| Description |
In my Contemporary Film study group, we will be watching, discussing, (and hopefully enjoying) several films from the last several years. At the start of each study group I'll introduce each film, along with my reasons for showing it and points to watch for. It will most likely take 2 study groups to watch each film in its entirety, and once we finish we'll have a led discussion focusing on storytelling and filming techniques, as well as plot themes. One of the films will be 'The Prestige' (if you haven't seen it yet, wait until the study group! If you have, please don't give away the plot.) starring Christian Bale and directed by Christopher Nolan (director of this past summer's 'The Dark Knight') and I may also show an episode of Buffy The Vampire Slayer.
I don't think there will be any homework, though I ask that people who take this study group are prepared to be involved in discussion after the movie is over. You don't have to intensely analyze every single plot point, just sharing your thoughts and impressions of the films will be plenty.
Two films we will be watching are rated R. The first is rated R solely for language and does not feature any violence nor any sexual content whatsoever. The second, while a comedy, does have very brief violence in two scenes as well as some sexual content, but it is done in the pursuit of farce. The violence in particular is not war-like or done to express brutality, rather it is shown to express how ridiculous the situation in the film has become. The sexual content is not plot integral and I'm very willing to skip over it if people so wish. If people are uncomfortable with my showing this particular film at all, then I can find a replacement, though I would absolutely love to show it as I think it's one of the best comedies of the decade. I'd like to keep these other two movies a surprise, but if you have concerns you're welcome to email and I will discuss them with you.
I also won't be showing anything that will horribly depress you, just because I think it's intelligent. If I show a film, my first reason for showing it will always be because I think it's a good and enjoyable movie. Whether or not it makes you think as well is my second priority.
I can also guarantee popcorn at every movie. =) |