Cinematic Expression: Methods, Sketches

Catalog description

In this intensive course, Film and New Media majors will define a research question and explore different iterations of the same theme through different modes of film making. These iterations will be in the form of sketches where students will be encouraged to experiment the same set of ideas/subjects/narratives using different combinations of the tools at their disposal. Different formal choices will lead to entirely new set of explorations and meanings embedded in the same theme. This course attempts to blur boundaries between documentary and narrative film, conceptual and emotive cinema, art and communication. Students are encouraged to reflect on 'what' they want to express and 'how' they intend to express this. But the key motivation for the assignments is to lead students to addressing the question - 'why'. Why am I making this image and what is my relationship with and responsibility towards this image - this is the core concern that students will grapple with. Students are encouraged to locate their research question within Abu Dhabi or the UAE.