ARTS 251
The Personal Documentary Spring 2025
Division I D Difference, Power, and Equity

Class Details

In this course, we will survey the terrain of personal documentary in all its complexity–its marginal roots, and its current mainstream appeal. Examining a wide array of formal approaches from diary films, to archival excavations, to first-person odysseys, we will ask: what does it mean to tell a story that is personal, vulnerable, ethical? How to avoid predictability and narcissism, and instead use self-reflection productively? How do race, sexuality, class and gender inflect personal filmmaking? Major assignments will include 3-4 short videos; supplementary assignments include a daily diary, weekly film screenings, and 1-2 readings per week.
The Class: Format: studio
Limit: 12
Expected: 12
Class#: 3943
Grading: yes pass/fail option, no fifth course option
Requirements/Evaluation: preparation and participation; 3-4 short videos; daily diary; weekly film screenings, 1-2 readings per week
Prerequisites: 100 level video course or permission of instructor
Enrollment Preferences: sophomores, juniors, majors
Materials/Lab Fee: $250-$350 Lab and materials fees for all studio art classes are covered by the Book Grant for all Williams financial aid recipients.
Distributions: Divison I Difference, Power, and Equity
DPE Notes: This course will consider the role of race, gender and sexuality in representing personal experience onscreen.

Class Grid

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