Film & Television Studies: Classical Cinema

Introduction to basic film history, theory, and analytical skills. An historical overview of classical international cinema.

Asynchronous online

This course is an introduction to the history of motion pictures up to the collapse of the Hollywood studio system. In the course of our study, we will consider the major cultural, social and political forces that were necessary for the development of film into the preeminent form of popular entertainment in the twentieth century. We will also examine the aesthetic and technological influences that lead to the formation of classical Hollywood cinema, a cinematic style that significantly shaped film production internationally. Other national cinemas and genres that arose outside of mainstream Hollywood production will also be examined. The primary objective of the course is to provide students with an introductory understanding the history of classical cinema as well as to sharpen skills in critical film analysis.

Asynchronous. Regular recorded lectures and screenings.

Weekly online assignments including short quizzes and exams.