FS/HP 340A - Contemporary Spanish Film

This course offers an introduction to contemporary Spanish society through cinematic representation. The 1960s will serve as the starting point to provide a general overview of cinema under the Franco regime and to analyze subsequent historical processes, such as the transition to democracy, the 1980s, economic growth in the 1990s, challenges related to globalization in the 2000s, and finally, addressing the issues that affect present-day Spain. The course will explore a wide range of film genres (drama, documentary, experimental cinema, film noir, comedy, horror, etc.) in order to address cultural stereotypes, definitions of self/other, as well as notions of "nationality," historical memory, social differences, gender issues, inclusion, diversity, equality, etc. Through the analysis of the representation of these notions the student will gain intercultural competence and a deeper understanding of the social and cultural realities of their new surroundings. By the end of the course, students will understand that the country’s cinematic representation is linked to its political, social and economic evolution. Students will gain knowledge of the conceptual tools required to study cinematic texts, and basic concepts of film theory. By means of that knowledge and by a critical approach to the main subjects students will have a cross-cultural approach to Spanish society and history. This syllabus pays equal attention to female and male directors.