2.5

Brandon Cesmat

Film - California State University San Marcos

2.5
Quality
2.5
Difficulty
44%
Would Retake
134
Reviews
2.5
Quality
2.5
Difficulty
2.4
Helpful
2.5
Clarity

44%

Would Retake

134

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
134 total ratings

5

16

4

24

3

21

2

37

1

36

What Students Say

The worst teacher I've ever had

GEW101 - 1.0 rating

Yes, he is boring and does talk an awful lot

GEW101 - 3.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

40%

Textbook Required

55%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 36 grades
Most common grades:
A (20)
B (5)
Not sure yet (4)
Grade Distribution
A(22)B(5)C(1)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(6)
Based on 41 reported grades
A: 20
B: 5
Not sure yet: 4
A-: 3
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (9)
EXTRA CREDIT (7)
Get ready to read (6)
Caring (5)
Clear grading criteria (3)
GROUP PROJECTS (3)
Inspirational (2)
SO MANY PAPERS (2)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.18 avg change
Jan
Apr
Dec
May
Dec
Apr
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

FMST100300

5.0

(1)

BOTH111

5.0

(1)

ENG136

5.0

(1)

CREATIVEW

5.0

(1)

FILM

4.0

(1)
+18 more courses
Difficulty by Course

FMSTSECT

5.0

AHL

5.0

FMST101

4.0

CREATIVEW

4.0

FMST10001

4.0

Reviews (133)
3.0
1.0
CRTVWRTG
Apr 4, 2003

Not very helpful as a creative writing instructor, unless he happens to like your work.

4.0
1.0
FMST300
Apr 21, 2003

talks ALOT. Graded very leniantly, was helpful if you needed it, gives good grades as long as you make an effort

4.0
1.0
FMST100
Aug 22, 2003

Enh, we sat around and watched movies, what more could you ask for?

1.0
1.0
FMST100
Oct 28, 2003

This guy is too busy worrying about his hair to teach! He lets you watch movies, and then tells you what to think about them. What a bore! How about letting the students think for a change? What a concept!

4.0
1.0
FILM
Nov 9, 2003

Pretty easy. gives alot of information if you pay attention. Loves to talk, so if you ask a question be prepared for an hour long answer

5.0
1.0
FMST300
Apr 7, 2004

Possibly the most fun class I've been in. From watching Amadeus to Fear and Loathing in LV, this class is informative, as well as being enjoyable... except for one French film that I won't mention by name. Actually the first film I've ever walked out.

3.0
1.0
FMST100
Apr 29, 2004

Class is easy, all we do is take notes every couple weeks and watch movies.

4.0
1.0
FMST300
May 4, 2004

The best was the FRENCH FILM!

2.0
2.0
FMST100
Nov 28, 2004

This class sucked, such a waste of time. Watched ALL boring films, they were either silent, black and white, or just ancient! Try to avoid this class.

4.0
2.0
FMST300
Dec 1, 2004

nice and helpful. liked the selection of movies, even though i didn't like all of the movies shown. i think it's good that he shows movies that we won't see otherwise and his selection was very diverse.

5.0
2.0
LTWR325
Dec 9, 2004

Great teacher and really made class fun. He was a bit scary the first day. After that he was really funny and overall enjoyable.

4.0
2.0
LTWR325
Dec 18, 2004

He is really helpful if you go to office hours. Plus, the final exam was to submit a story for publication. The paper wasn't graded, just the participation. Very easy.

2.0
1.0
FMST300
May 4, 2005

Nice while lecturing but rude in person and unnapproachable. Assignments are unorganized in the sense that he tells you the assignment the week before it is due! Talks waaaaaaaay to much and rambles on, often keeping the class up to 15 minutes after it's supposed to get out! Easy class though.

2.0
3.0
FMST300
May 10, 2005

Very unclear about expectations for the class, his assignments are out of date most documents on his website are dated 2002. He doesn't list any contact info in his syllabus with the exception of office hours held right before class.

3.0
2.0
FMST300
May 11, 2005

Very unclear with assignments but grades really easy. The class is easy and I didn't really go much. As long as you do the main assignments you will be fine. He does talk a lot though.

2.0
1.0
LTWR441
May 16, 2005

TOO MUCH JAZZ! He should incorporate other genres! If you take this class-just do whatever you want. If you follow the rules to a tea you end up not meeting expectations. Write in your journal more often than he asks (he'll give you xtra points for it) and do your final project about something YOU enjoy. This class made me hate jazz music!!!!

