This upper-intermediate French language and cultures course has been designed to strengthen your French language skills through film study, emphasizing content, culture, and communication. Through a curated selection of films in diverse French-speaking contexts (with English subtitles available), you will explore the complex theme of identity across the global Francophone community. Delving into the varied cinematic landscapes of the Caribbean, Africa, Canada, and France, this course provides a dynamic platform for enhancing your knowledge of Francophone societies and cultures. The films tackle different themes such as (but not limited to) regionalism, gender, colonialism, and immigration, offering useful insights into the complexities of Francophone identities and experiences worldwide. In enhancing your French language skills, special emphasis will be put on listening comprehension, as well as oral and written expression. From reviewing advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures to analyzing films and cultures, every aspect of the course aims to deepen your linguistic and cultural competencies. No previous familiarity with film study is assumed or necessary.
Warning on Class Content: In order to pass this class, you must complete all of the readings & assignments and view all of the films. The works we explore in this class reflect contemporary life, including graphic and occasionally disturbing depictions of human bodily functions, violence, and sexuality. Because critical consideration and discussion of these works is required in order to pass this course, students uncomfortable with such content may want to consider an alternative class.