Weekend College Course
Famous Films: Viewing Values in Society
Instructor: Frank Murray
Description: Films are more than mere entertainment, and this course will look at six classic American films that combine high artistic merit with a strong set of social meanings. Recent movies on social and political values have been marked by the contrast between the cynicism arising from a loss in faith in American ideals (post Watergate, Irangate, Monicagate, etc.) and a resurgence of the desire for the simpler values of an earlier era of innocence and personal integrity. The films in this course explore a range of issues and values from recent American experience, with echoes that go back to the issues of the 60's, 70's, and 80's. Participants in the class will be expected to view each movie in the week immediately before the class, then during the class sessions discussions will focus on how to appreciate both the artistic methods and the social messages. All films should be easily available at local video stores.
Time: 6:00 to 8:00pm
Dates: Wednesdays, February 10 and 24, March 10 and 24, April 7 and 21
Fee: $192.00 (cost of reader/books not included)
Registration deadline: February 3, 2010
Instructor bio: Frank Murray (SMC faculty page)
To Register:
Contact Grete Stenersen,
Weekend College Director,
Phone: 925/631-4162
Email: gsteners@stmarys-ca.edu
