Film Program at University of Michigan

The film program at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is one which places a significant emphasis upon the theoretical aspects of the craft of film making. This approach is generally seen in national film programs at other universities, but it tends to wane as students progress in their studies. At the University of Michigan, this approach is maintained during a student’s full four years at the school.

For their introductory courses, students have a choice between the Art of Film and the Introduction to the Moving Image. Both classes will teach students to appreciate the aesthetics and theoretical concerns of historic film makers. Students will also gain an appreciation for the modern storytelling.

After this broad introduction, students will continue to study critically acclaimed films in courses which cover both American and International films. The final class in this cycle of criticism is Film Theory and Criticism. This class analyzes film criticism and the various approaches predecessors have taken towards this medium.

The hands-on portion of the curriculum begins with the Introduction to Film, Video, and Television. In this class, students gain experience with every level of production. Students are expected to utilize their critical studies background during this experience. Their critical background will help them to identify artistic methods and innovative expressions to make their films exciting.

Students who are enrolled in the program have access to resources which will help them along their journey to producing high quality 16mm films. At the Frieze Building, students can use the 30 X 45 sound stage, film editing suites, and audio production and mixing studio to complete the post-production on their films. These editing suites house multiple Avid machines.

To ensure that students have some grasp of the film world that is awaiting them, the University of Michigan initiated the James Gindin Visiting Artist Series. This program brings industry professionals to the campus to lecture students on their climb to the top of their field. With this series, these professionals will also work closely with students to give them feedback and pointers which the students can later use during the making of their films.

During the final weeks of the school year, there is a screening of the best student work produced that year. This screening is a major campus event which draws a diverse audience. Here, students are allowed to view and digest their peers opinions of their creative output.

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