Topics in Legal Studies (376-0-20)
Topic
The Crime Centered Documentary
Instructors
Debra K Tolchinsky
Meeting Info
Annie May Swift Hall 219: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM
Overview of class
LEGAL_ST 376-0-20 The Crime Centered Documentary, Prof. Debra Tolchinsky, Winter 2022.
(Course also taught as HUM 370-6-22, RTVF 377-0-20)
In this course, we will view non-fiction and hybrid films that revolve around crime, criminal justice, and criminal court cases. Our emphasis will be on cases that are either mired in controversy and/or emblematic of wider social concerns. Readings will accompany viewings and experts will weigh in with legal, philosophical or scientific perspectives: What is accurately depicted? What is omitted? What is misrepresented? Concurrently, we will investigate the films aesthetically: How is the film structured and why? What choices are being made by the filmmaker in terms of camera, sound and editing and how do these choices affect viewers? Throughout the course, we will consider the ethics of depicting real people and traumatic events. We will also look at specific films in regard to their legal or societal impact.
Assignments will include a series of short response papers and a substantial final project, which can take the form of either (up to the student) a 10-12 page paper or an 6-12 minute film/podcast/media project. Projects should center upon a legal topic. Ideas include, but are not limited to, a paper that compares two films depicting the same criminal case or a polished/edited film interview with an individual connected to a crime or involved with the legal system (a defendant, a lawyer, a judge, a policeperson, etc.). Additional topics could center around mitigation films, viral crime videos, local courts, legal advocacy centers, or hybrid crime films.
Registration Requirements
For RTVF students, RTVF 190. LS and HUM students do not need that prerequisite
Attendance at first class required
Evaluation Method
Attendance, class participation, professionalism: 20 % of grade
Three short papers, 10 points each: 30 % of grade
Final project proposal/pitch: 10 % of grade
Final Project: 40 % of grade
Class Materials (Required)
Supplies, picture/audio editing software, and equipment are students' responsibility if they decide to create a media project instead of a final paper. Students can use their cell phone and their computer or pending availability, they may borrow equipment from the Northwestern Library: http://libguides.northwestern.edu/circulatingequipment/summary. RTVF students who have filled out a deposit card and taken 190 may acquire gear from the equipment cage.
All media projects must be backed up on a hard drive (approximately 60 to 130 dollars for 1TB depending on the brand) and turned in via Vimeo (basic membership is free, but if you use more than 5GB (500 MB per week), you will need to upgrade your membership https://help.vimeo.com/hc/en-us/articles/224818307-Basic-membership. If this poses an issue, please let me know in advance so we can figure out an alternative.
Although most films will be available on Canvas, a basic Netflix subscription or access to Netflix is necessary for this class. As of this writing, the cost is approximately nine dollars a month (there may be some tax). Subscriptions can be canceled when the course terminates (there are no contracts).
https://help.netflix.com/en/node/24926?ui_action=kb-article-popular-categories
All reading material will be posted on Canvas or handed out in class.
Class Notes
Attendance at first class is required unless cleared by the professor.
For students who have not completed RTVF 190, if you choose to make a film or podcast for your final project, you must have access to equipment and editing software.
Students creating media projects must strictly adhere to RTVF Covid Best Practice guidelines and pass RTVF's Covid Best Practices test. Info on the policies can be found under forms: https://communication.northwestern.edu/radio-television-film/for-current-rtvf-students/.
Technical skills such as lighting, camera, sound, and editing will not be taught in this class.
Group projects (two people max) will be allowed.