In this course, students will develop skills in film analysis by scrutinizing famous films and learning about the theories, methods, and disciplines that are required to create motion pictures. They’ll be introduced to the different vocabulary of film and media and discover how vision and art are portrayed through pictures. They’ll learn to construct sound criticisms and arguments about how a film’s images, sounds, and scenery are utilized to create meaning for the audience, and they’ll discuss how the writer, director, and producers achieve these goals. Further, students will be introduced to the historical and cultural topics related to several different films by studying each film’s style and narrative form. They will also discuss the impact that these films had on the cinematic landscape and society at large.

Examples of the films that will be covered in this course include To Kill a Mockingbird, Casablanca, Jaws, E.T., Duck Soup, Toy Story, and Young Frankenstein. Whether your youngster loves making home movies or just watching movies at home, this course will shed light on the intricacies of what goes into making timeless and iconic cinema—as well as movies that are just plain fun to watch.

Live Classes: Tuesdays AND Thursdays, 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, from the week of September 4th to the week of December 11th. Please note that this course meets two days each week.

Student Expectations: At the end of each film, the students will write a film analysis in the form of a five-paragraph critique. Students will also be expected to complete weekly homework assignments and to participate in the live class discussions.

Student Support: The instructor is available via email.

Feedback/Assessment: Feedback will be given on the assignments.

Materials/Supplies: Because of the way in which this course will be conducted, it is extremely important that students have a stable internet connection. They will also need a working printer. All other materials will be available on the internet.

Prerequisites: Students will need a signed parental release form, which will be provided upon enrollment.