmaking and the critical discourse that  surrounds it. The theme for fall 2016 will be “Places and Spaces.”  One 3-hour class (some of which will include field shooting and research trips) and one evening screening each week.


Requisite: A prior 200-level production course or relevant experience (to be discussed with the instructor in advance of the first class). Limited to 12 students. Fall semester. Professor Levine.

Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.