New Course Explores Evolving Portrayal of Journalism on Film
BOSTON, MA – A new course launching in January will delve into the complex and ofen contradictory depiction of American journalism through the lens of cinema. “Meeting the Press: American Journalism in Cinema,” led by historian and educator Judi Freeman, will trace the evolution of journalists as characters on screen, from classic Hollywood portrayals to contemporary films, examining how these representations shape public perception of the profession.
The course arrives at a pivotal moment for journalism, as the industry faces increasing scrutiny and questions about its role in society. Participants will explore films like His Girl Friday (1941, directed by Howard Hawkes) and All the PresidentS Men (1976, directed by Alan J. Pakula),analyzing how they’ve both inspired and fueled skepticism towards the press. the course will also address the past underrepresentation of women and people of color within cinematic portrayals of journalism.
Freeman, author of ten books and a former art museum curator and educator at institutions including the National Gallery of Art and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, brings a unique interdisciplinary approach to the subject. She previously served as the Seevak Chair in History at Boston Latin School and holds degrees from Vassar, Johns Hopkins, Yale, and Tufts universities. She is currently writing a biography of Dorothy Thompson, a prominent American foreign correspondent and columnist (1893-1961).
“Meeting the Press” will examine the gap between cinematic image and the realities of journalism as the field navigates the challenges of the 21st century. Classes will be held on Wednesdays from January 7 through February 11,from 10:00 am to 1:15 pm,and are offered exclusively as a package,not individual sessions.
