4.0
Quality3.1
Difficulty76%
Would Retake347
Reviews76%
Would Retake
347
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
347 total ratings5
179
4
80
3
41
2
27
1
20
What Students Say
“Would not take prof again”
FILM8 - 2.0 rating“Very boring class, I love film but I've never had a professor who is so behind the times that he didn't even know video-games existed”
FILM002 - 1.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
96%
Textbook Required
25%
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A-
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HIST2
5.0
(1)FILM2290
5.0
(1)FILMLS
5.0
(1)FILM20
5.0
(1)FILMM5000
5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
FILM2181
5.0
FILMFILM
4.3
FILM20
4.0
FIL2144
4.0
FILM4234
4.0
Reviews (300)
Kanin is someone you need to take if you want to increase your chances of getting into a real film school. The downside is you will have to listen to him insult all of today's directors, claim that audiences today aren't looking for intelligent films, and tell you that you have no chance of being original. The work does not add to your education.
Prof. Kanin's courses are to the point. After every film we get to speak our opinions which is nice. I like his teaching style. If you need help or guidance he provides office hours. I found this to be very helpful.
Professor Kanin really cares about his students and their learning. He presents amazing movies and brilliant lectures to accompany them. He made himself completely available for questions inside and outside the classroom. His knowledge of the subjects he teaches is extensive. I took every class of his I could. He inspired me to go to film school!
I took his Cinema 1 in 2001. I couldn't speak English well, so I had a hard time. But now, after being in a film industry producing a couple feature films, I appreciate how much knowledge, I got from his class, is helping my career now. The class you should take if you are serious about the industry.
Professor Kanin is by far one of thee BEST teachers Ive ever had. This is my first film class and he made me decide that films is what I want to do for the rest of my life. His classes are VERY interesting and he is as well. He is the prefect teacher to teach film 5 (Vietnam, Watergate era) because his lived through it. Best teacher and best class!
Professor Kanin is an excellent teacher. He is extremely knowledgeable of his field, and subsequently a very interesting person to speak with outside of class. His classes are undeniably hard, but film is an extremely competitive industry. and his class weeds out those who think studying film is an "easy A." Don't waste his time if you not serious
Kanin is the best Prof SMC has. His parents've been in the film industry, he's so much knowledge & knows what he wants from students. Dont take his class if you think you can do nothing& get an A. Take his class if you plan to go to Filmschool, bcause his classes are the best preparation, exams are almost USC/UCLA-level. He used to teach at USC too
Kanin is the best professor I've ever had. His lectures are so thorough and keep my attention and he allows us to interact with him constantly. He also has these wonderful discussions with his class, asking us intelligent questions which really stimulate our thinking. The films are the greatest, and I can't wait to get to his class every week.
What an awesome professor, the best i have had at SMC. He knows his stuff and there is never a time when I have been bored. 4 hrs. goes by quickly. he lets us talk a lot about the films and they are so good make us want to study hard. Tests are fair and there is writing to be done at home, but the prof is always there for us.
This professor hasn't been teaching college 35 years for nothing. Kanin is a brilliant scholar and gifted teacher, and he knows how to make film history come alive for us. He is the prof. you need to stick with in all of your film studies at SMC. Look no further than Kanin.
This teacher sizzles - a winner all the way. I have learned more from him than anyother prof atSMC. He supports us in our work, and gives us loadds of posiitive feedback, in class and during office hours. He's the man!!
Professor Kanin is passionate about the cinema and extremely well-prepared. His course is densely packed with information and insight. Best for those who really want to know film. Not a gut class or a class that can be taken lightly. Excellent if you want to get a real education.
Wasn't really sure about the class since it deals with the "greats" and I didn't know who we'd be talking about until the first day. Loved it. It was Hitchcock and Kanin sure loves Hitchcock. He knew everything there was to know about the man and his films and conveyed the information in a very meaningful way. Definitely will take more with him
If you have any interest in film, you must take a class with Professor Kanin. He is an enthusiastic, knowledgeable and nice guy who genuinely wants his students to learn and appreciate film. His tests are reasonable and he is always willing to answer any of your questions. He has a great attitude and he is always excited to teach. I highly suggest.
If you have any interest in film, you must take a class with Professor Kanin. He is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and a nice guy who genuinely wants his students to learn and appreciate film. He is always prepared and his classes are interesting. He is always eager to answer any question and he always has a positive attitude. I highly suggest!
The class introduced me to film history and Prof. Kanin made it so exciting to study. He really cares about the students and wants them to succeed. The man is kind and thoughtful, and the most awesome instructor. Lectures were fascinating and we participated in these great intellectual dialogues with this amazing scholar. TAKE HIS COURSES!!!
Thanks to this professor I stat to really love my major and to get more into the movies that I ever did it before! I own him so much for make me love what I'm doing If you take is class you will not just learn some history that after the final you will forget, what you learn in his class will stay in your mind for a really long time.
if you are interested in film you have to take your film classes with professor Kanin period.I took 3 classes with him and spent a lot of time discussing movies, every moment I spent in his classes have been useful and helpful for me going to film school, and graduating at the top of my class.it is essential to your future to take classes with him.
i've takn film classes from other profs who teach thi subjectand this guy is the best teacher of the lot by far!! The work isn't steep and he makes it fun to learn about film. Remember that Kanin's head of the Film dept. at SMC so he the one you got to take especilly if yoy want to get recomedation letter which helps you get into 4 year coleges.
I thought this class was kinda hard if you're not a film major. Very lecture intensive class! If you're a film major he's the guy to take. He is not too specific on what will be on the test. He is very approachable if you want help on the 4 film essays due at the end of the term. 3 Tests, Final and Grades notes from class at the end of the semester
I can't wait to take this prof's other classes. Mr. Kanin has inspireed me to learn more about movies. I started at this place knowing little about cinema with a undeclard major. I'm now major in film because of him. This isthe kind of prof you come to colege to find and I wis there were more teachers so good as Mr. Kanin
Great class. Kanin is very passionate about his work and it creates a comfortable environment. Easy to talk to and plenty of available office hours. He encourages class discussion and even gives extra credit for it. Amazing movies watched in this class!! Grades Scale is verrry lenient. Overall I would recommend it for the major, or non-major.
Learning from this man is as good as it gets. prof. kanin went to USC Film School and has taught college since '74, as stated on his sylabus. Had to study hard, but learned much from three classes i took with him. assignements, tests, were fair and workload not bad. You can get an A if you do the work and take it seriously. go with prof. kanin
If you want to further your education in film you've got to take as many classes as you can with prof. Kanin. He incourages discussions. He's very helpful with any concerns a student might have and the workload is veeery fair - just open that book once a week! Loved both his classes... and yes, he's a super hot!!!
