FILM 43.05 Truffaut and Godard
This course will examine the films, careers, and legacies of two critics and directors who were fundamental to the French New Wave and its legacy: Francois Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard. Each is an indelible figure in film and media history. The two were at first close colleagues and then diverged radically, both as filmmakers and as people. Considering their respective careers in relation to one another will place their films into new historical relief. We will survey the important body of film criticism that each produced before becoming a renowned director, along with historical and analytical writings about both. Most importantly, we will examine major films and other media texts (such as television programs) that each created. Our goal will be to understand the phenomena known as "Truffaut" and "Godard" in relation to the development of auteur methodologies, assumptions, and practices. We will also consider the broad international influence of both directors, especially in film form and style. In addition to in-class lectures and screenings, the course will include a range of online and reserve assignments (films, readings, discussions). Two short papers, a research paper, and a final exam will be assigned.