Spring 2006

WGS 345 • 28-Cult Movies and Gender Issues-W

Course Description

This course investigates a particular set of films grouped due to audience response to them. Cult movies present problems to the field of media studies, not the least of which is the apparent denial by segments of the audience of traditional standards of art and taste. Among the questions this course will explore are: What are the specific characteristics that define cult movies? What might be economic, psychological, and sociological causes for cult movies? How do subcultures or minority groups use, interpret, and evaluate cult movies? Are viewing and critical procedures for cult movies different than for noncult films? How do these phenomena relate to issues of gender and sexual orientation? What explains the development of the cult movie trend over the past two decades?

Grading Policy

3 or more 5 to 6 page writing assignments, with opportunity to have professor comment on drafts in advance and with extensive comments on actual final paper: 50% final grade

back