Film Appreciation: Superheroes, Monsters, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and More!

John Lizzi

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(537)

Each week students will gather to discuss and analyze a different film -- some modern, some from the past. As an ongoing class, a wide range of genres will be covered week to week. Make sure to check our schedule!

Class Experience

Are a huge fan of adventure, monster, fantasy, superhero and sci-fi films?  Are you looking for an environment to discuss your love for these films with your peers? Then this class is for you!  

Each class we'll discuss and analyze a different film (seek the schedule at the bottom of this section). We'll cover many of the following themes and concepts: story and character development, character motivations, script writing, film marketing, film development (casting, setting, practical...

Students will get the opportunity to hone their critical thinking skills, learn about film studies and film production, and practice having respectful conversations with their peers.

I'm a huge fan of movies and an amateur film buff, particularly in the genres of adventure, sci-fi, superhero and fantasy.  I love having conversations about movies and the filmmaking process.

As a teacher, I have extensive experience in managing classroom discussions of all ages and ability levels.  My goal is to ensure that every student has a chance to make contributions, provide their opinion, and/or demonstrate what they've learned.

Homework Offered
The only homework each week is to find time to watch our next scheduled film (see weekly schedule), and to be ready to share out your thoughts and questions. Most films that we watch are roughly two hours long. Note-taking is encouraged!1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Students will receive informal feedback from me in the Classroom chat, and before and/or after our class. Feedback will also occur during the class session as well.
Grades Offered

Subscriptions to movie streaming platforms (Netflix, Disney+, Amazon, etc.) are helpful in being able to watch the required movies for each. Absent that, most films can be rented online and streamed for approximately $4.00. Certain films may also be available for rent at your local public or school library.

All films that we will watch for class will be rated PG-13 or lower. For those films rated PG-13, almost always this is for violence and language. Many of the films will include themes of betrayal, revenge, and temptation. Please see the weekly schedule for the list of upcoming films, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Available times

Pacific

Table of available sections

Meet the teacher

John Lizzi

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(537)

**Profile updated June 2023**

Hello, Outschool students and parents! 

My name is John and I've been working as a history and social studies teacher at a public high school in Connecticut for the past eleven years.  I have three college degrees:...