Decoding the Narrative: Analyzing and Interpreting 21st Century Films
Topic outline
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Course Title: "Decoding the Narrative: Analyzing and Interpreting 21st Century Films"
Course Description:
In this course, students will delve into the world of 21st century cinema, exploring a diverse range of films from various genres, cultures, and perspectives. Through in-depth analysis and interpretation, students will develop a deeper understanding of the key elements that comprise a story, including character development, plot structure, theme, and cinematic language. By examining films from the 21st century, students will gain insight into the ways in which contemporary filmmakers reflect, shape, and challenge societal attitudes, cultural norms, and individual experiences.
Course Objectives:
- Analyze and interpret 21st century films from various genres, including drama, comedy, sci-fi, and horror
- Identify and explain the core elements of a story, including character development, plot structure, theme, and cinematic language
- Develop critical thinking and close reading skills to evaluate the ways in which filmmakers use narrative techniques to convey meaning and emotion
- Explore the cultural, social, and historical contexts that shape the production and reception of films
- Cultivate effective communication and collaboration skills through class discussions, group analyses, and written assignments
Course Outline:
- Introduction to film analysis and interpretation
- Exploring character development: motivations, arcs, and relationships
- Unpacking plot structure: narrative patterns, conflict, and resolution
- Examining theme: social commentary, symbolism, and metaphor
- Analyzing cinematic language: cinematography, editing, and sound design
- Case studies of 21st century films, including:
- Blockbuster franchises (e.g. Marvel, Star Wars)
- Independent and art-house cinema (e.g. Wes Anderson, Sofia Coppola)
- Global cinema (e.g. Korean, Iranian, Mexican films)
- Films that challenge societal norms and stereotypes (e.g. representation, diversity, and inclusion)
Assessment:
- Class participation and engagement (20%)
- Weekly analysis and interpretation assignments (40%)
- Mid-term and final exams (20%)
- Final research paper or group project (20%)
Prerequisites:
- None, although prior experience with film analysis or literary criticism may be beneficial
Target Audience:
- Undergraduate students interested in film studies, literature, communications, or related fields
- Anyone interested in developing critical thinking and analytical skills through the lens of contemporary cinema
By the end of this course, students will have developed a deeper understanding of the art of storytelling, the language of cinema, and the ways in which 21st century films reflect and shape our understanding of the world around us.
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External content
Seeking a brighter future in megacity Manila, Oscar Ramirez and his family flee their impoverished life in the rice fields of the northern Philippines. But the sweltering capital's bustling intensity quickly overwhelms them, and they fall prey to the rampant manipulations of its hardened locals. Oscar Ramirez catches a lucky break when he's offered steady work for an armored truck company and gregarious senior officer Ong takes him under his wing. Soon, though, the reality of his work's mortality rate and the murky motives of his new partner force Oscar to confront the perils he faces in his new job and life. The movie portrays how far a man can go for his family.
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In 1945, the Marines attack twelve thousand Japaneses protecting the twenty square kilometers of the sacred Iwo Jima island in a very violent battle. When they reach the Mount Suribachi and five Marines and one Navy Corpsman raise their flag on the top, the picture becomes a symbol in a post Great Depression America. The government brings the three survivors to America to raise funds for war, bringing hope to desolate people, and making the three men heroes of the war. However, the traumatized trio has difficulty dealing with the image built by their superiors, sharing the heroism with their mates.
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The island of Iwo Jima stands between the American military force and the home islands of Japan. Therefore the Imperial Japanese Army is desperate to prevent it from falling into American hands and providing a launching point for an invasion of Japan. General Tadamichi Kuribayashi (Ken Watanabe) is given command of the forces on the island and sets out to prepare for the imminent attack. General Kuribayashi, however, does not favor the rigid traditional approach recommended by his subordinates, and resentment and resistance fester amongst his staff. In the lower echelons, a young soldier, Saigo (Kazunari Ninomiya), a poor baker in civilian life, strives with his friends to survive the harsh regime of the Japanese Army itself, all the while knowing that a fierce battle looms. When the American invasion begins, Kuribayashi and Saigo find strength, honor, courage, and horrors beyond imagination.
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