Humanities Arts Cultural Stu 0277 - Theories Methods Film Studies

In her seminal essay "Film Bodies: Gender, Genre, and Excess," Linda Williams observed, "The repetitive formulas and spectacles of film genres are often defined by their differences from the classical realist style of narrative cinema." In this course, we will use the relationship between gender and genre as a lens through which to view these differences in American and global cinema of the 1950s and 1960s as we trace the evolution of film theory since the 1970s. Readings will draw on foundational texts in psychoanalysis, feminist and queer theory, postcolonial theory, and other trends in film criticism, accompanied by weekly screenings. This course is designed to meet the needs of students pursuing Division II concentrations in film and media studies and related fields, and will meet the film theory requirement for the Five College Major in Film Studies.

Independent Work Multiple Cultural Perspectives Writing and Research Prerequisite: Introduction to Film Studies or an equivalent introductory media studies course. Students are expected to spend 8-10 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time.