Japanese Film and New Media

Catalog description

Survey of Japanese film and new media in the twentieth century and beyond, with attention to changing cultural settings. Taught in English. JAPNS 121N Japanese Film and New Media (3) (GH;GA;IL) (BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements.This course is intended to provide an introduction to modern and cutting-edge forms of cultural production in Japan from the twentieth century to the present day. Prior study of Japan is not required and materials will be available in English. Students will learn about major technologies and forms of media, including film, manga, anime, and various forms of new media (cell-phone novels, blogs, MMOGs, IM, and Web 2.0 for instance). Readings and screenings will cover several artistic modes including formalism, historiography, documentary, period drama, and experimental works. The course, or individual units within the course, will be structured so that students develop an historical perspective, allowing them to understand the cultural contexts that have inspired the creative works under study. By examining Japanese film and new media with attention to changing cultural settings, students will investigate such topics as the relation between social institutions and the individual, the formation and expression of identity, changing gender roles and family structures, the impact of technological and economic trends on social structure, and changing climates of censorship and freedom of expression. In addition, students will learn to think critically about various media's techniques and aesthetics of representation, and will become more engaged, critical spectators of film and related media. Class work includes some lecture but emphasizes guided discussions, group work, writing exercises, and some student presentations. This participatory approach is intended to deepen students' appreciation of the works, to help them understand value systems that may differ from those predominant in western cultures, and to assist students in developing both analytical and expressive abilities. Through critical reading, group discussion and interpretive writing, students will hone skills for evaluating modes of cultural production and consumption in modern Japan. The course is designed to be suitable for all students generally interested in Japan, or interested in various fields of humanistic study, whether or not they have previously studied the culture of Japan.