The Department of Cinema and Theater Studies mainly focuses on the Italian theatrical scene and on Italian cinema, offering historical surveys and examining both traditional modes and themes and more contemporary issues. Through films, students will be able to acquire a deeper perspective of topics related to European politics, Italian society, fashion, art, the Second World War, and the Holocaust.
3 semester credits. This course traces the history of Italian cinema from the 1940s to the present day. The evolution of Italian cinema is explored through an overview of the different genres of movies, from Neorealism to the commedia all'italiana, the spaghetti western, and the auteurism of the 1960s, 1970s, and in contemporary times.
3 semester credits. This course is designed to equip students with the tools necessary to critically analyze the art of film. Through in-depth study of various cinematic elements, including narrative structure, character development, cinematography, editing, and sound design, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how films are constructed and how they convey meaning. The course will explore different film genres, historical periods, and cultural contexts, providing students with a broad perspective on the evolution of cinema. By the end of the course, students will be able to understand the nuances of cinematic language and grasp the complex ways in which films reflect and shape society. Please note: This course requires mandatory film screenings during the semester.
3 semester credits. The focus of this course is contemporary Italian cinema from the 1980s up to the present day. The following films will be studied in particular: Tornatore's Cinema Paradiso, Moretti's Polombella Rossa, and Benigni's La Vita è Bella. All films will be discussed with reference to political, social, and aesthetic issues in contemporary Italy. Please note that film viewing hours are scheduled outside of the regular class times.