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Undergraduate Studies Catalog (1997-1999)


Film Studies - Interdisciplinary Minor

The film studies program is an interdisciplinary minor designed to aid students in developing a broad understanding of the history of film, an awareness of film language used by filmmakers, and a critical viewing ability. The faculty for the program have been drawn from the Departments of Anthropology, Communication, English and History and bring a variety of experience and perspectives to the study of film.

Students interested in the film studies program should contact Dr. Jack Rollwagen, 131 Smith Hall, (716) 395-5707.

The film studies minor requires the completion of 18 credits as follows:

Courses Credits
ENL 200 The Art of the Film 3
FLM 301 Theory and Criticism of Film (Offered as Independent Study) 1-3
FLM 302 Documentary and Experimental Film 3
One course under the category Film and Society, by advisement 3
Additional Film Studies courses, by advisement 6-8
Total: 16-20





key
Film Studies Courses

FLM 301 Theory and Criticism of Film (A). Covers theoretical movements and perspectives such as formalism and realism, semiotics, structuralism, and post-structuralism. Explores key issues and concepts and their practical usefulness in the analysis of filmic texts. Presents historical and contemporary readings and screenings. Offered as an Independent Study. 1-3 Cr.

FLM 302 Documentary Film (A). Provides an introduction to documentary and experimental films. Explores the nature of documentary and experimental films as creative scientific works; as statements by individuals living within particular cultural frameworks; as instruments of persuasion and propaganda; and as devices which expand our perspectives on the world around us. 3 Cr.

FLM 404 Documentary Film Production (A). Provides an introduction to video production, emphasizing the pre-production process: selection of EFP equipment; developing a framework for documentary production, including appropriate references; and preparing to interview experts. Entails some discussion of computer shot logs, time coding, video-to-audio transfers for transcriptions, and the preparation of narrative. Requires no production experience and includes no editing. 3 Cr.

FLM 491 Seminar in Film (A). To be defined by the instructor in accordance with the specific subject matter covered that semester. Content varies with the appropriate subtitles provided. Example: "Revolution as Presented in Film." 3 Cr.



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