Contemporary East Asian Cinema

COM FT 561

This course studies the astonishing artistic flowering of contemporary East Asian film, focusing on selected works from directors working in China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Thailand. We will focus on post-1997 films, though we will occasionally look back at earlier films that these directors made or that influenced them. The course aims to survey a variety of different genres, styles, and themes as we look closely at the significant output from key directors in these countries. Some of the notable directors we will discuss include Bong Joon-ho, Park Chan-wook, Lee Chang-dong, Zhang Yimou, Jia Zhangke, Ann Hui, Wong Karwai, Hou Hsiao-Hsien, Hirokazu Kore-eda, Hayao Miyazaki, and Edward Yang. Our discussions will deal with their styles and themes as auteurs, industry developments in Asia that have affected the kinds of films produced and distributed, and cultural values and history embedded within these films. A background in film/TV analysis, as taught in Understanding Film (FT250) and in other film/TV studies-oriented courses, will be essential. Prior knowledge of East Asian cultures, histories and language will help but is not essential. (The films will be screened in their native language whenever possible, with English subtitles.)

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the MyBU Student Portal for the most up-to-date course information.