2.0
5.0
FMST100
May 22, 2005

Dr.Cesmat is kind of out there. He does not cover half the stuff on his exams(in the assigned readings on-line or in the textbook). On top of that he has no contact info and trying to catch him in his office is also a pain. My advice is read everything on his site whether it is for your class or not. If so you might be able to pull a decent grade.

4.0
1.0
FMST300
Aug 16, 2005

He talks forever about off the wall stuff, and it's hard to stay awake when he shows movies. If you turn in the major assignments you should be fine, I got a B. He had our class order the New York Times as our text book and it was horrible, half the class never got theirs. Didn't enjoy the class that much.

2.0
3.0
FILM300
Grade: A+
Aug 30, 2005

I was totally put off by his contract requirement for grading. If I don't want to screw over my GPA, I have to sign a contract that says I WILL get an A. But if I get a B in one of six sections (i.e. tests or homework), the contract states I will automatically get a D. What the hell kind of motivation is that? Would NOT recommend this guy at all!

2.0
3.0
FMST100
Sep 19, 2005

This guy spats out useless knowledge, which is poorly organized, and the guy does not shut up about his own political agenda.

4.0
3.0
LTWR
Sep 23, 2005

I loved Cesmat. There wasn't a whole lot of work...just a lot of reading. Which wasn't as big of a deal as I expected, because you can almost get away with reading about half what you were told to read and still do well. I loved the way he taught and the discussions that we had in his class. He was really interesting just to listen to. I learned a lot and I wish I could go back to SM and take his film class.

3.0
1.0
FMST
Oct 2, 2005

No Comments

4.0
1.0
FMST100
Oct 4, 2005

Enjoyable class..........

2.0
4.0
FILM300
Oct 25, 2005

STUDENT CONTRACTS!?!? These contracts are totally lame, and promote mediocrity. If you contract for an A, and get 89.999%, you fail the class! 2 OPEN BOOK TESTS and it didn't help at all. His lecture is very disorganized and quizzed us on stuff from his other class! Pay very close attention if you plan on taking this course. Contract for the B

2.0
3.0
FILM300
Nov 11, 2005

no contact info. oftenly boring lectures, but sometimes interesting. his contract is a dumb idea. he does know his stuff though and his class isn't too much hard work.

5.0
1.0
FILM300
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2005

Class is awesome. If you like watching movies and want a teacher that knows what he is talking about take this class. Sign the contract for the A or B it is easy. SHow up to class, and do the work and you get A, easy as that. FUN CLASS watch movies in class and talk about them.

3.0
3.0
FMST300
Jan 12, 2006

during class we watch movies but was boring, thought class would be easy A but its not...take another class. teacher knew what he was talking about but i wouldn't recommend the class as an elective.

2.0
4.0
AH111
Mar 6, 2006

No Comments

4.0
3.0
FMST300
May 30, 2006

I agree that this prof. can veer off on tangents, but the fact of the matter is if you show up to class, do the work, you're going to get a good grade. I think people complain because he expects students to think for themselves, rather than just give out answers. The test are hard if you don't study the lecture notes. I say take the class.

5.0
1.0
FMST100300
Jun 20, 2006

Stop crying about the student contracts. When I took this class I went for a B and attented the extra credit every week just to watch the movies, I ended up getting an A. You can't ask for an easier class than this, you watch movies, and then he gives you the answers to the assignments. The answers to the tests are all on the website.

3.0
1.0
FMST300
Jul 6, 2006

This guy knows cinema. Unfortunately, he doesn't really know how to teach. It's an easy class, but be prepared to study on your own since his lectures don't help. Also, forget about a syllabus or clearly outlined due dates and assignments. Sign your contract for an A and do the work, you'll most likely get one.

3.0
1.0
FMST300
Jul 20, 2006

Diddo with what everyone else said. Sign up for the A contract, and just do the work. I don't even think he reads the papers. As for the tests, many times he allows notes, and even if you don't do well, ask him for extra credit, and he will give you the A. An easy class, and the movies are interesting ones you wouldn't normally watch.

3.0
2.0
FMST100
Nov 6, 2006

terribly boring. teacher is a really cool guy when you talk to him 1 on 1. he really wants you to learn but his material is poorly covered and his tests are hard. he is nice but his class sucks

2.0
2.0
FMST100
Nov 8, 2006

cake.

