Communication 140 - Introduction to Film Studies

Fall
2020
03
3.00
Diana Kasem
M W 2:30PM 3:45PM
UMass Amherst
67494
Fully Remote Class
dkasem@umass.edu
This course offers an introduction to the study of film as a distinct medium. It introduces the ways in which film style, form, and genre contribute to the meaning and the experience of movies. Topics include film as industrial commodity, narrative and non-narrative form, aspects of style (e.g. composition, cinematography, editing, and sound), and the role of film as a cultural practice. Examples are drawn from new and classic films, from Hollywood and from around the world. This course is intended to serve as a basis for film studies courses you might take in the future.
Open to students in the Communications Majors RAP in Pierpont Hall. The Communication Majors RAP is a program for students who are motivated to connect with other Communication majors. Students will enroll together in "Introduction to Film Studies" (COMM 140). What is the power and role of cinema in our culture? In this course, we will watch and critically analyze different categories of movies. Together, we will learn cinema terminology, the role of film studies in different areas of communication, and how this unique medium contributes to our understanding of culture and society.

See https://www.umass.edu/rap/communication-majors
Multiple required components--lab and/or discussion section. To register, submit requests for all components simultaneously.
Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.