COMM 2850 American Cinema and Culture

3 Credit Hour(s)

This course is an examination of the development of American Cinema as a contemporary performance art form from a technical, theoretical, social, and multicultural perspective. Students will partake in an analysis of films as artistic works and their significance in society. They will be exposed to various film genres, methods of film production, film aesthetics, and film’s impact on society. Cinema both shapes culture and creates culture. There will be an emphasis on film history, historical events, and film’s effect on culture. A prerequisite of ENGL 2860 Introduction to Film is suggested but not required.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Develop a working knowledge of American film history from the silent cinema to the present day through the lens of historical events and technological innovation.
Identify and use the critical language of film theory and technical aspects and integrate concepts in writing and discussions.
Recognize and analyze the role Hollywood films play in creating and illustrating American popular culture.
Identify and recognize the relationship between film technology and art.
Discuss the role of genres in American film history, and recognize the connection between some popular genres and American cultural and social tensions.
Will state and justify their own views (discussion and in writing) on films screened with greater coherence, clarity, depth, and insight, giving students a voice in interpreting cinema and the formation of related culture.

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1010