I took a total of 5 classes with Prof. Kanin. His classes were challenging, but I felt like I walked away w/ a real education about film. He has passion, as well as weath of knowledge about the films you watch. If you do the work, you will leave with a rich understanding of film history, as well as the society that framed their creation.
If you are serious about film, then take this class. Kanin knows what he is talking about. There is a decent amount of writing, but he will critique you as you go. It is a very positive experience. I walked away far more confident about my knowledge on film.
Prof. Kanin was a major influence in igniting my passion for film. His class was entertaining and truly one to be looked forward to weekly. Class discussions were certainly entertaining and Kanin definitely knows his film. Take this class as an elective if you can but don't miss it if you are a film major.
We need more professors like Kanin. He clearly shows genuine passion for film through his lectures and is focused towards having all of his students expand their minds and succeed. Film major or not, his classes are amazing and you will surely learn a lot. If you want an A in his class, show him your dedication and he will be more than accomodating
If you're a flake, dont take Prof. Kanin's class, you will suffer. His classes are a challenge, but also are extremely informative and are a joy to attend. He is oldschool, but he knows his subject.Your hard work will pay off in the future. A bare minimum ist enough for him, but that teaches you a lot and really prepares you for you future studie
I feel fortunate to have had Professor Kanin for three classes; he is among the very finest teachers. His deep and thorough explorations of film and filmmakers, and the history surrounding them, is extraordinary. He expects his students to have passion and spirit, and if you show it, he'll give it back tenfold. If you love film, Kanin is your man!!
I will admit I was tough on this teacher. I didn't have too many fair things to say about him. But the truth is, he is a good professor who cares about the material. And most importantly, he gives credit where credit is due. I will take him a few more times. You will not get an A by glamouring him, you must prove to be a film scholar.
If you put in the work you will get the grade you deserve. He is always available to talk and discuss your progress in the class. I recommend this class to students who want to see great movies being taught by a great professor.
Mr. Kanin inspired me to work harder in his classes than I ever thought I could. He doesn't just teach about film, he teaches skills that make you a better all-around student in college. He is in charge of the whole Film Dept. at SMC and is still able to devote so much time to helping us succeed academically. Now that is a great professor!!!
Out of all the film classes I've taken, I think Professor Kanin's class was the best. He knows a lot about film, allows his students to express their thoughts about the movies watched in class, and is very helpful to students who have problems or serious questions about class. If you love film, you MUST take his class.
Prof. Kanin and his classes are so awesome. I've already taken two of them. He is so kind, funny, and exciting in the way he teaches. He gets everyone to discuss these incredible movies he shows in class. Mr. Kanin makes it so much fun to learn about film and filmmakers. Fight to get in to his classes. You will not be sorry!!
This man really cares about his students. He's so great in the classroom, his lectures and discussions are dynamite. Workload is reasonable, and if you keep up with it and do well, he'll get behind you in writing letters of recommendation for transfer that carry a lot of weight. This professor is the one to take if you want to get places!
What an AMAZING prof!!! The semester went by sooo quick because this instrctor made me fall in love with film. All I want to do is take film classes now, and with prof. kanin teaching. You have to work hard, but its worth the effort because you learn so much from him that makes a big difference in your education. And it's fun to be in his class!!
This guy's the RealDeal. If you love&care about movies, his classes are your bag, Baby. But sloths avoid! He isn't 4 you. His chosen films are great, w/ focus on 2-way influences between society&film. He's passionate, insightful, personal, political, rambling, informative, &often very funny. Class participation required and fun. Awesome classes!
What a great ride, that is, learning about film history and having lots of fun doing it. I wasnt bored because this teacher gave us a lot of his own thoughts on the subject, not just giving out dry facts in his lectures. He a film scholar who knows BIG TIME how to make this exciting for everyone and make you want to work hard to get that A.
I would not be surprised if Kanin wrote these reviews himself, considering how much he cares about his reputation according to this site. His political opinions, which he constantly presses, are dry and shallow. Dont disagree however, it will hurt your grade. Don't mind the subject matter, if he thinks you like him personally, your grade will show.
As an instructor of Film Studies, Prof. Kanin is a relentless purveyor of cinematic information. He wastes no time in his "Film 2: History of World Cinema" class, which consists of in-class viewings of foreign films and lectures on various national cinemas and film movements. The questions on his exams, however, can be poorly worded and misleading.
He comes from a family of screenwriters and he is a USC alum. Film is trully in his blood. He is really passionate about film. As a teacher, he is very straight forward, come to class,PARTICIPATE, and READ the BOOK.Class consists of documentaries and discussion, very informative for those who like cinema. I definitely recommend him for Film 2.
Truth be told thanks to his class now I am a Film mayor and I will be transferring to USC Film School this fall.His lecture were simple and clear yet full of information.Information that will help you on the daily basis in the business.His test are easy, no homework and you have an entire semester to do 3 easy, I would take him over and over again.
Taking Prof. Kanin's classes has been unforgettable in my education. He is a true film scholar who really knows how to TEACH. The best there is! You won't get loaded down with too much work and the grading curve is fair. Lots of GREAT discussion. If you want to have fun and learn a lot, take his classes (though as I discovered they fill up fast).
When they say SMC has the greatest professors, Mr. Kanin is the perfect example. This teacher knows everything there is about cinema which shows. He gives you MUCH encouragment and support throughout the semester. I'm going to UCLA soon and know I will do good there largely because of Mr. Kanin. I hope they have lots of professors as good as him.
I came to this class with an undecided major and when it was over, decided on Film Studies as my major. Prof. Kanin inspired me to do that. The combination of strong lectures and movies that really stay with you, and a lot of discussion - made this class the best I have had so far. This professor is the greatest and you won't forget his classes.
You sit there and watch these incredible movies on a giant screen like in a movie theater with stereo sound etc. Kanin really impresses with his knowledge of film and the way he teaches. No hard tests, interesting writing assignments, and not much reading. If you talk up a lot in class, he gives you extra credit for that. GREAT CLASS & TEACHER!!
His lectures are filled with valuable insight & info on film. He really teaches you how to think critically about film, in other word, how to see film instead of just looking at it. If you love to learn & love film you MUST take his class. You would appreciate all the things you learn from his classes long after you have moved on with your life.
It is rare that you get a prof who teaches with such passion, wisdom, and humor, and who motivates you to work hard and learn the most you can while in his classes. Kanin is that kind of teacher. After taking 3 classes with him, not only do I have a greater knowledge about film, but also I have learned study skills that will be valuable later on.
