Auteur Study · Film (Sch Of The Arts)
I learned a deep new cinematic language and knowledge to understand Polish film. That is, the films of Kieslowski, and I understand that this class was based on his works but I feel that his works are not divorced from his Polish upbringing. We stayed very close to the material, analyzing the music and angles and blocking of the films. I appreciated all the review work with the classmates, this cohort is very receptive and descriptive, every film should be seen multiple times to truly understand the brilliance.
You're not gonna learn "hard" knowledge about filmmaking, etc. in a course like this. It was a survey of Kieslowski's films with in-depth analysis on their themes, style, direction, music, cinematography, etc.
If one is a fan of Polish Cinema or Kieslowski there is no other class to take
After taking this course I believe anyone serious about studying film or wanting to make film should become familiar with Kieslowski's work. This class was a great way to do that. 1 Columbia University: Arts & Sciences Spring 2021 Course: FILMUN3010_001_2021_1-AUTEURSTUDY : FILMUN3010_001_2021_1 - AUTEUR STUDY Instructor: Annette Insdorf
I practiced close analysis and screenplay-to-film comparisons while learning about Kieslowski's directing style, editing choices, and historical background. I learned about the life and work of the Polish director Krzysztof Kieślowski. In addition to closely analyzing his films, which are of tremendous quality, the course provides great observations on religion and Polish society and government during his lifetime. By the end of this class, I felt like I greatly improved my film analysis skills through a combination of close-watching, discussion, and reading. Not to mention, improving my writing abilities because Professor Insdorf ensures her students will write in the best possible manner with attention to concise language and clear descriptions and analysis. I learned how Kieślowski upended and changed the cinematic landscape for the better. I learned how he mixed visuals and sound design to create pieces of quiet beauty. I also learned how to better write analytical essays.
I learned a lot about visual storytelling and the power of non-said in film through analyzing Kieslowski's work.
Insdorf is so knowledgable and wise when it comes to film analysis. Her grading is harsh but only because she is genuinely able to help students become better, more precise writers.
Definitely inspiring to me as a filmmaker, and I finished the course absolutely obsessed with Kieslowski's work. 1 Columbia University: Arts & Sciences Spring 2024 Course: FILMUN3010_001_2024_1-AUTEURSTUDY : FILMUN3010_001_2024_1 - AUTEUR STUDY Instructor: Annette Insdorf