5.0
1.0
BOTH111
Nov 29, 2006

I took both ARTS&HUMANITIES 111 and FILM STUDIES 101 with him. He is a great teacher. He is really chill, isn't strict about grades and stuff. If you do the work you get an A. AH was really interesting. He teaches with Avalos, but he does a good job. He grades easier. FMST is a trip. I liked it. Sign up for A, show up, do work...EASY!

1.0
5.0
FMST100
Dec 5, 2006

Please please please dont take this guy if you are just taking film for an elective. I'm taking him right now and it is so ridiculously hard and confusing. He is VERY unclear about everything and does not teach you ANYTHING. If you take him you must rely on your book to teach you everything because all you do in class is watch movies.. and thats it

2.0
2.0
FMST300
Jan 11, 2007

This teacher thinks he's pretty funny but he's a ****. People drink beers during his class all the time (that part's rad) but as far as him teaching you anything, forget about it. The tests he pulls questions out of his ass you've never seen before. I slept through every class because all you do is watch movies in a room with comfortable chairs.

2.0
4.0
FILM100
May 2, 2007

No Comments

1.0
5.0
FMST100
May 3, 2007

this guy is nothing like he was last semester. the only opinion thats the correct is his. he is rude and arrogant. he loves to hear himself talk. half the movies are boring, and you have to go to class because he gives 5 question worksheets worth like 30 to 40 points, and there is no way you are going to get a good grade.

3.0
2.0
FMST300
Jun 20, 2007

Ok this guy is VERY weird. He came to class every week acting like he was a wreck. VERY opinionated and takes it out on his students on tests if people stop showing up. BUT if you show up for the movies,get the worksheets & study those you can pass with an easy A. Your final is a group film that he lets you GRADE EACH OTHER ON!

1.0
5.0
FMST100
Nov 26, 2007

This class was by far the worst one I've taken at CSUSM so far. He is so unorganized and the 10 scene sketches he makes you do are a complete waste of time and he grades very hard on them. The tests are BS and confusing and the worksheets he gives after each movie are difficult questions that he marks you down on for everything. AVOID HIM!!

1.0
5.0
FMSTSECT
Dec 28, 2007

Don't be fooled and think you will just have to watch movies. We watched the most stupid movies and took ridiculous quizzes. He loves the sound of his own voice. I absolutely dreaded this class.

5.0
1.0
ENG136
Jan 5, 2008

Creative writing for the win! You can improve your writing in a stress-free environment. Beats writing essays! Poetry and short stories are the primary emphasis, but you'd be surprised how well it applies to essays and speeches. If you fully participate, you should ace the class.

2.0
4.0
FMST100
Apr 28, 2008

This guy is teaching first year film studies class like it's for people who love film. It's like he loves to hear himself talk, you can't ever approach him with a question because he will just ramble and not even answer your question. Everything's in group work so only a couple people do all the work and the others get the grade.

1.0
4.0
FILM100
May 1, 2008

i thought this class would be an easy A but boy was i wrong. He made the criteria super complicated and when you ask him for help he never gives you a simple answer. Also when you do your movie at the end of the semester its not really what you want it to be but more what he wants to see in it.

1.0
5.0
FILM300
May 22, 2008

WORST CLASS EVER!!!This guy is a joke! This was an elective class for me and treated everyone like it was their major! Picks out of date movies and thinks he knows EVERYTHING...he is cocky and arrogant! SHOULD NOT BE A PROFESSOR

2.0
4.0
FMST100
May 23, 2008

This is a 100 class, and we were treated like this was our upper division class. We had to make our own movie which was okay. The text was translated from Russian, so nothing makes sense and you're quizzed and tested on it. The first 2 movies were good, then after that it went down hill.

2.0
4.0
FMST101
Sep 10, 2008

I was scared to take this course because of all the bad reviews of him but he's very nice The class isnt easy-lots of reading and none of it feels useful Not sure how his grading is yet but he's really chill and cute too The class is more difficult than a 100level course should be Class sucks, prof really nice These reviews dont make sense to me

4.0
2.0
AH111
Oct 14, 2008

He is very passionate about the arts. Very talented professor as well. I don't know about him teaching film studies, but as a tag professor in Arts and Humanities, I think he's GREAT. Although he is not the one giving me the grade...

2.0
2.0
LTWR325
Dec 8, 2008

What a waste of a workshop! He assigns so much work, and you never do anything with it. So, you don't really grow as a writer. The assignments are very cliche. He does not like or allow ANY experiemental work. He's all about images! And he's VERY disorganized and extremely hard to follow! He hands out a syllabus, but follows a different one online

2.0
2.0
LTWR325
Jan 19, 2009

We accomplished very little in this workshop class. My writing skills were not honed or sharpened.

