Wednesday, 2-4pm
The goal of this course is to illuminate recent history by showing films that depict the lives of people caught up in the important events of the 20th century. Through historical dramas and satires such as Gandhi, The Third Man and Dr. Strangelove, major issues of the last century are brought to life. Other film showings will include From Here to Eternity, Bridge on the River Kwai, Casablanca, Karen Silkwood, All the King’s Men and The Young Lions, by directors such as Kubrick, Lean, Zinneman, Reed, Huston, Ford and Welles. Highlighting the drama are stars such as Humphrey Bogart, Joseph Cotton, Orson Welles, Marlon Brando, James Cagney, Ingrid Bergman and Meryl Streep. These cinematic visions allow a fuller interpretation of a century of great innovation, revolution and conflict. Commentary and analysis of the films and their historical context will follow film showings.