FILM 1  
INTRODUCTION TO FILM STUDIES (#55352)

Reedley College – Spring 2011
M 6-8:50  FRM 1
Instructor: Kate Fourchy
Email: kate.fourchy@reedleycollege.edu   
Phone: 559-638-3641 (ext. 3406)
Office: HUM 52   
Office hours: T 3-4, W 1-2, Th 1-3     

Class Description: The purpose of this course is to provide you with some basic analytical tools for viewing film. In acquiring these tools you will discover that developing a more sophisticated, analytical eye and mind enhances rather than detracts from the pleasure of watching movies. First, we will examine various components of filmmaking—the rhetorical choices filmmakers can make in telling a story in visual and aural terms. We will then consider more conceptual issues in film criticism—what constitutes film authorship, film genres, film ideology and what alternatives exist to mainstream fictional film. Our films come from major directors across a large expanse of time. Some may be in black or white, some may have subtitles—all are worthwhile.

Student Learning Outcomes: Upon successfully completing this class, a student should be able to observe and analyze various elements of a film, critique films through discussion and writing with regard to social and historical context, and demonstrate a basic knowledge and application of various film theories.

Requirements and Textbooks: Phillips, William H. Film: An Introduction, notebook, writing implement
The textbook is REQUIRED. There will be two copies on reserve at the library. If the bookstore runs out, the book will be available to you within days. I caution against ordering online, as it can take quite some time to arrive. The book is the foundation of the thinking in this classroom. You will be tested on the reading material frequently.

Decorum & Policies: Do not come late to class. Do not leave early through the back door. If this time does not work for you, drop the class. DO NOT USE YOUR PHONES. If you use your phone, you will be asked to leave. I expect you to take copious notes during screenings. I recommend a pen light or a small flashlight to help you with this. Screenings are a time for serious viewing, not only your entertainment. If there is any talking, or other behavior that is rude to your instructor and your classmates, you will be asked to leave. If you miss a film, it is your responsibility to view the film either on your own, or by coming to my office. Two absences within the first 9 weeks of class may cause the student to be dropped from the class. Late work will be accepted for partial credit with the instructor’s approval (10% deduction for each class day late-weekends included). Note: this does not apply to the final project and its components or the final exam. In the rare event of coming to class late, it is the student’s responsibility to make sure the roll has been updated. 

Plagiarism: In the event of plagiarism (see Schedule of Courses for more information) the student will fail the assignment, and possibly the entire course. In addition, you will be reported to the Dean of Student Services. I have a zero tolerance policy for plagiarism.

Grading:  Grading will be based on a point system. 
90%A 80%B 70%C 60%D 50%F 

1. Response essay (in class)          50
2. Midterm essay 			100
3. Final essay		 		200
4. Tests	     			200		 
5. Quick Writes			TBD                                

Final drop date: March 11

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities:
If you have special needs as addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including alternate media requests, please notify me immediately. Reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate your special needs.

Schedule
January 10: Introduction to class. 
HW: Read Chapter 6 “Components of Fictional Films”

January 17: No class MLK Holiday

January 24: Citizen Kane

January 31: Narrative/Various Clips
HW: Read Chapter 1 “Mise en Scene”

Feb. 7: The Graduate

Feb. 14: Test Chapters 6&1 100 points
Mise en Scene/Various Clips
HW: Read Chapter Two “Cinematography”

February 21: No class Washington Birthday

February 28: The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

March 7: Midterm Essay Due 100 pts.
Cinematography/Various Clips
HW: Read Chapter 3 “Editing”

March 14: Fargo

March 21: Editing/Various Clips
HW: Read Chapter 4 “Sound”

March 28: Rear Window

April 4: Test Chapters 3&4 100 points. 
Sound/Various Clips
HW: Read Chapter 7 “Types of Fictional Films”

Apri1 11: Chinatown
Prompt for final project

April 18: No Class—Spring Break

April 25: 8 ½
HW: Final Project Due May 2 200 points

May 2: Avant-Garde and Experimental Film/Clips
Final Project Due: No late work accepted

May 9: Adaptation
HW: Final

May 16: Final 6-8:50 FRM 1

(The instructor reserves the right to make any changes to this material at any time.)