Film and Politics of the Masses

On the one hand, film as a popular medium with its potential for public accessibility and distribution always claims certain democratic features and, thus, a political entitlement for the masses. On the other hand, this medium can also fall into a realm in which Walter Benjamin calls, “[aestheticized] politics,” whereby film itself becomes instrumentalized for state manipulation and control. This class will examine a variety of films from different geographical regions and historical contexts, and seek to understand how their forms, styles, and narratives might disrupt, invigorate or even mythify certain ideas, roles and images of the masses. By linking our interest in the masses to our film analysis, we will also question the idea of political engagement: what does it mean for the masses to participate in politics via this medium?, how does the understanding of film, either as a popular mass medium or as art, shape the way in which the masses position themselves politically, both in national and international contexts? Films and readings in this class will help us explore these questions while letting us challenge not only the potentials of this medium, but also our understanding of what democracy promises, and of possibilities for political changes that arise from this medium itself.

Satisfies General Education Requirements:

• Group-Satisfying: Arts and Letters
• Multicultural Courses: International Cultures (IC)