ComS 121: Media Aesthetics     Instructor: Jenny Stark
916 278 6285
Office Hours: Mon10-11 Tues Thurs 12:30-1:30
(916)278-6285
e-mail
 

Description:

Final's Week Office Hours: Tues-Thurs 11:30-!:00
Open lab times finals week Mon-Wed 3-5MND 3006
For additional lab time: Mariposa Lab Hours and Rooms

27A OPTIONAL FINAL IS ON WED MAY 14 MND 2009
27B FINAL CRITIQUE IS ON FRIDAY MAY 23 10:15AM MND 3006 (DVD's are due at the beginning of class-NO LAST MINUTE OPEN LAB TIME ON THIS DAY)
121 MEDIA AESTHETICS IS ON TUES MAY 20 AT 8 AM MND 1020
142 FILM AS COMS FINAL WED MAY 21 5:15 MND 1003
185 SENIOR VIDEO PRACT WED MAY 21 3-5 MND 3006

Overview and analysis of the primary aesthetic tools used to create messages in video and film. The basic properties of light, color, area, space, shape, sound, time and motion are defined and discussed as they relate to media production. Introduces students to the concepts and vocabulary necessary for effectively conceiving, producing or criticizing mediated messages.

Text: Film an Introduction: William H. Phillips

    

GOALS:
A greater understanding of the technical tools used by films and television.
A developed awareness of messages that are being communicated through films.
An enhanced ability to analyze films.


Format of the Class The course will consist of: Lectures Screening of Film Clips Discussions 2 Short Answer Exams Weekly Class Summaries
Class Etiquette
Here are a few rules for screenings and lectures: No talking (especially disparaging remarks about the films) No surfing the Internet or texting I would prefer that you do not eat during the class, but if you must please be quiet. Any violation of these rules will result in the student being asked to leave. (indicated by a tap on the shoulder by the instructor)  This will result in an absence:  See attendance


Grade Breakdown
Perceived Enthusiasm 10%
Weekly Summaries 40%
Midterm and Final Exam 50%        

Attendance –0-20 pts total:
4 unexcused –20 pts
3 unexcused –15 pts
2 unexcused -10 pts
1 unexcused –5 pts
0 unexcused –0 pts
                           

Blogs
Adam Carney
Ryan Gibbs
Shelbie Brassfield
Brandon Van Meter

   
Page numbers represent reading that should be done before the lecture    

1/29-1/31
Introduction to Course & Syllabus1/31 Chapter 1

2/5
Chapter 1
Mise-en-scène continued
ppt 1

2/7
Chapter 1&2
Mise-en-scène continued Cinematography
ppt 2
high key low key

2/12
Chapter 2 61-112
Cinematography

2/14 61-112
Cinematography continued
Screening: Film Lighting/Lighting for Video

2/19 113-157
Cinematography

2/21 113-157
Cinematography (Editing Montage)

2/26
Editing/Montage
PPT3

2/28 159-190
Editing/Montage

3/4 159-190
Film Audio

3/6 193-246
Narrative Structure

3/11 247-287
Narrative Structure
Screening of Run Lola Run

3/13 247-287
Narrative Structure
Screening of Run Lola Run

3/18 247-287
Discussion of Narrative Structure and Run Lola Run

    

   3/20 291-342
Genre and types of Cinema
( Clips)

3/25
Screening of OtherCinema

3/27
Screening of OtherCinema

4/8
OtherCinema Discussion

4/10
Midterm Exam (Through Narrative Structure)

4/15 345-372
Discussion of Test and Genre

4/17 345-372
Screening, Dog Day Afternoon, Sidney Lumet 1975

4/22 372-407
Discussion of Film, Genre Theory Continued

4/24 372-407
Documentary and Experimental

4/29
Documentary and Experimental

5/1
Documentary and Experimental

5/6 411-460
Documentary and Experimental
Begin Truman Show

5/8 464-544
The Truman Show

5/13 464-544
Film and Meaning

5/15 464-544
Film and Meaning (review)

Final: Finals Week