Mr. Kanin is a master scholar and elder statesman of academeia with 35 years of teaching college to his credit, as his syllabus says. but he not old hat and dull like some profs i've had his age. This guy knows his stuff and is the real deal. You work hard but learn scads about film from him. He is the greatest prof you could want for film study.
Prof. Kanin ROCKS!!!!! He is a great scholar who knows film history and everything about his subject and he is so passionate about teaching community college students. You got to take his courses if you want to make it into UCLA or wherever else you be transferring to. He's the type of professor who is passionate and who is really there for you.
If you need an A, take Mr. Kanin's classes but be prepared to earn it. If you earn it, you will walk away with a better understanding not just about film, but also with the knowledge about how to study properly so that you can get high grades in your other classes. This professor inspired me to achieve the best of my abilities as a film student.
As head of the Film Dept. at SMC, I am sure Prof Kanin has so much work to do other than teacing. Even so, he always had time to guide me and provide me with feedback on my work in progress. This gave methe confidence I needed to work harder & smarter to get the final grad I needed in this class. I hope I find more teachers like Prof Kanin.
I have never had so much fun learning about film, even though you have to work. Though tests are a cinch if you take good notes and keep up with the reading. The essays you have the whole semester to do. Grading curve is such that you have to try hard NOT to get an A or B in his classes. I've had three classes with him and they keep getting better.
AWESOME TEACHER AND CLASS! Education doesn't get any better than in prof kanin's classroom, and hands down, this wasthe best class i had at smc so far. Unforgettable course.
This is my second class with Prof. Kanin. He is always well organized. Lectures are never dull because he asks questions while he lectures and gets you to interact with him. After the movies are shown, the discussions are wonderful because he asks more questions and gets everyone involved. His way of teaching is SO GREAT and I was never bored.
Great prof, learned a lot in it. If you read the book and take good notes, you will get an A. The lectures help you with the tests too which I thought would be harder & homework mostly is reading. This course was a breeze & best part was seeing movies from all diffrent foriegn countries that are SO MUCH BETTER thanwhat they make here in u.s.a.
Kanin teaches with SO MUCH of life experiences behind him, such as being Vietnan vet & a lot more that he mentioned in class. Those who are shy to speak up he makes feel comfortable so that they want to talk & he helps you a lot so that you do better with your work. RECCOMMENDED IF YOU WANT TO LEARN MORE THAN JUST WHATS IN THE BOOK.
Enthusiastic and friendly professor, the best you can get. He's dynamic, scholarly, witty, insightful, and charismatic. Prof. Kanin is a first-rate scholar and THE EXPERT on anything and everything related to film. Just be prepared to study hard and you will learn more about the cinema than you ever thought possible. Don't miss his classes!!!
Prof Kanin classes were incredible - educational and entertaning at the same time. Remember that he is HEAD OF THE FILM DEPT. and if you get on his good side and do really well in his classes, he will give you a letter of reccomendation for transfer that is like gold. I got one from him that I know helped me to get into UCLA film school last year.
I took his Hitchcock class. He is absolutely amazing. I took an A, but I worked really hard. The discussion was the best part because it's not the type of discussion where you have to talk even if you don't have anything to say. He doesn't force you to talk so that is the point where you hear good comments and take notes. One of the best professors
I have never had a prof as good as Mr Kanin. He makes it fun to study the history of movies. The lectures, films shown, and the discussions were so thought provoking and memorable. I am lucky to have found this teacher and I want to take more of his classes. Fight to get into one if it is full at the beginning. You wont be sorry.
He writes his own reviews on this website. Don't trust them. (yes, he is that kind of guy unfortunately)Avoid the class if you love film, it will just get you worked up.
Kanin's classes were a major influence on my education, and he the greatest of profs. It not often you get a teacher who makes being in a classroom as exciting as he does, with so much that you can learn from him. I already in 2 more of his classes. He the one to stick with if you serious about film.
If you want an A, Mr. Kanin is your man, but there is lot of work which is easy and fun to do. You come away being a better studnet with the study skills to make you do better ina 4 year college you want to go to and ace your classes there. Ths is the man to learn cinema from and be on your team.
THIS IS THE GREATEST PROFESSOR IN THE WORLD! I'm a film major and have taken film courses here for over a year. Kanin's reputation is awesome on this campus and everyone I've talked to who need to take film wants to be in his classes if they can get into them. He will help you in every way to do your best work and get the highest grade possible!
I thought this class would be a cinch but it turned out to be more challenging than I thought. Kanin motivates you to study hard and be more confident. You really work for that A that you want to get, but it worth it because you learn so much you never thought you would. He made me want to major in film and go on to film school.
Easy class, friendly prof who is the real deal. Tests come mostly from the easy book and writing assignments are fun. And the best part is the discussions after seeing the movies, which took diffrent forms and everybody in my class got involved. What a GREAT ride, and a class and professor I'll never forget!!!
the worst....Never take his class!!! He forces to talk and also himself talks too much. Never, ever take his calss.. You will get an easy 'c'.
I have taken both his film 2 and film 5 classes. You will score major points if you are active in the film club. He has been teaching film since dinosaurs were roaming the earth. Kanin relies on his experience to teach,so he does talk a lot, but he is by far the best film teacher I have had. Take good notes and do the readings.
really hard! he gives no study guide at all for tests so you're pretty much on your own as to what to study. Long, complicated essays on different films. Unless you are a film major, don't take his classes, he's too intense.
Kanin's the teacher to take film with, hands down the top film guy. I was never bored in his class. Profs at SMC dont get any better than this. You'll get an A, but must work for it.
Fun and friendly professor. I didn't know much about film before taking this class, and now I want to take more film classes, and ONLY with Mr. Kanin. The lectures and group discussions were awesome, and I learned so much!!!
Kanin's the head of the film department at this college and I'm told his letters of reccommendation carry a lot of weight and influence. Being a film major, I know that if I stick with him and take more of his classes, I will have what it takes to be able to get into a good film school like UCLA or USC.
I usually never participate in class discussions but found myself eager to give my opinion after Kanin's infectious enthusiasm during lectures. And by the way, whoever wrote that he writes his own comments on here, who cares?! He's probably saying the same great things me and many of his other students are saying which is: this class ROCKS!
I took two of his classes in the same semester and all i can say was WORST MISTAKE OF MY LIFE. He has a lot of knowledge but is so in love with himself he just babbles about his opinions for hours. SO BORING.
