CHIN 280 - Introduction to Hong Kong Cinema

Renowned for its dynamic storytelling, stylistic innovations, and rich tradition of genres, Hong Kong cinema stands as a unique cultural phenomenon that has long captivated both local and global audiences. This course introduces students to the pivotal themes, formal elements, and historical contexts that shape and define this vibrant cinematic tradition. From its inception as a colonial outpost to its present identity as a city on the edge increasingly under Chinese rule, Hong Kong has served as fertile ground for exceptional artistic creativity in film production. Meditations on time, identity politics, ethical codes governing the criminal underworld, and urban alienation are among the most salient themes explored, spanning a diverse range of genres, from martial arts and ghost/folkloric tales to triad films, socially conscious cinema, and works that defy easy categorization. The course delves into the works of influential filmmakers such as John Woo, Wong Kar-wai, King Hu, Ann Hui, Fruit Chan, Derek Tsang, and Wong Chun, among others.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group I
Instructional Method: Conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Cross-listing(s): LIT 220
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Understand how arguments can be made, visions presented, or feelings or ideas conveyed through language or other modes of expression (symbols, movement, images, sounds, etc.).
Analyze and interpret texts, whether literary or philosophical, in English or a foreign language, or works of the visual or performing arts.
Evaluate arguments made in or about texts (whether literary or philosophical, in English or a foreign language, or works of the visual or performing arts).