The Academy Award for Best Film is as controversial as it is coveted—everyone has an opinion, but few of us have votes. What are the criteria for choosing the “best film” of the year…and what should the criteria be? In this class, we will decide for ourselves with a deep dive into the major contenders: We’ll explore the narrative structures, photography, editing, and sound to understand what makes us love the film—or hate it! We’ll consider factors outside the film that may impact our choices. And importantly: how do the messages in these films—and yes, they all have messages! —speak to us and our times? (Warning: Watch the films first, because there will be spoilers!) Bring your opinions, and we’ll start from there!

Thursdays | Three sessions: February 12, 19, 26 | 1:00-3:00
In person and simulcast