Josh Kanin is the worst professor on campus. I do not say this lightly. His lectures are not only repetitive, but incredibly incorrect and misleading. He fails to bring the subject of film into a truly scholarly light. He asks incredibly stupid questions that only get answered by equally pretentious students looking to shine. Take another professor
His passion is apparent in every lecture, his handouts thought-provoking and informative, and his excitement about teaching is amazing. You get what you put into the class, but if you're willing to engage in class discussions you'll get the grade you want AND learn a lot. An amazing teacher!
this prof. makes it great to study film, because he runs the best movies in class. he lectures but lets students talk a lot about film they seen. tests and grading is fair if you put in the time to study and this prof. gives you a lot of support in your work. Take Kanin if you serious about study film.
JOSH KANIN is a briliant film professor who bring out best in you. I took 3 of his courses and learned so much from him. Mr. Kanin rewards you for working hard by writing you a letter of recommedation that helps to get you to the 4-yr college of your choce. Stick with this teacher and you wont be sorry.
This guy knows his stuff. If you don't mind extremely long and tedious lectures you should take him. He is very repetitive though. There is 3 tests that are impossible and a final that is easy. You have to view 3 movies and write 4 page essays on the commentary. boring, but worth it.
A bore and a failure.
Do not be fooled by the good reviews. I can promise you 100% that they are undoubtedly written by him. He even asks for good reviews. Want the truth? He is the worst professor you can ever expect to get at SMC. Ask anyone who has actually taken him. He is convinced that he is a recognized expert on film, when he teaches wrong. Take someone else.
Lol how is this guy teaching? He is so oblivious to a little something called knowledge. He won't give you an A if you don't make him think he is instrumental in your gaining of wisdom. Self-centered and empty-headed. Don't wait the money going to your education.
Word to the wise: Avoid this class. It may seem like a great idea, watching movies for a few hours & go home. But its more work than you think. Lectures seem to never end. The class room is always cold. If you take the class do the reading, and keep up with it. 4 papers due at the end. 1 final. 1 midterm. class is based off of 550 points & curved.
I found him a little pompous and full of himself he lectures non - stop for 2-3 hours and only gives two test a Mid term and a final . If you take good notes and answer questions in class it helps your grade. Also make sure you give a good report on your DVD's an A is not impossible
Prof Kanin is fantastic. Yes, you will have to work very hard, this class is not for people who just want to watch movies and go home. This class is for film majors and people who are intelligent, interested, determined. But, if you want to get into film school, taking Prof Kanin is not only a great idea, but should be mandatory. He is THE BEST.
DO NOT take his class. His lectures go on and on and on. He's such a dry person. He's full of himself and thinks he's the greatest thing to ever happen to the Film department. His class is 4 hours long and he talks through out the whole thing, every minute of it, and even goes OVER time. The movies he shows are horribly boring. DO NOT TAKE HIM.
Overall, a nice guy and I really enjoyed his class. But he has a dull personality, gets pretty preachy about how to do well in the class, and is pretty arrogant. Lectures go on for a very long time and if you can't sit down for four straight hours you might want to avoid him. But if you're very interested in film history, you'll like the class.
Professor Kanin is a good, solid film teacher. He donates his time to help the Filmmakers Association, and he's supportive of students goals. The class is obviously a must take if you are a film major. I also met a music major who composed music for my film in his class. I go to USC film school now. Kanin?s class is not hard. It helps.
Professor Kanin's classes are a must for film majors at SMC who are looking to transfer. He's hard, but not impossible and has a love for film that is contagious. If you have a chance, take his film and society of the 50's class. He has incredible knowledge about this period of time in history and it was my favorite film class I've had at SMC.
Folks : by the time you will apply to film school you will be more than glad that you took Prof. Kanin's film classes. Yes, they aren't for slackers. Yes, the midterms are hard. BUT, his classes will prepare you for upper division film BETTER than any other film classes, and I've attended film semesters at both USC and UCLA. Prof Kanin really knows
continued from below : really knows his material and shows fantastic films. I've taken Film 2 and 5 with him, and I learned so much!! Plus, if you work hard, you might be able to get a letter of rec from him. He wrote an amazing letter for me that I'm proud to submit with my applications. So go sign up for his classes! You'll be glad you did!!
An amazing teacher who understands and is passionate about the material and cares about his students, as long as they put forth the effort. I've taken three of his classes, and while they aren't easy, the benefits are entirely worth it.
His classes are detailed and intensive, but also incredibly interesting. He gives you the entire semester to work on your assignments and will gladly assist you with your works-in-progress during his office hours. As long as you maintain dialogue with him, you can't go wrong. He's there to help, and while it's a tough A to get, it's worth it.
An terrific professor. He'll assist you with your papers well in advance of the due date, and he has the most amazing selection of film documentaries that really illuminate the subjects in unexpected ways. It's not a cake walk; he makes you work. Not a class to just slide through, but to get an A is highly rewarding and even fun!
Professor Kanin was a delight. He is open for all student correspondence as long as it adheres to his office hours, he is very helpful. His courses have all kinds of tests: essays, multiple choice exam, and journal notes. It helps those who are not just good in one area to get good grades. He loves American film and he's a great teacher!
Professor Kanin is an awesome professor who's name carries a lot of weight. His film selections are wonderful. Midterms and Finals are mainly off the text, but he is a fair grader at the end of the term. I highly recommend him, especially if a film major. You won't regret it!
Josh Kanin, although Passionate and helpful is very long winded to the point of boredom. He does know his stuff and wants his the best for his students, so take one of his classes and see how you like it. He's not for everyone.
Professor Kanin is a perfect film professor. He wants you to actually learn what he's teaching you. His class opened up my eyes to the greatness of foreign films. The Final and Mid-Term and based strictly off of his textbook assigned reading. This is the perfect film class for film majors. He is a very fair grader and I highly recommend his class!
Professor Kanin is a perfect film professor. He wants you to actually learn what he's teaching you. His class opened up my eyes to the greatness of foreign films. The Final and Mid-Term and based strictly off of his textbook assigned reading. This is the perfect film class for film majors. He is a very fair grader and I highly recommend his class!
Professor Kanin's class was really helpful for me. After taking his his class i found out what i wanted to do for my career. MAKE MOVIES! You will learn something in his class if you take him. He knows what he is talking about and he shows great movies. he's class is not for student who don't want to work. you need to put some work in, but it's not
Professor Kanin is a very knowledgeable professor. He takes his classes very seriously and requires his students to put a lot of time and effort into it. You are required to write a lot of essays and reading the textbook is essential. Speak up in class and participate. I recommend taking his Film 2 class. I really enjoyed it.
