The course is meant as an introduction to the history and culture of Latin America through films made in Latin America. The films range over a large span of Latin American history (at least since the area arguably became “Latin America,” from the time of the European invasion beginning in 1492 to the present). We will learn about Latin American culture, politics, history, and identity as well as examine how movies can be used as a tool to understand their subtext and to read films critically inside of the social context of each country. We will watch contemporary films (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia), as well as documentaries that scope the political landscape (Chile) and drama addressing gender and identity (Cuba). This course is taught in English.