2.0
2.0
AH111
Jun 3, 2009

Terrible with keeping tract of your grades. Wouldnt email me back and gave me a grade were some of my assignments were still not entered into my grade.

1.0
5.0
FMST100
Dec 3, 2009

This teacher makes no sense, rambles about irrelevant things, and--worst of all--DOES NOT FOLLOW SYLLABUS! He cancels things, adds things, relocates, postpones things, WITH NO NOTICE, and then he FORGETS how he changed things, and changes it further. He NEVER answers email (and he doesn't stick to his office hours) TERRIBLE!

5.0
1.0
FMST100
Dec 8, 2009

very cool professor, final is to make your own movie! only out of class assignment is to see an independent film and write a little bit about it. Great teacher, great class!!

3.0
1.0
FMST100
Jan 24, 2010

He doesn't respond to e-mail. The class is easy, and you watch good movies. You don't really even need to pay attention to pass though or show up for that matter. He's nice and loves the subject, but unless you ask specific questions you won't learn much about anything. Make sure you get a good group for the movie or you'll hate life.

1.0
1.0
FMST100
Apr 27, 2010

Easy class. Just watch the movies, go see the film, and get a good group for the movie you make. Don't expect any help from the teacher though. He does ask stupid questions on his quizzes that no one would know, but still a passable class.

2.0
3.0
FILM300
May 12, 2010

Attendance is a must if you dont want to miss his suprise quizzes. watch the movies and go to office hours so he gets to know you. no exams just quizzes with hard tricky questions. no need to buy the book, he puts the notes up. group movie is the final, over all an easy class if you actually go to it.

2.0
1.0
FMST100
Aug 24, 2010

Interesting movies but he's a bore. Don't bother reading the textbook. Nothing he quizzes or tests about is in that book.

2.0
1.0
LTWR325
Dec 8, 2010

He seems like an easy professor WATCH OUT Make sure you know when everything is due!!! He IS NOT CLEAR about what is due when its due and MAKE SURE YOUR WHOLE GROUP DOES SHOW UP - He bases your grade on your groups participation (?) and just LET HIM TALK otherwise he will frown on you speaking when he wants to stand

1.0
3.0
FMST100
Dec 18, 2010

NOT CLEAR AT ALL. ALWAYS CONFUSED. BORING MOVIES.

1.0
3.0
FMST100
Dec 22, 2010

TERRIBLE AT STICKING TO THE SYLLABUS. WONT REPLY EMAILS. NOT HELPFUL. NOT CLEAR. BUT! he loves what he teaches and seems to have a passion. Lots of people who talk through the class and it's distracting also. He needs to get organized.

1.0
2.0
FMST300
May 9, 2011

Worst class ever. Doesn't follow syllabus, no direction, his website is hard to follow. Movies were ok, but quizzes were lame. Don't take his 7am class you WILL sleep!!!

2.0
5.0
AHL
Sep 13, 2011

The material for the class is the most basic material I've ever come across. To compensate for this, the teacher makes the questions for quizzes and tests worded incredibly difficultly. Not worth the stress. You will know the material but the quizzes still won't make sense

1.0
3.0
FMST300
Nov 12, 2011

Don't take 7am class. It is a sleeper.This professor is horrible. he doesn't follow his syllabus. You have to go to his special website and try to navigate through it to figure out what is going on. He doesn't respond to email. DON"T take this class if you don't have to.

1.0
1.0
AH111
Nov 18, 2011

worst professor ive ever had. loopy. hes so lost in passion for what he teaches that he has no organization or communication skills. wont follow syllabus. changes assignments and makes up new assignments randomly. wont return any emails whatsoever. even if you ask him a question in person you dont get a clear answer. Im continuously lost Hes a joke

1.0
3.0
FMST100
Dec 1, 2011

boring class. does not follow syllabus and lectures are confusing and has worst examples for lecture.

1.0
4.0
AH111
Dec 28, 2011

AH 111 with Cesmat and Sprague. Both professors were never on the same page. Disorganized and unreliable. Unclear and inconvenient assignments. Field trips during class time were annoying but it got the class out of listening to boring lectures. Would not recommend this class.

1.0
4.0
FMST100
Jan 23, 2012

I thought this class would be an easy A. The class was extremely boring. I couldn't take the tests seriously because the questions were redundant and difficult. Making our own movie at the end of the semester seemed like fun but was just s PAIN.Nobody's schedules worked together. I don't know how but i still got an A-. Still hated this class

1.0
3.0
FMST300
Sep 4, 2012

His voice is horrible. He talks slow, pause too much, random, moves hands a lot, talks on level we are at, seriously slow and boring, funny because he looks like he is saying something important but we don't know what. People leave in the middle because they can't take it anymore.

