FILM 3520 - Documentary and Social Justice

This class explores the nature of advocacy documentary, how filmmakers address social issues, and how the medium can give voice to people often unseen and unheard. The course combines critical viewing skills with practical production techniques. Students learn through community engagement, partnering with non-profit community organizations committed to social justice and social change to create a short documentary. by telling the organization's story through the voices of the people it serves, the films provide non-profits with valuable tools they can use in their communications, outreach and fundraising. In the process, students get real-world experience in documentary production.