Artists in Film: Artists' Biopics

Catalog description

Examines artists' 'biopics,' biographical films about artists, chronologically from the subgenre's first appearance in 1936 to recent films. Explores relationships between film and history and between film and myths of creativity; major directors' attraction to artists' biopics; stereotypes of artists (e.g., genius, deviant); and how notions of creativity are inflected by gender, race and national identity. Assignments include weekly readings and film viewings and one short paper; optional documentaries and films are also available.