Defining trends in U.S. cultural history between 1950 and 1999, as reflected in film. Topics include the re-introduction of realism, counterculture films, films by socially oriented and “new auteur” directors, and the impact of AIDS, relations between the sexes, and modern special effects. Aspects of cinema history are also examined, including the construct and use of certain genres, the relationship between cinematic realism and censorship, and the rise of independent film. Also offered as CSS 3175.