F1219 Aspects of Japanese and Western Culture viewed through the Cinema (F1219)
Thursday 11.00-12.30
This course will examine some of the cultural differences that influence the way in which we view some of the important issues facing society. It will also consider how the cinema communicates and reflects those views, and the ways in which films can influence and shape our values. We shall consider how films are classified, and discuss what, if any, kind of censorship there should be, and how that censorship should be imposed.
Some fundamental issues facing society will be considered, such as freedom, privacy and government control; class-based societies and equality of opportunities; multiculturalism and racism; the influence of drugs; and the "permissive" society.
Teaching Method
The course will consider some films in depth that have a particular bearing on each issue. Students will be required to conduct individual research on the agreed topics so they might take an active role in classroom discussion activities. All students will be expected to make a presentation to the class (either individually or in small groups) on their chosen topic. It is hoped that students will be able to look at a film more critically and objectively, and consider the extent to which the underlying viewpoints and messages that a film conveys influences both the audience and the views of society as a whole.
Evaluation Method
Students will be required to produce both a mid-term and final paper. Credit will also be given for presentations of projects. Final grades will be dependent upon the course work and a final end-of-course examination. Regular participation and attendance is mandatory.
Evaluation
Readings