Documentary Film

This course reviews the historical development of documentary films and explores the ethical responsibilities of the documentary filmmaker, the use of the camera as a tool of political and social activism, and the role of documentary as an art form. Analysis proceeds from close examination of a variety of films from international sources. Beginning with examples from the early years of film, we consider the impact of the transition to sound, the cinema verite movement of the 1960's, contemporary ethnographic cinema, and television documentaries. This course is equivalent to JRN 3280. Students will receive credit for either JRN 3280 or ENG 3280. These courses may not substitute for each other in the F grade replacement policy.