He is AWESOME! If you = true student, Kanin is the man for you. But dont expect to waltz all over his courses; they are tough, but completely and fully engaging! My interest in film shot up tremendously after I was taught by Kanin. Everyone should be lucky enough to experience his unique enthusiasm in a subject he knows well. I fully recommend him!
So who gave him the chili pepper? Haha, but he is a wonderful film lecturer. Completely failed the midterm, but I pulled myself together and came out with an A. If you are a film major, he will prepare you for the real deal. Extremely helpful, crystal clear lectures. He's in love with the film CITIZEN KANE so expect to watch it in his class.
DO NOT take him if you don't take film seriously! too much work! he goes apeshit on his movies and talks A LOT !!!!! He is strict about tradiness and will make you stay after class for a "few minutes" to finish his lecture. BORING
It seems ratemyprofessor is used incorrectly by students. It's should not be used as an attempt to talk s!!! when you received a bad grade. I gave Professor Kanin a 3 in easiness because how well you do in his class relates primarily on well you take notes and listen. The professor gets a 5 for clarity; he is very easy to follow in class.
Like the above post suggests, he is a very good professor. He teaches well, but it's up to the students to pick up the material. Take him if you want to learn about film while passing ur ge.
Great!!!
Prof Kanin is extremely knowledgeable of his field. You can definitely learn a great deal from him. He emphasizes the "art" of film, doesn't care too much about "mainstream" "cookie-cutter" films. If you want to get noticed in his class always raise your hand and speak up, he gives extra points to your final grade for this. textbook required!
Incredible professor. Truly is a brilliant mind. You have to work to get an A. It is doable. Prof Kanin is the best!! Very passionate in his field and well educated.
I like Mr Kanin as a person but in my honest opinion he is not a very good teacher, you do not learn anything in his class. I'm very diappointed in his teaching and would not recommend his class for anyone.
Well organized and focused. Rewards attendance and copious notes. Penalizes lack of participation. A great deal is covered and tested. An A is no slam dunk but is attainable by simply doing all the work at the right time. Nothing too difficult, just a lot of it.
Kanin is not as tough or scary as he himself or his reputation would have you believe- but he is no easy A. If you dont care about film and aren't a decent student to begin with then this class is not for you. To get an A you'll need to TAKE GOOD NOTES ON FILMS (cite them heavily in essays) and PARTICIPATE. Generous grade scale so dont panic.
Kanin is a very passionate and knowledgeable instructor. He really knows his stuff and expects a lot from students. It's not an easy A but not overly tough. If you take notes, participate and work hard you will do well. He cares about his students and helps those who seek it. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for those who are SERIOUS about film!
The Prof. is an expert on film and his lectures are very helpful. Not an easy A but if you turn in every assignment, you have a better chance of earning one. I got a B but I learned more in his class than any other film class at SMC. He is very approachable and willing to help. His class is a safe environment to learn and speak your mind.
Great overview of American Film. A bit fast (as a lot is crammed in). Good lectures and materials supplied by the instructor. I used an earlier edition of the textbook I found in the library and was able to keep up.
WORST LECTURER I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED. His lectures will make you want to stabbed yourself in the eye with your pencil. So boring. So repetitive. And almost everything on the test is in the textbook! And it is a really boring and long textbook. He is also terrible at leading discussions. The tests are also difficult. Try taking someone else...
If you are planning on taking film 2, be sure to know that there is a course that teaches foreign film and American film. Unknowingly, I signed up for foreign. Kanin has hard tests and long lectures, but I have never seen someone more excited about what they are teaching. If you want to pursue film, he is the perfect teacher! Great guy and cares
Awesome professor! Kanin made me want to be a film major at smc. You have to study hard but it worth it because he can help get you into film school. His lectures were great, and movies the best. If you are serious about film, stick with him.
This professor is a rarity and if you are seriously considering majoring in Film or anything that involves communicating with other people in your own backyard or on a worldly level - Take him. He is a sparkling gem of compassion and very approachable, if you need to talk one-on-one...
This was one of my best classes at SMC and I will never forget it. This teacher is so great and made me love film and inspire me to take all his other classes. He demands a lot from students, but what you learn is so much. He doesn't grade hard and keeps you on track through the whole semester.
I found out that Mr. Kanin been teaching film since '73 and it shows. He really know his stuff and I want to keep coming back to take more of his courses. Must keep up with reading and he has the best discussions of films. You can make an A easily if you do the work and speak up in class. This teacher not be be missed because he the real deal.
Professor Kanin is perhaps the most passionate professor I've ever had. He clearly loves film and his enthusiasm is infectious. The class is not an easy A, but if you work hard, take good notes, speak up in class and read the text book you ought to do well. Also, Office Hours are a great help!
this my 4th class with Kanin and wish I could take more with him. Changed my major to film because of his teaching. Work was fun to do and amazing discussions. Films even better. Take good notes and keep up with reading and you will do good on his tests and get an A. Kanin rocks!
Professor Kanin's love for cinema really engages one in his course. Reading is dense, however, the two tests aren't worth too many points. Also, there are opportunities for extra credit. He wants all of his students to succeed and is willing to bump your grade up if you participate and go to office hours. One of my favorite professors and classes.
Extremely insightful!!!! Lectures are super engaging the reading is perfectly aligned to provoke interesting aspects of films and lectures combined!!! Very Valuable and Very Appreciated!!! Kanin is def. passionate about analyzing and inspecting students views and opinions!!! Def. earn an A by taking content seriously!! So glad i took this class!!!
Prof. Kanin is engaging, animated, and cares for his student's performance. His passion for film makes his classes enjoyable and he is invested in the success of his students. If you are wanting a career in film, he is the person to go to for guidance.
Great Teacher! So Enthusiastic. Almost too enthusiastic. Speaks a little loud on the mic without realizing, but funny. The work load is manageable. Just keep up with reading. It's interesting. He makes you write one small page about every film you watch (every week) 2 exams, multiple choice. Chooses great films and is willing to help you a lot!
He is very much a hard ass. At the same time he needs to be to have such a excellent class. I came into his class not knowing a thing about film making and the director Stanley Kubrick and I came out having my major being Film and Stanley Kubrick being my life. Kanin really knows what he is doing and puts you through hell. But is 100% worth it
His love of film and teaching is contagious. Great teacher. Very tough tests (mid-term & final). This is not an "easy A" class. He strongly encourages (and appreciates) student participation during discussions.
kanin rocks! i got 56/100 for my midterm. however i end up getting an A! isn't that amazing? he talks a lot during his lecture. but most of the exam questions are from text book. he is willing to help his students to succeed. he will answer all of your questions. there will be 1 mid term, 1 final and 5 essays. take him!!
