Fascism, Film and the Art of Forgetting

The relationship between politics and American cinema is long and complex, but at its core rests the fundamental idea that stories matter. Film can both reveal, and popularize, political perspectives and trends. From early efforts at film censorship to contemporary conversations about Barbie and Oppenheimer, film in the United States has always been a space in which political ideas are contested. The focus of this lecture will specifically be on one of those contested ideas: fascism. From early films such as Birth of a Nation and Gabriel Over the White House, to contemporary films such as Batman and Pinocchio, the treatment of fascism in film can tell us much about where we've come from, and where we might be going.

Aaron Heresco, PhD, is a first generation college student who grew up in central Pennsylvania. He attended Penn State Altoona for his undergraduate degree with plans to work in international affairs. After taking two years off after graduation, Heresco decided to pursue a post-graduate degree in communication, focusing on news cultures and practices where he developed a passion for understanding the relationship between communication, media and power. These interests have led him to research issues ranging from campaign finance coverage, television representation of masculinity, financial literacy programs and the economics of television production. 

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people 50+ years of age, seeking intellectual stimulation through university level courses (without the pressure of grades) for the sake of learning and social engagement.

Registration required.

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Register by Feb. 12 at 3 p.m.