Not all College of Arts and Sciences film offerings are tied to academic courses. Here’s a sampling of other College activities that celebrate film.
Science at the Movies pairs popular films with short lectures by scientists who discuss the probability—or more often, improbability—of the science in the featured film. Organized by Mary Harty, adviser in the Department of Chemistry, this annual event attracts a standing-room-only crowd of more than 300. Most attendees are chemistry students, although the event is open to the public. Past film selections have included Blade Runner, Gattaca, and The Day After Tomorrow. “Students often associate chemistry with difficulty,” says Harty. “This is just for fun. At best, I hope this helps students think critically about how science is portrayed in films.”
Soc Cinema also pairs films and speakers, with an emphasis on sociological issues. Organized by undergraduates in the Sociology Student Association (SSA), the event—targeted to undergraduate sociology majors—is held once or twice per quarter. “It gives students a chance to practice thinking sociologically about race, gender, class, stratification, and other issues,” says SSA president Marianne Goldin. “It also provides a fun way for students to socialize, which is important in such a large department.” Recent offerings have included critically acclaimed films Crash and Babel.
Several film series, open to the public, are offered by A&S departments throughout the year. In May 2008, French and Italian Studies (FIS) presented a series of five films in the HUB Auditorium through its French and Francophone Film Festival. “This film series, organized by our graduate students, has provided a wonderful opportunity to bring together students and community around current issues of concern to all,” says Albert Sbragia, chair of FIS. “We look forward to offering it again next spring.”