I would stay very far away. Kanin seems very passionate for this subject but his passion translates into poison. Tests are 50 q's on 500 pages of reading! No study guide! Only way to earn a high grade is to talk during discussions. 5 essays all due at the end of semester. When you ask for help with them he is not helpful in the least bit!
I took his film 2 class over the summer, which can be a bit too much for some people. He's a great professor and a bit hard but do well on your exams & do all your essays! You'll be okay :)
V. disappointed. His lectures are long and poorly directed. He emphasizes importance on attendance and participation, but most of the exams/assignments are based on huge amounts of reading (3 textbooks) and he provides no study guides. He won't give you any feedback unless you go to his office hours. Also, he grades your notes.
I would say Professor Kanin is fair and he is passionate about film study. He did make us write several papers, read the text and checks attendance as well as tardiness. If you come to class, do the work and participate in discussion you'll be fine. He does tend to ramble on sometimes but that doesn't bother me.
Josh is such a nice man his class is really easy if you take the time to read the book,Watch the Films and take good notes. I recived a B in his class. He does ramble a bit but he does know what hes talking about. I highly recommend this class is film background comes in handy.
Kanin is a great prof!! He loves film and expect a lot from students, and if you do the reading and be prepared for the tests, take good lecture notes, and jump into discussions, you get good grade. Highly recommended.
He's not an awful professor - could be worse - but he misleads you into thinking that discussions we have in class matter. They don't. Nothing to do with what appears on the exams (all based on reading - stuff like names and dates.) Don't rebut his ideas. You won't get any help whatsoever on your essays unless you go to him during office hours.
This was a very boring class. He rambles on a lot and he's very strict about attendance. He's a nice guy but this class didn't really do much for me. We also didn't watch that many films. On a good note, I got a D on the midterm and an A in the class. Participate and write good papers and you'll do fine.
Kanin is overall a good teacher, and he's passionate about film. However, he's not the easiest teacher to connect with, so office hours are pretty much a waste. I certainly don't regret taking his class, but he's not an amazing teacher. His classes are very repetitive.
While Kanin can be boring and dry at times, overall his old-fashioned way of teaching really felt right with the course material. If you are passionate about film the reports will flow easily. There is a lot of work however, but he is not the harshest grader in the world, unless you don't know how to write an essay.
It is a way too boring class, 2 hours of long lectures and 2 hours of watching the film. Professor is passionate about his work, and a nice person. His midterms and finals not that hard, + he checks your notes in the end of the semester.
I really enjoyed film 2, he knows a lot and gave me a clear chronological idea of history of Int. film. I had this class before at another college; however, I felt I still didn't know much about it. This class provided me with a stronger knowledge of film. Of course you have to be a film lover, otherwise don't take it.
This professor made film history come alive for me. You work hard but I learned more than in any other film class I've taken. Prof. Kanin grades fairly and the films and lectures kept me excited throughout a long semester.
Best film class and prof! Kanin has been teaching college for 40 years and he is head of film program at smc. He helped get me into ucla film school, as he has big influence. I took 4 classes with him and would take more if I could. The workload was heavy, but I learned much more than just about film. TAKE HIS COURSES!!!!
This was an interesting class, with two exams, and a lot of written work to keep up with. Dr. Kanin guides and help you more than most professors in class and office hours. If you have good notes on lectures and speak in class, your grade will show it. He the teacher to get with, as he is so smart about film and really want you to succeed.
If you like film and histroy then be warned that his classes can bore you to death on both subjects. I am a film major and love film. However, Kanin, has repetitive lectures, nonsense ramblings, and this all around stuffed-shirt attitude, which makes a die-hard film student hate learning about film. If a better teacher is open, take their class!
Kanin is passionate about film, so this helps make the class interesting. If you don't have interest in film, then don't take him as a professor. The class could be kind of boring for you. Also, study the midterm... hint hint
Doctor Kanin is the MOST enthusiastic film viewer I have ever seen. Sure, he can talk a lot about the same thing, but if you pick up on words he repeats you should be fine. His midterms are usually about the book, but you can fail it and still get a solid A just by doing some papers. TAKE HIM!
Dr. Kanin made the movies history awesome, and I plan to take many more classes with him. His lectures were long but never boring, and the tests were not hard if you read the book carefully. Written work is designed to make you a better essay writer, which you need to be if you want to transfer to good college.
THIS PROF. IS THE GREATEST!!! He is there to help you do best work you can, and the films were great, and not too heavy a work load if you want to get an A, you can do it easily. Take him, and you learn a lot and will be a film lover forever.
I learned a lot from Dr. Kanin in film, and he expect you to work very hard and you will get A if you study the book and get into the discussion after films. He is head of Film Dept, and his classes are best of all because he been teaching for 41 years and that really shows. I plan to take many more classes with him.
I learned a lot from Dr. Kanin in film, and he expect you to work very hard and you will get A if you study the book and get into the discussion after films. He is head of Film Dept, and he been teaching for 41 years and it really shows. I plan to take many more classes with him.
Dr. Kanin class taught me a lot and if you do the reading and take good notes, you ace the tests and will get grade you want. He make you work hard, but it worth it because he is head of Film Dept and can help you get into college of your choice if you do well with film study. I plan to take more classes with him.
He the greatest professor I had at smc. Makes classes fun but you work hard on essays and need to read book to do good on the tests. You see films that not easily forgotten and I plan to take all of his classes if I can. Dr. Kanin is leader of film studies at smc, and he been teaching film over forty years. Take him!
If you want learn about film, this is the prof. to study under. He is head of film department at SMC, and has most influence on getting students transferred to good film schools like UCLA and USC if you take him and his classes seriously enough. Study the book as tests are based largely on it. Keep up with work load.
INCREDIBLE TEACHER!! SO MUCH FUN TO LEARN FILM UNDER HIM. ONLY A MIDTERM AND FINAL, AND A FEW SIMPLE TO WRITE PAPERS. AND MOVIES HE SHOWS IN CLASS ARE AMAZING. TAKE KANIN'S CLASSES.
Best prof. I had at smc. Kanin makes you love film if you don't already, and I took all his classes. Must read book if you want to do well on tests and take lot of notes, but he supports you a lot if you do good work. I never had a prof. more helpful and want you to succeed. Speak up during discussions, he likes that, and your grade will show it.
Dr. Kanin is a great teacher. Have had three classes with him, and they all fun and entertaining, but you must work hard to get an A. Midterm and final exams only, and a few essays. Reading the book, and taking good notes really helps, and he likes when students speak during discussion times. He is positive and really wants you to succeed!
