Fridays, October 10, 17, 24, 31 November 7, 14
11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

This course explores the groundbreaking collaborations between John Cassavetes and Gena Rowlands, two of independent cinema’s most influential figures. Cassavetes revolutionized American filmmaking with raw, character-driven storytelling, while Rowlands’ deeply expressive performances are among the most mesmerizing in film history. The course examines Cassavetes’ unconventional filmmaking methods, such as handheld cinematography, long takes, and spontaneous performances. The course also analyzes Rowlands’ emotionally intense acting in landmark roles such as A Woman Under the Influence (1974), Opening Night (1977), and Gloria (1980). And finally, the course explores the collaborative nature of Cassavetes’ productions, his rejection of Hollywood conventions, and his lasting impact on contemporary filmmaking.

Heather Brown holds a PhD in English with a concentration in rhetoric and composition from the University of Maryland.