Movies: More Than Just Sad
July 2023
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Introduction
Dive into the heart of cinema with MIT's Philosophy of Film course, where movies meet deep thought! Ever pondered if a movie can truly be sad, or is it all in our heads? Students tackle this and more, using films like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind as their philosophical playground. Led by the passionate Professor Justin Khoo, this class isn't your average film critique session—it's a journey through the emotional and intellectual landscapes that movies create. Ready to see cinema in a new light?
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Unveiling the Emotion Behind the Screen
Have you ever wondered what makes a movie tug at your heartstrings or leave you in stitches of laughter? The philosophical side of cinema delves deep into these questions, exploring how films can evoke such strong emotions and connect with audiences on a personal level. It's not just about what's happening on the screen, but how these stories resonate with our own experiences, beliefs, and emotions. For you, as a student stepping into the world of complex ideas and emotions, understanding the philosophical underpinnings of cinema can enrich your viewing experience and offer new perspectives on storytelling. This exploration can also sharpen your critical thinking and empathy skills, as you learn to see the world through the lens of diverse characters and narratives. Imagine dissecting your favorite movie not just for its plot, but for its ability to make you feel and think—this is the heart of cinema's philosophical journey.
Speak like a Scholar
Aesthetics
The study of beauty, art, and taste. In cinema, it refers to the visual and narrative elements that make a film appealing or thought-provoking.
Narrative
The structured storyline or plot of a film. It's how the events in the movie are organized to tell a cohesive story.
Empathy
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another. In film, it's what allows viewers to connect emotionally with characters.
Ethics
A branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right or wrong. When discussing cinema, it might involve the moral implications of a film's message or the behavior of its creators.
Non-fungible
Something unique that can't be replaced with something else. In the context of art, it refers to the irreplaceable value of experiencing a specific work.
Cinematography
The art of making motion pictures, focusing on how films are shot and the visual choices made to tell the story.
Independent Research Ideas
Exploring the role of music in evoking emotion in cinema
Investigate how different genres of music influence viewers' emotional responses to various film scenes. This combines elements of psychology, music theory, and film studies.
The ethics of representation in film
Analyze how different cultures, genders, or social issues are portrayed in cinema and the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers. This topic encourages you to think critically about societal norms and the power of media.
The impact of cinematography on storytelling
Examine how camera angles, lighting, and shot composition contribute to the narrative and emotional depth of a film. This project blends art, technology, and narrative theory.
Aesthetic value vs. moral controversy in appreciating cinema
Delve into the debate on whether it's possible or right to separate a film's artistic merit from the personal actions of its creator. This topic challenges you to weigh artistic appreciation against ethical considerations.
The evolution of special effects and their influence on viewer perception
Research how advancements in special effects have changed the way stories are told and received in cinema. This project would be a fascinating dive into the intersection of technology, art, and psychology.
