COURSE DESCRIPTION Have you ever wondered what message a film is trying to convey? Movies can help viewers temporarily escape from the real world, but they are also a true art form and expressive tool used by writers, directors, and actors. In this Film Appreciation course, we will explore the aesthetics of cinema, the concepts behind storytelling and various elements of a film. We’ll discover the elements of what makes a ‘good’ film and understand the role movies play in our daily lives and in society. We will also discuss the vital roles that directors and critics play in the movie making process.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• 1. Recognize types of films, their impact on society, and their roles in our lives

• 2. Recall the concepts behind storytelling, Mise en Scène, and cinematography

• 3. Identify ways sound contributes to movies

• 4. List the roles of directors and critics in the film industry

• 5. Identify types of movie genres and various editing styles

Students will be given a list of movies to watch each week and we will discuss different aspects of the movies.