A change in directors often means a change in direction on a film. Similarly, it may mean a change in perspective for ETSU’s film studies minor. Dr. Jennifer Barker, an assistant professor at ETSU of two years, has recently taken over the film studies minor as director and plans on bringing several changes to the curriculum.

“I’d like to open the program up to offer digital arts as well as film production,” says Barker, who earned her doctorate in English literature and film at Indiana University. “Film production courses would offer students skills in directing and producing film which would not only give them production experience but would also allow them to put together and show their films here on campus.”

Film production courses could also change the focus of the film studies minor, says Barker.

“The film studies minor currently has a lot of overlap with other programs here at the university,” says Barker. “Film studies courses focus on critiquing and learning the mechanics of film which relates to English courses that utilize literary criticism.”

Among the changes that Barker is striving to bring to the film studies minor is a new association with local film festivals and screenings. The newly formed State of Franklin Film Society is screening films at Real to Reel in Johnson City biweekly on Thursdays.

“I’m hoping that in the future they will screen films by ETSU students,” says Barker. “Once a year the Southern Appalachian Film Festival takes place in downtown Johnson City so that’s another venue for ETSU students to get some of their film work shown.”

Although it’s being renovated and is starting to be associated with local film groups, the film studies minor is a relatively unknown program at ETSU, says Barker. “Some students might not see how film studies can relate to their majors or career interests.”

“Film can offer a rich experience, be it through the study of film production or overall aesthetics,” says Sam Smith, 21, a junior who is majoring in English and minoring in film studies. “English majors have an advantage, especially those who seek to teach English, due to themes and critical approaches. Since film is one of the major mediums through which we express ourselves artistically and historically, any major would be complemented by the film studies minor.”

Film has a strong base in analytical and critical thinking, says Barker. “Those skills would benefit any student in any major.”

Smith is looking forward to the minor’s upcoming growth. “I’m definitely hoping for more guest speakers for the film classes,” Smith says, “so that they can offer their perspectives and backgrounds.

Author