Japanese Cinema: Critical Viewing in a Global Context

Catalog description

This course examines several Japanese films and their significance in the contexts of Japanese and world cinema. Each film is analyzed using concepts from various disciplines such as film criticism, literary criticism, cultural studies, and anthropology. The unique and influential characteristics of each film, along with the styles of their auteurs, are identified, and their cinematic value is critically examined. Through the critical study of Japanese films, students will apply theoretical insights to analyze films more broadly. We will use examples in class, and students will be assigned to find additional examples for their paper. Thus, students are trained to critically identify the characteristics of Japanese auteurs and their influences on and from global auteurs. As a result, they are equipped with the skills to recognize and appreciate cinematic expressions, both in Japanese films and beyond. In turn, this deeper understanding will foster a greater appreciation of cinema in general. IIB. PA-3B, SI-04. CAS-B. Cross-listed with JPN 266 .