1.0
4.0
AH111
Oct 9, 2012

He's the stereotypical artist. No sense of logic in his presentations so you have to adapt to his teaching style. He grades assignments harshly but his comments on your papers give NO insight on how to receive a better score. Go to his office hours and politely argue with your grade and he will bump it up.

1.0
4.0
AH111
Nov 30, 2012

Extrememly unclear sylabus. I was extrmemly dissapointed with this class. the teachers were disorganized and graded randomly assigned. Also Brandon was condecending and rude at times. there is no way to know what is going on..

1.0
3.0
FMST300
Dec 4, 2012

Horrible! Absolutely no help and guidance in the class. I took an on-line class, according to syllabus communication with professor should be via e-mail and Moodle. I sent numerous e-mails to the Professor with NO response. Does not grade assignments till the end, does not provide feedback, no chance to improve anything as ABSOLUTELY no feedback.

2.0
3.0
AH111
Dec 12, 2012

Highly unorganized course, taught with professor Terry Sprague. Both were never on the same page and required assignments were never conveyed clearly. Asking them for help was useless. Weekly online quizzes from the book & attending lectures was pointless. Cesmat's ego got in the way of his lectures. Tolerable but not enjoyable.

2.0
1.0
FMST100
Jan 16, 2013

The textbook is pretty much your professor. He is all over the place with lectures. If you need to talk to him don't email, he doesn't reply back. Read the chapters! The quizzes and exams are word for word from the book. Final project was okay. Find people who are going to pull their fair share. Loved the movies he showed though:)

4.0
3.0
FILM100
Apr 22, 2013

This guy has a vast ocean of knowledge he is willing to share with you. He is the ultimate film guy, awesome professor. My favorite film he showed - "The 400 blows" - French film - see it. He explains the deeper meaning and expression the artists were portraying. He's cool, take his class(If you like film and you aren't a tool)

1.0
4.0
FMST100
Apr 25, 2013

Took this class cause I thought it would be easy. It is in ways but this teacher is awful. Schedule is always off,very unclear instructions, will not take blame for his faults. NEVER REPLIES TO EMAILS!! Tried to tell him his instructions were unclear and he became visibly angry and irritated, very unprofessional. Bad teacher, disrespectful guy.

4.0
1.0
FMST100
Apr 28, 2013

Very clear and motivated about film. show up, watch a movie, take a quiz online.

5.0
2.0
FMST100
May 10, 2013

I do not really get why everyone is freaking out saying he is a bad professor. He cares about the success of his students, and will give you help if you ask for it . As long as you go to class, screen quizzes are easy, and the tests come right from the book.

5.0
1.0
AH111
Nov 21, 2013

Super chill teacher and cares about his students success.

4.0
2.0
GEW101
Dec 6, 2013

Cares about students passing the class. Really helpful when you attend after class sessions.

4.0
1.0
AH111
Grade: A
Jan 14, 2014

He's a nice guy who is passionate about his topic. The class gets pretty boring but as long as you show up and do the work you will most likely get an A.

2.0
1.0
FMST100
Jan 15, 2014

He isn't a bad teacher as people think. Class is super easy, most of the time you watch movies and the quizzes can be easily found in the book by skimming & w/o even fully reading it. You can skip class a couple times and not miss anything. Tests are exactly what is in quizzes which you can look back and refer on, and final is an easy video.

4.0
2.0
FMST100
Apr 29, 2014

All exams and quizzes online. Exams based on quizzes same questions. I took class once week i loved it. Doesn't take attendance. Watch movies and lectures. Great teacher he's passionate and one of the easiest classes you'll take. I don't know why he has low scores. I recommend him. You do a small 5 min. film from a genre you choose. its fun.

2.0
4.0
FMST100
Grade: B
May 30, 2014

Was not very clear during lecture

2.0
3.0
GEW101
Aug 1, 2014

He is not very clear when he explains what assignments are due and the class schedule is not followed. Pretty confusing individual.

2.0
3.0
FMST
Oct 3, 2014

Comes of as pretentious as first, but not really that bad. He teaches films so it's easy from the start.

3.0
1.0
FMST300
Grade: A
Dec 4, 2014

easy class if you do the work. don't really have to watch the films assigned since you can take his test up to 3 times. all test online, make a film at the end and an easy A.

