Introduction to film course description

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HUM 160: 

July 2013 

HUM 160 

INTRODUCTION TO FILM 

COURSE DESCRIPTION: 

Prerequisites: ENG 090 and RED 090

 or DRE 098;  or satisfactory score on placement test 

Corequisites: None 

This course introduces the fundamental elements of film artistry and production.  Topics include 

film styles, history, and production techniques as well as the social values reflected in film art.  

Upon completion, students should be able to analyze critically the elements covered in relation to 

selected films.  Students should also be able to effectively analyze films within their respective 

thematic and historical contexts.  This course has been approved to satisfy the Comprehensive 

Articulation Agreement for the general education core requirement in humanities/fine arts. 

Course Hours Per Week: Class, 2.  Lab, 2.  Semester Hours Credit, 3. 

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 

I.

Students will demonstrate an appreciation of movies as an art form with a special place in

the culture of America by:

a.

reading and researching different critical points of view;

b.

developing a critical eye to enhance their appreciation of film as an art form; and

c.

developing a critical sensitivity to the thematic and historical contexts of respective

films.

II.

Students will explain how movies work, both as business and entertainment by:

a.

discussing the evolving technology of films;

b.

analyzing the technical elements of films; and

c.

making educated judgments about quality in movies

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HUM 160: 

July 2013 

CORE CONCEPTS EXAMINED: 

A. Overview of history and purpose of film

B. Film and its structure

C. Cinematography

D. Production design

E. Editing

F. Sound design

G. Acting

H. Film theory and criticism: Realist and formalist, Psychoanalytic, Ideological, Feminist, New

historicist, Auteurist

I.

Research methods and tools

J. Film genres: Silent, Comedy, Drama, Western, Mystery/Crime/Detective, Horror/Thriller,

Science fiction, Others

REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS AND MATERIALS: 

To be selected by instructor. 

STATEMENT FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: 

Students who require academic accommodations due to any physical, psychological, or learning 

disability are encouraged to request assistance from a disability services counselor within the 

first two weeks of class. Likewise, students who potentially require emergency medical attention 

due to any chronic health condition are encouraged to disclose this information to a disability 

services counselor within the first two weeks of class. Counselors can be contacted by calling 

919-536-7207, ext. 1413 or by visiting the Student Development Office in the Phail Wynn Jr.

Student Services Center, room 1209.