Cinema
7 courses · Chaffey College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
CINEMA 20 Screenwriting - Cinema
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32-36 Lecture, 48-54 Laboratory
- Transfers to
- CSU
Comprehensive overview of screenwriting for motion pictures and other cinematic formats. Students employ writing theory and critical analysis of classical literature to formulate story ideas, develop storytelling techniques, arrange narrative structures, and write polished screenplays. Various screenwriting software applications are utilized to format, chart, outline, storyboard, and write dynamic stories for motion pictures. Overview and examination of historically excluded cultures, ethnicities, gender, and persons of color that are disproportionate to the real-life U.S. population. This course combines the art of screenwriting with A.I. assistance. Students will explore how A.I. can aid in script analysis, idea generation, and even character development. They will gain insights into how to integrate A.I. into the creative screenwriting process while preserving the human touch.
CINEMA 22 Introduction to Media Writing
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32-36 Lecture, 48-54 Laboratory
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introductory course in writing for motion pictures, television, documentary and other electronic media formats. Emphasis on preparing screenplays using industry standard writing formats, including technical, conceptual, and stylistic issues related to writing fiction and non-fiction screenplays for industrial and entertainment purposes in television and electronic media. In this course, students will discover how artificial intelligence can augment media writing. They will learn to use A.I. to analyze data, trends, and audience insights to inform their writing and reporting. Students will also explore A.I. tools for content generation and optimization, enhancing their skills as media writers.
CINEMA 25 Survey of World Cinemas
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Historical introduction and development of motion pictures as an art form through the study and viewing of international works of cinema. Overview of early silent motion pictures and major cinematic movements: German Expressionism, Soviet Montage, Italian Neorealism, Postwar Japanese Cinema, French New Wave, and other culturally diverse and innovative cinemas across the world. Examines the semiotics of both the visual and sound elements portrayed in world cinema. Explores the representation and contribution of women and people of color, including significant producers, directors, writers, cinematographers, and actors, from diverse cultures and governmental systems. This course provides students with a global perspective on cinema history, complemented by A.I. analysis. Students will use A.I. algorithms to study international film movements and their impact on world cinema, gaining a deeper understanding of cultural influences.
CINEMA 26 Survey of American Cinema
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Analysis and discussion of the portrayals of African Americans, Asians, Latinx, Native Americans, and other American national cultures including representations of class, gender, and issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Historical overview of the birth of American cinema, silent movie classics, silent comedies, and the story structure of the hero's journey. Areas of study include: the early women pioneers, such as Alice Guy Blaché, westerns, gangsters, musicals, science fiction, film noir, animation, American independent features and short movies. This survey course on American cinema history incorporates A.I. insights to enhance students' understanding of film evolution. A.I. analytics and content recommendation systems will be explored to uncover patterns and trends in American cinema over the years.
CINEMA 30 Beginning Motion Picture Production
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32-36 Lecture, 48-54 Laboratory
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- FTVE 150
An introduction of the theory, terminologies, and processes of motion picture production for broadcasting and streaming media outlets. Basic understanding and application of black & white and color film stocks, f-stop exposures, reflected and incident light meter systems, camera composition, lighting, location sound, audio mixing, and editing. Screenwriting and classic movie-making techniques are combined with the use of the Pro 8mm movie camera, emulating motion picture footage through the use of mobile devices, filtering apps and other media technologies to achieve a 'cinematic look' to assigned projects. In this course, students will explore how A.I. innovations can be integrated into motion picture production. From autonomous drones for cinematography to predictive analytics for film marketing, students will gain insights into the broad applications of A.I. in the film industry.
CINEMA 80 Producing for Broadcast and Cinema
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
An in-depth exploration and discussion on producing media content for the broadcast and cinema industries. Topics include various programming in the radio, television, motion picture, streaming services, corporate, and entertainment industries. Students create professional cover letters and resumes. Prepares students to plan and achieve educational and career goals in the media and entertainment industry. Students will explore the role of A.I. in producing content for both broadcasting and cinema. They will learn how A.I. can optimize production schedules, assist in budgeting, and even help in casting decisions, ensuring efficient and successful productions.
CINEMA 96 Internships in Cinema, Television, or Radio
- Units
- 3
- Prerequisite
- Completion with a C or better in: CINEMA 30; CINEMA 80; BRDCAST 55; BRDCAST 60; BRDCAST 62; BRDCAST 67; BRDCAST 70 or BRDCAST 74
- Transfers to
- CSU
Supervised field experience in motion pictures, television, radio, cable station, or other business related to the field of broadcasting and cinema. Course is designed to apply knowledge and learn new skills outside the normal classroom environment. Placement is initiated by student and arranged through the instructor. Participation requirements may vary with internship field work and job duties. This course requires 162 internship hours during which students will work with industry professionals and gain practical experience in broadcasting and cinema. They will have the opportunity to apply Artificial Intelligence (AI). applications to real-world projects, from content recommendation algorithms to audience analytics. Students will critically evaluate how AI technologies influence narrative structure, production workflows, distribution strategies, and audience interaction. Emphasis will be placed on responsible and ethical AI integration within professional media practice, including transparency, data privacy, and intellectual property standards.