I feel very mixed about Kanin. On one hand he knows his stuff and has a fierce passion for film. On the other hand, though, his lectures are extremely dry, the book he assigned was awful, and worst, he's just really out-of-touch with younger people, and carries around his nostalgia with pride. Exams were also a pain. Only take him if you have to.
If you want an A, you have to work. I really do admire his passion, but he just rambles in circles and forever. You get really restless. I feel like it's just him and the podium to the end. Even though he wants to hear from students, it doesn't really mean anything, and it hardly helps your grade. If you talk, you get an extra point.
He's very passionate about his lectures, but he's very repetitive (talks about one small point for 20 min), and his lectures are very dull which makes you lose focus quickly. In my class I'd say 35% of the students sleeps through his lectures. The book chosen for this class is very dry and feels outdated.
Kanin seems to have combatted student apathy with apathy. His "study guide" for our Film 2 final mentioned to, "bring a scantron." Even if you want to work hard for your A, you're working within unknown boundaries. He's very vague about what you need to know for exams. "Read the textbook thoroughly," he says. The textbook is 750+ pages, by the way.
Overall I got an A! But I did study and read all the assigned chapters, I did get behind but just make sure to skim if you can at all. Also, if you want an EASY A THIS IS NOT THE CLASS lol. We wrote 3 papers on different films, my ranged from 11 to 14 pages each. Make sure to be clear , take notes during the films (it helps so much). Love film? OK!
I'll be honest here, I missed many classes and I didn't read much of the book. He lectured for about two hours straight and then we watched a movie. If there was time left after, he'd pass microphones around and let students voice their opinion. Just a midterm and a final test-wise.
Lectures are long, meandering, and boring. Tests are tough and have very little lecture material. Book is a must have to do well on tests. If you don't test well, don't sweat it, the class is heavily curved. Overall he's a nice enough guy and he clearly loves film, but he's very pretentious and caught up his own beliefs and opinions.
He is a great teacher of film, and you learn so much! If you do the reading and take good notes, you will do well on the two tests and probably get an A. Also, he likes students to participate in discussions after films are shown, and gives a lot of extra credit for this. If you love film and want to see great movies, Prof. Kanin is worth the time.
If you do the reading and take good notes, you will do well on the two tests and probably get an A. Also, he likes students to participate in discussions after films are shown, and gives a lot of extra credit for this. If you love film and want to see great movies, Prof. Kanin is worth the time.
Dr. Kanin loves teaching, and it shows. Only a midterm and final and the reports are easy to do, and he gives you help and support in office hours. You will learn a lot from him and about film, but you need to keep up in textbook and do notetaking during his awesome lectures. The movies you see are so good and make the class fun.
This prof teaches you much more than just about film. If you plan to transfer, he will prepare you well for your last years of college because he wants you to succeed. He motivated me to have good study habits and do my best work. That is what a great prof does, and he is the best I have had. If you work hard, you will get the A you want.
Plenty to study, but the tests were easy and workload not that bad. Best of all, the films we saw in class inspired me, and the discussions kept me involved from day one. Prof Kanin grades fairly and you will get the grade you want as long as you take good notes during his powerful lectures, do the reading, and talk up in class.
Mr Kanin is a great film teacher. He is a little old and his teaching is also a little old fashioned sometimes. But this class really saved my semester because all you have to hand in is a mid term, final and 4 essays at the end. I got a C on the mid term but if you talk in class and write good essays you can definitely get an A!
Before I took Dr. Kanin's class, I had very little interest in film, but he made me to want to take more film classes. The lectures were long but never boring, and he gave me a lot of feedback on my written work, tests, and whatever else I needed to make me feel more secure and motivated to do my best work. What a powerful, memorable class!
His classes were the best I had at SMC. I learned so much from his lectures and the films shown were best I seen in years. Just a midterm and final, and essays were easy to do. I wish I could have taken all of what he taught, but had to transfer. Awesome film professor!
He loves to hear himself talk for FOUR hours straight, even at his office he will talk for an hour instead of helping you. He makes you write 4+ essays I studied like an animal, and I feel I know absolutely everything on the subject now. It was stressful. He gave me a B only because I forgot to sign my attendance one class.
GREATEST PROFESSOR I HAD IN COLLEGE. Dr. Kanin never let you down, he is the real deal. Only two exams, and if you take good notes and talk in class after films get shown, you will get an easy A. He knows everything about film, I never got bored and Dr. Kanin is always there to give you help and support when you need to get it. TAKE HIS CLASSES!!
Pretty boring. I quite enjoy film, but at one point in multiple lectures he was just reading off the back off the DVD covers.
Prof. Kanin is an amazing teacher. I've had him in both Film 2 and 8, and I always left his classes feeling very inspirational and loving film even more. If you want to watch great films and listen to someone who's very educated and passionate on the subject, Kanin is the prof. for you. Prepare to work hard for your grade though, he's tough.
I never felt a teacher more wanting me to succeed in every way. Dr. Kanin is a born teacher who motivated me to study a lot which if you do, you ace his tests and will get major grade. I never thought a film class could be so much fun, and you will learn more from him than you ever thought possible. What an incredible experience!
Kanin know's what he's talking about and he cares about what he's talking about. His lectures are long and there's not a clear idea on what notes are important cause it's just him talking and no study guides. He has a bit of a sad outlook on society and film today which frustrated me at times. Overall he's a sweet guy and you can expect a B.
Dr. Kanin's class excited me more than any class I have taken in the past few years. He knows his subject, based on as we found out 42 years of experience teaching film in college. He communicates his knowledge with an enthusiasm and clarity I have rarely seen in a college professor. We also watched films that left me with so much to think about.
Prof. Kanin is a film genius. DON'T BAIL ON THIS CLASS!!! He will scare you with attendance policies and a notebook can make or break your grade, but everything is manageable as long as you don't procrastinate. One midterm, one final, notebook, and attendance are only things you're graded on. MUST ATTEND CLASS! Kind prof. with tons of knowledge.
Professor is very passionate about film which translates into an intensely burning elitism. The 30% curve on this class should be a huge red flag if you think its going to be easy! The midterm and final have nothing to do with the class lectures, they're taken verbatim from the book. But your in-class and at-home notes are worth most of your grade?
