A monthly lecture series with Professor Richard Peña. Doha Film Institute is delighted to present ‘Watching the Classics’, an online programme where filmmakers and cinephiles can deepen their knowledge of film history. Presented by renowned scholar Richard Peña—Professor of Film Studies at Columbia University and Director Emeritus of the New York Film Festival—this series of lectures/discussions each focuses on an undisputed world cinema classic.

Doha Film Institute is delighted to present ‘Watching the Classics’, an online programme where filmmakers and cinephiles can deepen their knowledge of film history. Presented by renowned scholar Richard Peña—Professor of Film Studies at Columbia University and Director Emeritus of the New York Film Festival—this series of lectures/discussions each focuses on an undisputed world cinema classic.

In the monthly sessions, Professor Peña will present a given film within its aesthetic, economic, technological and social/political context, detailing each director’s formal techniques while teasing out the implications of these artistic and technical decisions.

To get the most from the programme, participants are recommended to view the films before each session, and all are readily available through various popular streaming services.

During the lecture, select images and clips will be included for discussion, and participants will be able to send Professor Peña questions, which will be addressed at the end of each session.

Topics to be explored each week include:

• The transition to sound cinema.
• The increasing role of governments in film production.
• The impact of World War II.
• The impact of notions of “realism” and “modernism” on filmmakers and audiences.
• Each week will also include a detailed analysis of that week’s selected film.
  

The sessions will take place on the last Thursday of every month—except in March during Qumra and November during Ajyal. The films to be featured will be announced at the beginning of the month.

Join them for a chance to revisit some of your favorite films—or to discover works that have helped change the course of film history!

Date and Timing: (Workshop Online)

• First Session
  Thu, Feb 24 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Second Session
  Thu, May 12 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Third Session
  Thu, May 26 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Fourth session
  Thu, Jun 23 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Fifth Session
  Thu, Jul 28 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Sixth Session
  Tue, Aug 23 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Seventh Session
  Tue, Sep 27 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Eight Session
  Tue, Oct 25 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Ninth Session
  Wed, Dec 7 - 5:30 pm
  
  
• Tenth Session
  Tue, Jan 17 - 5:30 pm

Eligibility:

This programme is open to applicants over the age of 18. The sessions are best suited for those with some knowledge of filmmaking and who wish to expand their understanding of film history.

Details:

• Language: English
• Fee: QR 70 per session
• Qatar Museums Culture Pass Fee: QR 56 per session
  - Qatar Museums Culture Pass members will receive a 20% discount on this lab’s fee. To avail of the discount, simply include a copy of your Culture Pass when applying.

Registration Process:

• Your registration will be confirmed once your payment is processed.
• Click here for the Payment link.
• You will receive all necessary webinar links via email reminders before the sessions.

For more information, visit Doha Film Institute's website.

Source and image credit: DFI

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