Chinese Contemporary Culture and Society

This course is the second part of an introduction to Chinese cinema, focusing primarily on films produced in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Students will explore a selection of films spanning various genres and themes, ranging from the 1980s to the early 2000s, including internationally renowned films, independent productions, and mainstream popular works, while also reflecting diverse customs and dialects. Through this exploration, students will further develop their fundamental yet comprehensive understanding of contemporary Chinese history, society, and its rich and varied cultural traditions and values. Each film will be analyzed within its historical, societal, and cultural context, considering both its aesthetic form and social content. Class meetings incorporate lectures, film screenings, discussions, and student presentations.