Feminist Documentary Filmmaking: Theory and Practice

Catalog description

This course explores the intersection of feminist theory and documentary filmmaking as both critique and creative practice. Students will examine how feminist documentaries challenge dominant modes of representation, center marginalized perspectives, and resist objectification and narrative closure. Weekly screenings will include canonical and contemporary feminist films that foreground questions of gaze, identity, voice, and authorship. Alongside theoretical exploration, students will gain hands-on experience in filmmaking using accessible technology (Smartphones). Practical modules include planning and conducting interviews, storyboarding, ethical filmmaking, cinematography, and basic editing. Prior feminist theory knowledge or filmmaking experience is not required.