Jumping The Quirk?: Style and Substance in the Films of Wes Anderson
Delve into the magical world of Wes Anderson, considering some of his greatest work and his fiercest critics along the way. This course takes students through a journey to discover one of our most significant contemporary directors.
Wes Anderson has long been recognised as one of the most distinctive and important filmmakers of his generation, with the BBC naming 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' as the 21st best film of the 21st century. But is he, as some critics have claimed, just primary colours and whimsy? Or does he have genuinely important things to say about society, masculinity and American culture? On this short course, students will explore Anderson's critics, his use of colour and music, and his exploration of mental health and family. No previous film studies experience necessary: just a passion for films and a willingness to dive in and discuss. This course is equally important for those who enjoy looking at film from an academic perspective, as well as those who simply have a passion for Anderson's work.
Course Content
7 LESSONS
7 HOURS Total Length
Lesson 1
Wes Anderson: An Overview
60 minutes
Lesson 2
'Hip to Be Sad': Melancholy, Mental Health and Trauma
60 minutes
Lesson 3
Soundtracks: Moving or Meaningless?
60 minutes
Lesson 4
Any Colour You Like: How Wes Uses Colour and Framing to Draw in (or Exclude) His Audience
60 minutes
Lesson 5
Parents and Children: Growing Up and Growing Old in Wes World
60 minutes
Lesson 6
'Fantastic Mr Fox': Adaptation, Animation and Tone
60 minutes
Lesson 7
'The Grand Budapest Hotel': The Greatest Film of the 21st Century?
60 minutes
Key Skills
Film Theory
Critical Analysis
Cultural Appreciation
Educator
George W
English Language Expert
George provides lessons to people with an already high level of English who look to improve on more advanced areas such as pronunciation, idiomatic phrases, phrasal verbs and even slang. George values building vocabulary and working on accents and has helped several people with IELTS and job interview preparations held in English.