This course will explore the history and development of Czech film in the twentieth century. This is not a chronological history of Czech film, but rather a discussion and analysis of films in the following categories: historical, political, lyrical, realist, comedy, literary adaptations, animations, fairy tales (pohádky), Second World War, surreal / avant-garde. We will watch excerpts (with English subtitles) from a number of films from each category and discuss content, film-making techniques and other aspects of the films.

The films have been chosen so that wherever possible students can watch the complete versions either on DVD or on streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube, Kviff.tv and others. More information on this will be provided at the start of the course.