This seminar will focus on the major films and film makers of the Soviet Union and Russia. As such it will trace the major artistic political cultural and social influences and movements that shaped and produced Russian and Soviet film. Students will view not only masterpieces of Russian feature films but also the best documentary films and animation that cinematographers and animators have produced over the last 90 years. In addition students will explore how the history and products of Russian and Soviet film are woven into the larger context of world cinema history and practice. At the seminar's conclusion students will understand not only the influence of Russian/Soviet cinema on the world stage but also the components of the films themselves that contribute to their notoriety and lasting appeal.