MDIA 343 The Blockbuster Film
This course examines the phenomenon of the Blockbuster film. From the earliest instances when the term was applied to contemporary examples, the course seeks to understand the cultural, industry, and social forces that shape and are in turn shaped by the blockbuster film. In so doing, its asks a number of questions such as: how are different experiences and embodiments depicted in Hollywood films? How does Hollywood narrativize the U.S. in global politics? How do Blockbusters address political and social problems while managing to entertain? Screenings will include a range of Blockbuster films such as Die Hard, Harry Potter, Fast and the Furious, Back to the Future, Mad Max, Dark Knight, Toy Story, and six additional screenings to be determined by class vote.