3.0
3.0
FMST300
Dec 15, 2014

multiple quizzes a week, gives awful feedback like, come to office ours, great or excellent. doesn't tell you what you got on the quiz until after the day its done. Quizzes make up the test. Doesn't stick to deadlines as outlined by syllabus.

2.0
3.0
101975
Jan 4, 2015

One of the worst teachers I have ever had. Often inconsistent. His computer skills are laughable (normally I would not judge, but it was a hybrid class.) He could never get the projector to work (kind of important for a film class.) Expected professional group projects on an introduction class. I have LOST some interest in film thanks to him.

4.0
2.0
AH111
Jan 13, 2015

Made a non-interesting subject interesting. Played moviesvideos to support lectures. Easy classwork and assignments. The online quizzes are tedious and vague but not impossible. No in-class tests or quiz given. Offers a lot of extra credit opportunities (reading your poem to the class, sharing your notes with the class, etc) WOULD RECOMMEND!

5.0
4.0
CREATIVEW
Apr 12, 2015

He's talented and very helpful when it comes to crafting your work and developing your own voice. His passion for politics and education can sometimes conflict with your ability to get a good grade, just make sure you understand what he expects and when he expects it to be turned in. He will not hold your hand on assignments!

1.0
3.0
FMST300
Grade: B
Apr 26, 2015

Not worth taking any class with this professor, in a film class you are supposed to view films, in his class you don't, in fact you don't really do anything in his class. I'm in the 300 and we are doing the same material that the 100 level course is doing. You would think that being in a higher level course you would learn something more advanced.

2.0
2.0
101
Grade: Not sure yet
May 3, 2015

He starts lectures of well but like five minutes Into speaking he will bring up something random and talk for the rest of class about it. Isn't organized. If you approach him for help he acts angry or upset that your taking up his time. Group project is awful. Quizzes are easy and test are hard because he doesn't help prepare for them.

2.0
5.0
FMST100
Grade: D
May 7, 2015

Took him my very first semester of college and he was the absolute worst teacher I've had at this college. He'd assign at least 200 pages of the book to read and then for the quiz would have questions that weren't in those pages. He's ultra-confusing and the group project at the end of class was ridiculous.

3.0
1.0
FILM100
Grade: A
Jun 15, 2015

Like many people said, he can come off rude if he senses you as a lazy student. Doesn't have much patience for annoying or lazy people and will be pretty rude about it. On the other hand, if you have half a brain and show him you're a good student, he will basically hand you an A. Easy A class, I really don't know how someone gets a B.

4.0
3.0
AH111
Grade: A
Aug 7, 2015

there is reading involved and a lot of film watching quizzes for almost every reading and every film but the reading you can pass it just by skimming through the book other than that the class is very easy and the time goes by fast because he's an interesting individual

3.0
4.0
FMST10001
Grade: A-
Oct 8, 2015

You will have more quizzes in this course than all of your others combined.

2.0
2.0
FMST100
Grade: A
Oct 20, 2015

Seems like a nice guy and very passionate about film, but he acts as if we are on the oscar's panel when talking about film and assumes we know what he is talking about, when it is an intro class. He is not ever clear about due dates and seems very scatter brained. Quizzes and tests are all online and very easy.

3.0
2.0
AH111
Grade: A
Dec 8, 2015

Lots of movie watching and in class assignments. Personally didn't enjoy this class. Thought it was fairly disorganized and well, boring. There are online quizzes basically every week. Overall a really easy class if you just do the busy work.

1.0
3.0
FMST100
Grade: B+
Dec 18, 2015

It made me change my major. Worst professor here at csusm. He acts upset when questions are asked and also talks to everyone like we are film experts and is mad at us when we don't understand what he is saying.

3.0
3.0
FMST100
Grade: A
Dec 31, 2015

He's an average professor. Assigns a reading/screening quiz based on a movie or text. Cons: need to attend class, talks to students using sophisticated film language that most ppl dont understand, tests are hard, boring lectures Pros: doesn't need you to buy textbook, gives extra credit, funny at times He's not bad... he's average.

1.0
3.0
AH111
Grade: B+
Jan 4, 2016

Cesmat is very passionate about his subject, however he is very unorganized. Throughout the eight weeks, his syllabus didn't match what was actually happening. This caused missed assignments. He also was prone to going off track during lectures which kept us from really getting into detail. He also forgot to grade some of our assignments.

