Communication 490F - Super 8mm Film Art Production

This course will cover filmmaking techniques (both black and white and color reversal) with a Super 8mm film camera that will train students how to craft compelling silent films and films with an optical soundtrack. Students will learn the basics of shooting with analog film that include its anatomy, its sensitivity (ISO), and how to properly expose the film's emulsion to light using the camera functions and lenses. Additionally, students will learn the technical ins and outs of working with film cameras that include how to load, focus, run, maintain, and operate using a standard Super 8mm film camera. This class cover both in-camera and post-production editing techniques. The goal is to create short films on Super 8mm, which you conceived, directed, shot, and edited to your own non-sync soundtrack. We will also discuss how to promote your film outside of the classroom setting. Students will complete several collaborative and individual projects for the course and will also write responses to critical readings and weekly screenings. Moreover, the class will cover the history of film art its inception to its contemporary 21st century iterations and will develop students' analytical skills in watching and assessing film art.

COMM 231