How do films create meaning? Join Dr. Maggie Parke for a brief introduction to film studies through a hands-on exploration of the language of cinema. Serving as a preview of Lights, Camera, Meaning: A Film Studies Series—her ongoing exploration of film, television, adaptation, storytelling, and media culture—this session will draw on examples from her recent course to demonstrate how elements such as framing, editing, sound, performance, and visual storytelling shape our experience of a film and influence the stories we see on screen.

Dr. Parke will also introduce upcoming modules, including Adaptations (Film Language 2) and Film Structures (Film Language 3), and share how the series will continue to develop the tools and perspectives needed to watch, analyze, and appreciate visual media more deeply. Whether you're new to film studies or simply curious about how movies and television work, this showcase offers a welcoming glimpse into the craft, artistry, and meaning-making power of the screen.