Week 9 Lectures 2018

Week Nine :: August 18 – August 26

Documentary Film as Facilitator: Storytelling, Influence and Civil Discourse

With crowdsourcing, social media campaigns and new distribution channels, films aimed at effecting social and cultural change have found audiences unlike any time in the history of the art form. But how do we measure the impact of such films — from changing minds to changing policy? To close the 2018 season, filmmakers and film lovers gather for a weeklong festival featuring screenings and conversations in venues throughout the grounds, all alongside the Institution’s renowned lecture and arts programs. We consider the filmmaker’s role and intentions as artist, storyteller, journalist, advocate and activist; the business decisions that influence the distribution and marketing campaigns behind such films; and the effectiveness of films to create empathy — and prompt action — in its audiences.

Interfaith Lecture Theme :: The Intersection of Cinema and Religious Values

Religious values continue to be a potent influence in the minds of young, contemporary filmmakers in modern America. How have these filmmakers navigated the difficult and sensitive waters of religion to bring these films to the screen? What effects are these films having? In this week we will witness the power of the visual narrative to change hearts and minds.

Don't see what you're after?  The Week 9 lectures given by Ken Burns, Dayton Duncan, and Geoffrey C. Ward are not available for purchase.