This course concentrates on close analysis and criticism of a wide range of films, from the early silent period, classic Hollywood genres including musicals, thrillers and westerns, and European and Japanese art cinema. It explores the work of Griffith, Chaplin, Keaton, Capra, Hawks, Hitchcock, Altman, Renoir, DeSica, and Kurosawa. Through comparative reading of films from different eras and countries, students develop the skills to turn their in-depth analyses into interpretations and explore theoretical issues related to spectatorship.

This course explores the issues of class and conflict as portrayed in the films  City of God and La Haine. It focuses particularly on the use of Mise en Scène.  It is suitable for students aged 16 -18 and includes sample answers with a variety of individual and collaborative activities.