National Cinema (351-0-21)

Topic

Chinese Independent Cinema

Instructors

John Sniadecki

Meeting Info

Helmerich Auditorium: Wed 5:00PM - 8:50PM

Overview of class

This course delves into a history of Chinese independent cinema, which began in the 1980s and reached a "golden age" in the first decade and a half of this century, forming one of the more exciting and edgy movements in global film culture. Classes will prioritize the collective viewing of "seminal" works - alongside lesser known yet important contributions - that encompass the genres of experimental, documentary, fiction, and hybrid genres, with a particular emphasis on non-fiction. Outside of the course time together, students will engage with selected readings, additional online viewing, and complete short response papers. Screenings will often be intensive and challenging, though ultimately rewarding for both graduate students and motivated undergrads. For the final project, students have a choice: you can either 1) write a final research paper, or 2) produce a film/media project (accompanied by a written description of how the film/media project is in dialogue with the aesthetics, themes, and/or stakes of course.

Please note that films viewed in and out of class may contain disturbing and graphic content, including violence against humans and nonhuman animals.

Learning Objectives

Learning objectives include strengthening your understanding of a key strand in the weave of film history; developing your sensitivity and stamina as a film viewer; and expanding your awareness of the diverse cultural, social, and political contexts that animate(d) Chinese independent cinema.

Evaluation Method

Attendance
Class participation
Homework
Online work
Project, final
Readings
Writing assignments

Class Materials (Required)

Access to internet for screenings outside of class times. All materials provided in Canvas.

Class Notes

Depending on the length of films screened, this class may not always run 4 hours each meeting