The course focuses on representations of contested historical events in documentary cinema and combines theoretical and practical approaches. It aims at introducing students to the basics of analyzing and producing moving images that make use of historical arguments. The theoretical part of the course surveys classical and experimental documentary films and addresses mechanisms of constructing historical narratives by visual means. During class discussions we will analyze the use of first-person testimonies, found footage, and the role of editing and sound design in documentary films as means of storytelling. In the practical component of the course students will learn basic documentary filmmaking techniques such as project development and organization, camera work and documentary post-production techniques, and working in groups will complete exercises including a film film project to develop these skills. The students will learn to conduct documentary-style interviews, edit archival footage, and the basics of documentary cinematography. The course aims to develop analytical, rhetorical, visual, as well as a range of practical skills, including collaboration and communication skills. The course introduces students to the basics of visual literacy and develops their critical thinking and ability to design interdisciplinary research projects.
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