Film Studies Update

Welcome to Week 3 Roadrunners!

Last week we finished our first film – The Social Network – directed by David Fincher, written by Aaron Sorkin. In watching the film, we discussed character, story, plot, cinematography, all the things that make a film a film. The way in which Sorkin writes his stories sets up our focus for this week:

The Screenplay

We’re going to be looking at how to write a screenplay, examining dialogue and action, to understand where a movie starts and how to bring it to life. We won’t be watching a full feature in class this week, instead we’ll be be viewing clips and scenes on YouTube and Instagram (from an account called Screenplayed that shows a scene while displaying the screenplay) that examine dialogue, action, theme, subtext, and symbolism.

I am having the students watch film outside of class, so if you happen to see them watching a movie and they say it’s for class it may be true 😛 However, they should be taking notes on their observations.

Additionally, I gave each student the film list for the course to have signed and returned as homework. I have had some parents reach out with concerns about certain films or types of content so I wanted to assure you the list is flexible. Any objectionable film I’ll cut out and work around. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns about specific films.

What’s new with Mr. Dudek?
I forgot to do this with my first email, but those who may have had me before know I like to share what’s going on in my life. This weekend I took my daughter out on a daddy/daughter date for treats and some 1-on-1 time. My dad was in town from Illinois so we went out to dinner at Barrio Queen over in Tempe and took the kids to Riverside Park for some fun.

Have a wonderful week!
Mr. Dudek
PDudek@Santancs.com