Film 1010: Aesthetics and Analysis
Spring 2016
CRN: 18047
Classroom: Aderhold 230: Monday and Wednesday, 12:00-1:15 p.m.

Instructor: Erik Clabaugh
Email: eclabaugh1@student.gsu.edu
Alternate Email: erikclabaugh@yahoo.com
Website:www.erikclabaugh.com
Office: 25 Park Place, 1007B
Office Hours: Mon & Wed 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Course Description:

Film 1010 is designed to build on the historical information gained in Film 2700 by introducing students to the basic terminology and methods commonly utilized in film studies. Students will be equipped with the skills necessary to engage in formal academic evaluation of cinematic texts. We will study how storytelling works, how our cinematic experiences are shaped by our personal histories and expectations, and how thoughtful analysis of moving image texts can enrich our understandings of media and society.

This class puts a strong emphasis on critical thinking, and an even stronger emphasis on writing about film. Consequently, students will be expected to develop the skills necessary to conduct academic research specific to film studies, to formulate a cogent argument, and to convey ideas effectively and coherently via the written word. The critical, argumentative, and written skills gained in this course are those required for upper-level film studies courses as well as for other critical engagements with the world.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Define terms/concepts fundamental to film studies
• Employ these terms/concepts in academic writing, class discussion, and class presentations
• Write analytical/critical essays that show understanding of, engagement with, and thoughtful use of film studies vocabulary