FYS 54 Writing Tooth and Nail: Los Angeles Film and Literary Noir
Are you sick of happy endings, sunny skies, and “likeable” characters? Then enter into a world that celebrates dark clouds, shady people, and a trail of physical and psychic casualties. Welcome to film and literary noir. In this class, you’ll watch a slew of films, old and new, that paint a less than wholesome picture of Los Angeles. You’ll read stories that feature dead-end alleys, nihilistic detectives, and dangerous love interests. Then you and your (assigned) team will make a short film of your own, from which you’ll build a thoroughly researched case for your place in the noir canon. An optional field trip to troubled Hollywood destinations will likely also be on offer. The Wednesday lab (required) provides time and space for production meetings and film workshops. Note: This class features literature and films that are violent and/or disturbing. Email the instructor at elamj@oxy.edu if you’re concerned about the content. Open only to first-year frosh.