Film Studies
Masters of Cinema: Billy Wilder
An introductory film studies course examining Billy Wilder’s storytelling, directing and dialogue through selected films, presentations, extracts and discussion.
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Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
The course examines Billy Wilder’s work as a writer-director, with attention to the storytelling and directing techniques associated with his films. It considers his use of dialogue, including collaborations with Charles Brackett and I.A.L. Diamond, and focuses on films featuring Jack Lemmon such as Some Like It Hot, The Apartment and The Fortune Cookie. Teaching combines tutor presentations, screened film extracts, textual analysis and group discussion. The course also places Wilder’s career within the wider context of American cinema and develops approaches to interpreting film.
What you'll learn
- Identify storytelling and directing techniques used by Billy Wilder
- Analyse Wilder’s use of dialogue and collaboration with screenwriters
- Explain key aspects of Wilder’s career and place in American cinema
- Apply film analysis and interpretation skills to a wider knowledge of cinema
Is this course right for you?
This introductory course is intended for learners developing an appreciation of American cinema and is suitable for people who enjoy viewing and discussing films. It does not assume previous study or reading, and participation involves presentations, film extracts, textual analysis and general discussion.
- No previous study or reading is assumed
- Includes discussion alongside film viewing and analysis
Before you go
- Bring paper and a pen, or a tablet or laptop for note-taking.
- Support materials are provided by the tutor.