The Importance of Cinema Theory within WSU and the World

Abstract

<p>Wright State University's Motion Picture department is spilt into two degrees, one being production, and the other theory, history and criticism. Although students from each focus, interact, and take classes together, there is no actual blend of specific skills into one interaction. Every year the junior class production majors showcase their previous quarter's documentaries to the public, but there is unfortunately no event for an academic conversation between the two focuses. This presentation is an attempt to understand the importance of bridging the widening gap between two degrees within the same major. Using history, theory, and criticism of the documentary form I will examine the junior class's works in reference to their place within cinema art, the Motion Picture program, political movements, and society at large. In this attempt to understand the importance of the cinematic art form and how the department harnesses it, I will be using candid interview recordings of both students and professors to analyze the documentary works created. Along with using media to examine media, I will be referencing multiple accredited cinema and social theorists such as, Marshall Mcluhan, William Rothman, Slavoj Zizek, Judith Butler, and others. The importance of this presentation lies in my ability to both present how art reflects and affects the artist and the world. Without an examination of cinematic art beyond the theatre seat is it even art at all?</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 8, 2011</p>