Film & Music: History & Appreciation   

By the end of 1966, the world of music was undergoing a dramatic transformation. What had once been known as "rock and roll" was now simply called "rock," and the genre was branching out in exciting new directions. Bands were experimenting with sound, giving rise to subgenres like folk-rock, psychedelic rock, blues-rock, and hard rock. Supergroups such as Cream, Led Zeppelin, and Crosby, Stills & Nash began to dominate the scene, captivating audiences with their innovative styles. The years that followed, from 1967 to 1971, marked an era of extraordinary creativity. Artists like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Joni Mitchell, and Bob Dylan pushed the boundaries of what rock music could be, introducing listeners to progressive rock, funk rock, and country rock. Each new sound reflected the spirit of the times—restless, imaginative, and eager to break free from tradition. This class invites you to step into the pivotal year of 1967, a turning point in rock history. Together, we’ll explore how the innovations and experiments of these years set the stage for what many consider to be the greatest moment in rock: the legendary year of 1971.

This class will explore the complexity and genius of Gene Hackman. Whether playing morally gray policemen, quiet outsiders, or explosive villains, he brought an unmatched intensity to every role. This session explores Hackman’s extraordinary body of work, from The French Connection and The Conversation to Hoosiers, Unforgiven, and even his unexpected comedic roles. Through curated film clips, historical context, and guided class discussion, we’ll unpack how Hackman broke leading-man conventions, how his performances reflect the anxieties of 1970s American cinema, and why he remains one of the industry’s most respected actors.