GERM 82.12 Topics in German Creative Writing: Re-Appropriating Identity in Autobiographical Film (in German)

A complex world demands that each of us constantly position themselves as a clearly identified “I”. For this, we often must first unlearn what we had been told about who we are or should be. This course introduces autobiographical film as a medium and artistic form for unraveling the externally imposed “I” and re-appropriating it.

Using simple filmmaking exercises, we will practice unbiased observation to trace the unknown, ignored or hidden aspects of our personal stories. Through examples of autobiographical films made by a range of international filmmakers, we will get to know various dramaturgical approaches and analyze modes of interactions between camera and protagonists. We will employ creative writing to reveal how each of our private and unique stories is always also part of a bigger narrative. Screenings will include films of Karim Aïnouz, Sarah Polley, Agnes Varda, Peter Lichti and Alejandro Jodorowski. The course will be taught by professional documentary filmmaker Ines Johnson-Spain.

Degree Requirement Attributes

Dist:ART; WCult:CI

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Department-Specific Course Categories

German Studies