Politics and Film: Course Notes

Course Introduction: Politics and Film

Secret Word and Favorite Films

• The secret word for the tutorial is "George".
• Students are encouraged to share their favorite films, especially those related to politics, to provide references and ideas.

Politics and Film: A Broad Perspective

• Politics in cinema extends beyond politicians and government, encompassing any film with a political angle.
• Example: Pretty Woman is analyzed as a Cinderella story involving prostitution, reflecting societal views on the subject.

Defining Politics

• Politics relates to the individual and the community.
• Personal choices, like dressing a certain way, can be a political statement.
• Changing gender is a bold political statement that raises questions about rights, acceptance, and legal policies.

Community and Well-being

• Living in a community involves finding ways to coexist, respect each other, and ensure well-being.
• Well-being is a fundamental right of citizenship.
• Citizens need education, health, and a respectful community to thrive.

Course Overview: Politics and Film

• The course explores the relationship between politics and cinema.
• Cinema has been shaped by politics, and politicians have used it as a tool for communication.
• Films often address political ideas, including laws and community issues (e.g., abortion, internet security).

Tutorial Schedule

• Three tutorials: today, July 9, and August 6.
• Tutorials are strategically scheduled before the midterm and final exams to review material.
• The midterm covers the first five lectures, and the final exam covers lectures six to twelve.

Course Resources

• Important sections: syllabus, class schedule, and grading.
• Exam dates are available under the "grading" section.

Syllabus Highlights

• The syllabus outlines the course's objectives and expectations.
• Contact: Hudson Mora; contact via Google Chat.
• Academic Accommodation: Extra time is automatically added to online quizzes for students with accommodations.
• Course Content: Historical events in politics and film, theory, and film analysis.

Film Funding and Identity

• Films produced in Canada are typically government-funded.
• Exploring one's identity through cinema is a political act.

Key Resource: "Projecting Politics"

• The primary book for the course is "Projecting Politics," accessible for free via PDF.
• Class one uses chapter one, "Setting the Scene," which discusses the political intent of films.

Grading and Instructions

• Major grading components: midterm, response papers, and final exam.
• Teaching mode: lecture notes and Zoom meetings.
• Technical issues: contact Chang School IT.
• Accessibility: Lectures are subtitled.

Class Schedule Details

• The class schedule includes slides, video lectures, and film clips.
• Class one focuses on the film Wag the Dog and chapter one of the textbook.
• Video lectures explain the slides and film clips.
• Class two covers chapter two, "Political Messages," and the film Snowden.

Google Chat Communication

• Google Chat is the official communication channel.
• Use your TMU account to send messages.

Attendance and Bonus Marks

• Attendance is recorded via Google Chat. Include the secret word, "George," in your message.
• Three tutorials offer three bonus marks that can significantly impact final grades.

Grading Breakdown

• Exams: Multiple-choice questions, conducted online via quizzes.
• Response Papers: Written assignments.

Midterm Exam Details

• Online, multiple-choice questions.
• Covers slides one to five and readings one to six.
• Key film: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (recommended to watch in its entirety).
• Makeup test: Scheduled for the following Wednesday for those who score below 50%.

Preparing for the Midterm

• The course is intensive with two classes per week, so manage your time effectively.
• Complete each class weekly to avoid last-minute cramming.
• Video lectures and slides are complementary resources; choose your preferred order of review.

Response Papers

• Two response papers, each worth 15% of the final grade.
• Each paper requires a summary and critique of a video presentation.
• Presentations focus on interactive film and media, refugees, and ethics.
• No outside sources are required.
• The first paper is due July 4, and the second is due July 25.

Final Remarks

• For attendance, send a Google Chat message with the word "George."
• Contact via Google Chat for any questions or issues.
• The course aims to reveal the embedded politics in films and their relevance to personal lives.