Radio/Television/Film Genre (322-0-20)
Topic
That Took a Turn: Bent Genres
Instructors
Neil Verma
Meeting Info
Annie May Swift Hall 219: Tues 12:00PM - 2:50PM
Overview of class
This class introduces students to the study and analysis of contemporary media by considering an emerging cultural phenomenon: narrative genre bending. While genre blending and genre subversion have been common features of tv, radio and film for many decades, often used to signify innovation, in recent years it is increasingly the case that prominent works convey a feeling of "that took a turn," in that many feature a moment where a narrative seems to suddenly not just change directions, but actually become something else, for someone else, about someone else.
This class is an open-ended investigation into why this kind of story is emerging. Our class begins with a prominent recent instance of the phenomenon (Watchmen) before looking to the roots of the genre in the essay film (Two or Three Things I Know About Her, F For Fake). We then consider key bent story cases in contemporary TV and podcasting that deal with queerness (Nanette, S-Town), at the same time introducing students to aspects of genre theory. In the second half of the course, we consider contemporary cultural theory about media consumption alongside three types of genre turn films: aestheticized meta noir and meta horror (Dark City, From Dusk Til Dawn), narrative melodramas that turn into critiques of heteronormativity (Certified Copy, Kevin can F*** Himself) and high-concept rhetorical art films that seem, on the surface, to represent "turns against" neoliberal and capitalist logics (Bacurau, Parasite).
Registration Requirements
This class is open to all, with a maximum enrollment of 12. It is recommended that students have taken RTVF 220, but that is not a requirement.
Learning Objectives
Students will leave this class with vocabulary to help them understand and express how genre works in a variety of media forms, as well as important concepts in narratology.
Students will learn how to talk about works of contemporary narrative media, in particular how media both reflect and drive cultural anxieties and trends in the digital age.
Students will learn how to research a film, podcast or TV show, including both popular and scholarly discourse.
Evaluation Method
Each student will be asked to present on one of the films, podcasts or TV shows discussed in class. The presentation will consist of a summary and analysis of three scholarly articles about the work.
Each student will also write a term paper of 6-8 pages focusing on a narrative turn in a narrative work of their choosing.
Class participation and discussion will also be a factor.
Class Materials (Required)
This class emphasizes viewing. Reading materials will be limited to one chapter or essay a week. Readings will be available on Canvas.
Class Notes
Films will either be available in canvas or shown in class.
Class Attributes
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area