Film 101

Cinema, often referred to as the “seventh art”, is a language. Like literature, painting or music, films communicate through a rich vocabulary of deliberate choices that shape how we experience stories, emotions and ideas.

Over the course of this series, participants will be introduced to fundamental elements of film language, developing the tools to better observe, analyze and discuss the craft of cinema. Each session focuses on a single element, illustrating how filmmakers use it to create meaning.

Every screening begins with a short introduction to contextualize the topic, followed by a feature film. Participants are then invited to continue the conversation in the cinema lobby to encourage further analysis and meet fellow cinephiles.

Each lesson also includes optional readings and viewing recommendations for those wishing to explore the topic in greater depth. No prior knowledge of film studies is required.

By the end of the series, participants will be able to:

• Recognize key elements of cinematic language.
• Describe how filmmakers use formal techniques to create meaning.
• Develop a vocabulary for discussing film beyond plot and performance.
• Analyze films through close observation of their visual and auditory construction.
• Participate confidently in conversations about cinema.
  
  Click here to download the syllabus.