Course information

The course explores contemporary social issues, historical changes and shifts in traditional values that make Italy what it is today. Through the voice of important film directors like Fellini, Salvatores, Giordana, Sorrentino and many more, students will gain a deep understanding of the multifaceted and complex aspects of contemporary Italy and learn to critically analyze changes in society and culture through the lens of film.  During the course of the semester, they will gain a deep knowledge of key elements of Italian Culture and discuss themes fundamental for a full understanding of our culture and society, like family, social inequality, immigration, work conditions, north/south divide, mafias and more. The course is structured following a seminar format, which encourages class discussion and participation. Attendance to all classes and film screening is mandatory.

A week-end trip to Bologna and Turin to visit the restauration lab of the Cineteca di Bologna and the National Cinema Museum are included as an integral part of the course. We will also meet some activists belonging to the Cinema America movement and talk about their work. Finally, this semester you will also participate in a local film festival during the month of April so we will adjust our class schedule accordingly. Since the organization of the festival is not yet fully finalized there might therefore be some slight changes in our original class schedule. The festival will take place at the local Cinema Farnese and will include three film screenings and a q&a session with actors and directors. Please remember that these evening screenings effectively substitute our normal class hours, participation is therefore mandatory. For each of the three films you will also be asked to write a 2-3 pages review which will be due the following week and will count towards your final grade.