3.0
3.0
FMST300
Grade: A
Apr 16, 2016

He is very disorganized, assigns online quizzes each week but some are still closed from 2014. All exams are online and they are easy if you have done the quizzes he uses the same questions but again some exams will be closed from years ago when you go to take them. Class is dry and he doesn't keep you informed on things. Wouldn't take this again.

3.0
3.0
FMST100
May 5, 2016

Don't take if you aren't interested in film and you want to take it just for the credit. He loves going into detail during his lectures and sometimes he goes off on a tangent and never returns to his main point. Don't slack off on the final project! (5 minute short film)

1.0
5.0
FILM100
Grade: D
May 17, 2016

Cesmat thinks the students are a serious film critic. He does not did not work with students. This could be such an easy course but he makes it difficult. I would never take him again.

1.0
4.0
FMST100
May 17, 2016

The worst professor here at CSUSM. He thinks you know every single thing about film study. He never responds to emails. If you ask him a question he gives you attitude and makes you feel like you asked something wrong. He doesn't tell you about any deadlines or assignments, you have to figure it out yourself. Don't take him if you have options.

2.0
1.0
FMST100
Grade: C+
May 28, 2016
Wouldn't take again

I would not take again. It was supposed to be fully online, but he made us go to class sometimes. Lots of online quizzes, which were super easy. One major group project, which was a pain in the butt. He doesn't give specifics on things due, so I missed some major assignments. Very scattered class.

5.0
2.0
FMST300
Grade: A+
Oct 27, 2016
Would take again

1 Word - EASYAF. He's great! All we did is watch movies and they were all great! He makes you see these movies in a different way, it's inspirational. Easy quizzes, you get 3 attempts. I didn't even study and I got A's on all of them. The tests are easy, they are just the previous quizzes. The only thing that's hard is the Group 5 min video!

Inspirational
Clear grading criteria
GROUP PROJECTS
3.0
2.0
LTWR225
Grade: A
Nov 28, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Lots and lots of poetry and creative writing. Class is easy if you at least try to write. He is very accessible for help. He is often all over the place and he randomly assigns things. Barely anything graded. You will pass.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
1.0
GEW101
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 27, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Probably one of the worst classes I have ever taken. Nothing was organized, nothing was clear, his classes consisted of him talking about irrelevant stuff. He never graded a singel assignment. Would not recommend.

4.0
3.0
FILM300
Grade: A
Feb 22, 2017
Would take again

Great, enthusiastic professor with much insight and knowledge. Made me see movies in a whole new light, and enabled me to gain an appreciation for the true art of film. I don't understand all of the negative ratings; I think he must just be misunderstood, because I found his class inspiring.

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
GROUP PROJECTS
1.0
2.0
GEW101
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 8, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Talks non stop and is extremely boring

Get ready to read
SO MANY PAPERS
1.0
4.0
GEW101
Mar 14, 2017
Wouldn't take again

The worst teacher I've ever had. Ruined a subject I usually love. So unclear in his directions for every assignment and changed his mind constantly. Going to class only makes you more confused. STAY AWAY

Tough Grader
SO MANY PAPERS
1.0
3.0
GEW101
Nov 29, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This class was the biggest joke of my life. He is SO boring. His "lectures" are completely and entirely irrelevant to the material. Totally incapable of directly answering your question and will address just about everything else under the sun. I have never dreaded a class so much, do not take this class.

1.0
3.0
GEW101
Feb 24, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Granted this professor offers a lot of extra credit, he can talk your ears off. This professor talks way too much. For example, we were watching a film during class and he talked the entire time I couldn't pay attention to the film. He talked about how the lighting was in the frames and the characters. I'm taking his class for writing not for film.

EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
2.0
GEW101
Grade: A
May 11, 2018
Wouldn't take again

An OK Professor. Before, reviews seemed too harsh. However, now I understand why. Yes, he is boring and does talk an awful lot. However, I do think that some redeeming qualities are that he is extremely informative about anything he does talk about and writing styles. Decent, overall an easy class. 4 papers off of a movie, 1 standalone as Final.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2018
Would take again

This professor is a great person once you get to know him. He really cares for how you do in class and I would recommend going to his office hours for any help. He gives good advice especially for any essay your writing.

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A
Jan 23, 2019
Would take again

He will explain each assignment in a very clear way for you. In office hours he will help you with any doubt you have, no matter how long it takes. He gives lots of extra credit opportunities. A great professor overall. Easy grader too.

