Revised 09/2012

CST 250 - The Art of the Film (3 CR.)

Course Description

Introduces the art of the film through a survey of film history; viewing, discussion, and analysis of selected films. Studies film techniques such as composition, shot sequence, lighting, visual symbolism, sound effects, and editing. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

Acquaints the student with the development of film as an art form, as well as its social and cultural implications. 

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Fluency in Standard American English. Recommend proficiency in reading and writing at English 111 level.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

• Use appropriate film terminology to describe and analyze film sequences
• Analyze the technical construction and symbolic meaning of a film
• Be able to explain the cultural, political and historical evolution of film
• Identify significant films based on a clear consistent criteria for evaluating film
• Analyze forms and traditions of thought or expression in global film in relation to cultural, historical, political, and social context using proper film terminology

Major Topics to Be Included

 

• History of the cinema, including the history of film technology
• Aesthetics and World Cinema
• Film Aesthetics: cinematography, montage, sound, et al
• Film language
• Significant film theory and film theorists
• Major styles in art/film
• Writing film criticism and theory