Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - CA 235 D100

Experimental Film and Video (3)

Class Number: 5136

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    One of CA 117, 118, 135, 136 or 137 or 30 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Surveys a range of historic and contemporary experimental moving-image works, with an emphasis on those that cross and transcend categories, create new forms and genres, reflect on the materiality of the medium, and express subjectivities in ways historically unseen in mainstream film.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will expose students to a range of experimental and artist-made films, drawing as much from contemporary voices as from elders of experimental film. Structured through a framework that is thematic rather than chronological, the course will emphasize works that have crossed and transcended categories, created new forms and genres, and expressed subjectivities, voices and histories that challenge our expectations of what cinema is and can be.  The works we view together will push us to collectively remap the possibilities of the moving image while exploring ways to locate ourselves and our experiences in relation to these complex works. The history of experimental film is vast, and this course will necessarily be limited in scope: we will look primarily at films made since the 1960’s, with particular attention on films made in the last few decades. The course will be structured around weekly collective viewings, discussions, readings. Assignments include a creative prompt, reflection journal, quiz and a final creative project.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Gain a deeper appreciation of the wide-ranging forms and possibilities of experimental film and video
  • Build confidence and find pleasure in experiencing, analyzing and articulating the nuances of experimental film in terms of form, content, and context
  • Explore the relationships between past and present experimental media forms and practices.

Grading

  • Creative Prompt 10%
  • Quiz 20%
  • Film Reflection Journal 20%
  • Final Project 30%
  • Participation 20%

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.