Gives good feedback
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Caring
2.0
2.0
GEW101
Grade: A
Nov 10, 2019
Would take again

Honestly, if you are looking for an easy writing class this will do. But, he is incredibly boring and I almost fall asleep every single class. He gives points sometimes just for doing group work and there are three small papers. One major essay and one research paper. The work is an easy "A" if you most classes. 3 excused absences and extra credit.

4.0
2.0
GEW101
Grade: Not sure yet
May 14, 2020
Would take again

Really cool professor! He is especially helpful when it comes to feedback (if you choose to share a paper with him to revise). He also gives a lot of extra credit opportunities since not many students participate, so make sure you participate if you need/want extra credit! You are also graded for attendance, so make sure to not miss any lectures!

Gives good feedback
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 30, 2020
Wouldn't take again

At first, I loved this teacher. But, I tried emailing him after I had some questions and he does not give a solid answer to any questions. His lectures are super boring and always made me sleepy. Would not recommend taking!!

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Isn't a very clear professor. I'm sure he means well but doesn't give clear instructions, the extra credit required a $900 book in order to complete and wasn't very engaging. I found myself very confused half the time.

5.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: B+
Dec 17, 2020
Would take again

Extremely caring and helpful with feedback on our papers.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Caring
4.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A
Jan 22, 2021
Wouldn't take again

At the start of every class he will go over the weekly assignments and content that you need to work on. There are some texts we read in the beginning of the course but they aren't that bad. His lectures are straightforward, but sometimes he can be confusing. However, he is very kind and understanding and receptive to questions.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Explains whats expected. Did not reply to messages that I sent. Had good one on one meetings on our writings. I did do the extra credit. The book he chose was not popular and was hard to purchase. Rarely followed the class syllabus schedule, making students confused.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A-
Dec 7, 2021
Would take again

So this class in general is a lot of writing. He can definitely be confusing but he seems to always be understanding if students are falling behind. I actually feel like i learned something from this class. he give great feedback and is always open to questions.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
So many papers
5.0
3.0
GEW101
Dec 7, 2021
Would take again

Professor Cesmat was not as bad as everyone says he is. Yea He can be confusing or boring at times but if you engage and talk with him he's really a funny teacher. Just do all the work! He also gives great feedback on essays and there's honestly not too much work as my online class was only once a week so there's a lot of time to finish it.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Hilarious
1.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A
May 8, 2022

Overall, he is a professor that does not know how to teach and super unclear about his grading scale.

Get ready to read
Group projects
1.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A
May 22, 2022

Although I got an A from the class, I would say that the instructions on assignments are usually not very clear. Also, he is super late with grading assignments and sometimes forgets to grade your work. Good luck if you're taking a class with him. I would not reccomend at all.

4.0
2.0
GEW101
Grade: A
Dec 2, 2022
Would take again

Professor Cesmat is actually a great professor, and I was surprised to see his low ratings on here. Actually, I'm not too surprised by the overall low ratings, because I notice a lot of my classmates bored with his lectures. But, it's honestly because they don't interact with him much. He's a very nice guy and doesn't take himself too seriously.

Get ready to read
Gives good feedback
Caring
5.0
2.0
GEW101
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2022
Would take again

He has boring lectures at times but he is very nice. His lectures are somewhat boring but they are not that bad if you try to stay engaged. Some instructions are u clear but overall the workload is very light and assignments have clear due dates. I would recommend!

4.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2022
Would take again

Most of the classes he just talks the whole time and not even related to the topic that we are working on. During those times I was just playing minecraft lol. There are just 2 big papers through this course and small writing assessments from 250-500 words. He is a nice guy and is open to help you. He just likes to go off topic a lot.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
2.0
3.0
GEW101
Grade: A-
Apr 17, 2023

His grading was tough and I felt as though he nitpicked a lot of small things when it came to essays and even some discussion posts. The class is pretty easy if you do your work but it would be even more helpful if the instructions to his assignments were clear.

Tough grader
EXTRA CREDIT
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

40%

Textbook Required

55%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 36 grades
Most common grades:
A (20)
B (5)
Not sure yet (4)
Grade Distribution
A(22)B(5)C(1)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(6)
Based on 41 reported grades
A: 20
B: 5
Not sure yet: 4
A-: 3
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (9)
EXTRA CREDIT (7)
Get ready to read (6)
Caring (5)
Clear grading criteria (3)
GROUP PROJECTS (3)
Inspirational (2)
SO MANY PAPERS (2)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.18 avg change
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Ratings by Course

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5.0

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5.0

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5.0

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5.0

(1)

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4.0

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