Film Study

Film Study is a semester course designed as an introductory survey of film and film techniques. The student views a wide variety of films after which there are discussions and lectures. The intent of this course is to show you how to watch a film and extract the sometimes esoteric content within that film. To this end, you will learn terms associated with film, jobs within the film industry, how stunts and special effects are done, and how a film is constructed.

GOALS

To develop an understanding of the basics of film and film making to help the student become a more conscious and visually literate film viewer. To develop a respect for the complicated choices make by the artists and artisans responsible for a completed film. To develop an awareness of the variety of cultural and theoretical approaches to the making of films.

REQUIREMENTS AND RULES OF THE CLASS

This class is conducted as an advanced course, so you will be required to take notes. You are expected to take notes during lectures, videos, and the films themselves, so get in the habit of bringing your notes to class every day.

Talking during films is a very bad idea. You will be asked to leave if you cannot accept this.
There will be NO EATING OR DRINKING in the classroom. Please respect this rule.
Be courteous to classmates and staff members. Please read and follow the POLICIES REGARDING STUDENT CONDUCT in the Student Handbook.
Bring the required materials to class as instructed in each class period.
Present each assignment on time. Each assignment is due at the beginning of its due date class period.
Attendance: Attendance at each class is essential in order for you to complete assignments and meet all the class requirements. Please read and follow the policies regarding ATTENDANCE in the Student Handbook.
Comply with the Nouvel Catholic Central Dress Code.

BE ON TIME FOR CLASS! Please read the TARDINESS policy in the Student Handbook.

ASSIGNMENTS

There will be one quiz and one exam per quarter. In addition to the tests and quizzes, the major project for this class is to make your own film. It is to be between 4 and 12 minutes long and may not contain nudity. Some of these films may be sent in for competition, so you might want to watch out for language, as well. You will also need access to a video camcorder and some type of video editing program, plus many hours of your time outside of class to complete this project. Your film is due the week of Senior Exams.

GRADING PROCEDURES

Grades will be determined on work evaluated on achievement in the following areas:

Exams and Quizzes 20%

Film Project and related assignments 80%

1. Proposa 05%

2. Treatment 10%

3. Script 15%

4. Storyboard 15%

5. Film 35%

a. Part A 10%

b. Part B 25%

Late work will receive a reduction in points equivalent to one letter grade provided you hand it in within one week of the due date. Work handed in after one week will receive a failing grade (59 pts.). Work not handed in will receive 0 points. The grading scale to be used in this class is printed in the Student Handbook.

CONFERENCE HOURS

If you need to meet with me for any reason I will be available before class each morning from 7:30 – 7:50am. and after school from 2:40 – 3:00pm.