Introduction to Film Syllabus for 2011-2012
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Course

COMM-2366-002 Introduction to Film

Prerequisites

Course Description

An introductory course in film studies which surveys the American film industry as an art from, a business and a means of communication. Extensive screenings and analysis of representative films from various genres. An examination of how Hollywood films work technically, artistically and culturally.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Online Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

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Supplies

None

Student Performance

This class is designed to make you aware of that great American cultural institution known as Hollywood movies. We will investigate how it works as a technolgy, an art form and a business.

We will be watching and discussing an eight part documentary series illuminating those very attributes. In addition, you will watch and review four films from four different and significant genres (Google it)  Classical Hollywood, Film Noir, The Film School Generation of the 1970s and Contemporary independent filmmakers.  You will be writing a 500 (minimum) word review for each.

In addition, you may choose to do an optional 5th review on any film of your choice near the end of our semester.

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If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

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Grading Criteria

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Attendance

"Attendance"  You need to log in at least twice a week to check assignments, announcements, emails and group discussions.  Yes, your instructor will know when you have --- or have not--- logged in.

Any student who fails to log in or who fails to post on the discussion board during the first two weeks of the semester will be dropped from the class.

Screenings:  You will be watching four, perhaps five,  films.  I recommend you watch them all at least once, even those you've seen before.  Read the discussion questions and essay assignments for hints of what to look for.

Plan ahead to rent the disc.  Consider purchasing some films.  Most of the older films are inexpensive...and remember, you have no required texts to purchase for American Cinema.

Notes:  In order to be an "active participant" rather than a "passive spectator" you will take notes.  Pay attention to sight and sound.  Write things down as you notice them.  You will forget --- Suspension of Disbelief (Google it) is a goal of the filmmaker.  Rewind and look again when you realize you've become absorbed.  Refer to your notes when writing your reviews.

Discussion Forums:  You are expected to contribute an original comment AND provide at least two thoughtful responses to someone else's comments each week.  Take some time with these. "Good job, Sam." does not count as a thoughtful response.

Annenberg American Cinema Presentations:  You will be watching eight.  Two are 30 minutes, the others slightly under an hour.  These programs will provide much of the cognitive course material and are available online at no charge.  

You may have noted there are no exams in this class.  You may also note that there is a good deal of writing.  This is a reading and writing class,  not  a movie watching class. Think of it as an English class.  It is recommended that you complete English Freshman Composition I before attempting American Cinema.

I am always available to answer questions or help in other ways you may find useful.  Do not hesitate to ask.

Calendar

Additional Information

Assignments must be turned in on time.

You will have a three day window of opportunity to participate in each online discussion of the 10 Annenberg units. On the fourth day the window will shut.

Reviews all have deadlines. You will be apprised of due dates well in advance. Late reviews will be accepted but will be penalized one full letter grade, e.g., a "B" review will record as "C."