Three Classic Films from Agnès Varda

About this course

The course examines Cléo de 5 à 7, Vagabond and The Gleaners and I, using them to explore Varda’s filmmaking, feminist position and relationship with the French New Wave. It also considers the social and cultural changes reflected in her work, the range of forms across her career, and the role of digital technology in her later practice. Teaching takes the form of informal lectures and talks, with questions and discussion supported by extracts from Varda’s films.

What you'll learn

• Analyse three significant films by Agnès Varda
• Explain Varda’s significance as an internationally recognised female filmmaker
• Distinguish between the dramatic and documentary forms represented in her work
• Evaluate Varda’s relationship with French culture, society and the French New Wave

Is this course right for you?

Listed for all levels, the course is intended for learners who want to examine Varda’s films in an informal lecture and discussion setting. Participation involves considering questions raised by the films and their historical, cultural and artistic contexts. Some extracts are in French with subtitles.

• Film extracts discussed on the course include subtitled French-language material.

Before you go

• Bring a pen and paper, or a laptop or other device for taking notes.
• Handouts and other course materials are provided.