Speak up in class, take good notes, and do your essays and you should do well. Prof. Kanin has a deep knowledge of film history and you'll get to watch a movie in every class. If you love film history, film noir, Alfred Hitchcock or Stanley Kubrick's films, hopefully you'll find him to be as passionate and inspiring a teacher as I did.
keep up with your journal/course note book, watch videos out of class and do research, speak in class it helps your grade and he sees you trying, films and culture were interesting, get a lot of out it, you learn history too and well better than a history class, study with classmates, reading may be long, but take mates to know what is important
If you have time take it. I got bored, really bored. We repeated the same stuff we read on the books. Then had to take notes on everything and had to turn in our notebook. He knows a lot. I personally don't like his teaching method.
If you are a film major this class is for you. Prof. Kanin has a deep love for the art of film. His lectures are long but extremely interesting and insightful. No homework. Don't be afraid to participate in class discussions, he will grade you on it. Take notes! He will usually allow one to use their notes during the final exam.
he is a good teacher you learn a lot
Not like me to have such a hard time in a class, yet it happened. Extremely boring lectures, often going off on a tangent. The tests also seemed to be completely what he had said to not focus on. He also seems to give more of a "I'm your boss" type of vibe, rather than a professor or teacher vibe. In other words, he's pretty full of himself.
Very long and boring lectures, however we did watch films and videos in class, which you have to take notes on. You have to take notes on everything he says. There are two notebooks, one from class lectures and one from the reading you do on your own from the book. He expects very thorough notes and you use them as your study guide for the final.
Very boring class, I love film but I've never had a professor who is so behind the times that he didn't even know video-games existed. "One day there'll be movies you can control," he once said. Prejudiced against modern films, and always seems to be distant during his lectures. It was a very cold class, and he made no effort to connect w/ students
My mom once said that if I had nothing nice to say, then I shouldn't say anything at all. But I will give advice if you do plan on taking him: read your textbook while he lectures. None of his lectures are on the exam, and make sure you highlight everything. He throws oddball questions and doesn't give study guides. Good luck.
We have lecture before every film then we take a break and come back to see the film then have a discussion about what we saw. All 4 papers are due during finals. The midterm is difficult but the finals are easy. There is no doubt you will pass with an A or B in the class. He grades in a very fair curve and gives extra credit.
He is very passionate about film history. I took him for Film 9 as well. I would definitely recommend him. His lectures are very long but he tries to make it as interesting as possible. The exams are a lot about names of movies, directors and actors. Highly recommend learning names of the movies.
Learn a lot from Dr. Kanin, really knows his stuff. He been teaching 43 years and it shows. Lots of reading, but his lectures and the movies seen made this class the most fun I had in long time. I would take many more classes from this prof. if I could. He is nice man and really helped me do well in the class. Easy A if you do the work.
Prof kanin is great teacher. Had two classes of his, and they all fun and learn a lot, but you must work to get an A. Midterm and final only, and a few essays. Reading the book and taking notes really helps, and he likes when students speak up for discussion after the entertaining movies are shown. He is positive and supports you a lot.
Very experienced and insightful. Lectures are so engaging and the reading is perfectly aligned to provoke interesting aspects of films and lectures combined. Very valuable teacher and rated HIGH!! Kanin definitely passionate about film and teaching!!!! Likes hearing students views and opinions. You will earn A if you work and take it seriously.
Very kind prof. who really knows how to teach and motivate you!!!! TAKE HIS CLASSES, not just for A you will probably get if you work hard and take it seriously, but also because you will learn a lot about film, see great movies in class, and be inspired to take more film classes. His lectures are intense and you will remember all you learned!
This professor wasn't very professional at all. He didn't give feedback on any coursework and none of the material was related to anything the class was supposed to be on. I'm very disappointed with the class and I really wish he wasn't the primary professor. He very often would ignore students and would go on about 2 hour long rambling speeches.
If you enjoy feeling like you are passing away take his class. His lectures usually take between 1.5 and 3 hours of the class (4 hour class . His lecture is in the form of a speech where he finds a way to say the same thing in 5 different ways. He is so out of touch with how tests should be written. The tests consists of trivial information. absurd
Amazing prof! It was like going back in a time machine to the fifties. Kanin's lectures were clear and dynamic, and he motivated me to want to study hard and keep up with the reading assignments and test review. He rewards bigtime for class participation. Best teacher I have had so far at smc. Take his classes for sure.
Prof. Kanin's classes are inspirational. This is my 3rd class with him. He gives you a lot of input and support on your written work, exams, and whatever else you need to help you get the grade you want. His parents were famous screenwriters, and he grew up in Hollywood learning the movie business from the inside. He is the real deal!
If you want to be prepared for transfer, this is the prof to take. One of nicest teachers I've had in college, and he motivates you to do your best work. Even though tests and written work were challenging, I am glad they were because I am a better college student because of that, and in the end, I got the A that I needed to get.
GREAT PROFESSOR!! His classes are legendary at SMC. I never thought I learn so much about film. Mostly fun to see great movies and hear Dr. Kanin's detailed lectures. If you take good notes and keep up with assignments, you will ace the tests. Speak in class and he will give you many extra credit points that will raise your grade.
Harshest attendance policy ever, you can't even miss class if you are sick or you lose 50 points and there re only 1000 total points in the course long rambling lectures where he repeats the same things over and over again. Literally told the class his teaching style hasn't changed much for DECADES and it shows
If you are looking to learn more about International Cinema, you are in the right place. His lectures are pretty solid, HOWEVER a few time you get a chapters which are pretty short but he would still give a 2 hour lecture and ends up repeating himself. Sometimes would get unnecessary political. The choice of films was phenomenal.
Prof. Kanin is an expert about film, and so experienced and helpful. His lectures are fascinating and he shows the best movies. This prof. is so passionate. Tests are not difficult if you study, and he likes students to participate in class, which gives you a lot of extra points. Don't miss taking a class from this professor!
Awesome professor. Dr. Kanin's amazing lectures, and the discussions after films motivated me to sign up for more of his incredible classes. Important to keep up with reading assignments. Study guides really help you to prepare for the 2 tests, and if you take good notes, he rewards for that. Not to be missed classes!!
Awesome professor. Kanin's amazing lectures, and the discussions after films made me want to take more of his classes. Important to keep up with reading assignments. Study guides really help you to prepare for the 2 tests, and if you take good notes, he rewards for that. Not to be missed classes!
I have taken 3 or Dr. Kanin's classes. He is the head of the film dept. at smc. This professor is the real deal. He is so helpful and supportive in every way. Tests are based on lectures and reading assignments, and written work is easy, so if you keep up with everything, you'll get that A. He gives a lot of opportunity for extra-credit, too.
Kanin is passionate and loves to teach, been doing it for 44 years, and you can see his vast experience. His lectures are detailed but really fascinating, and you learn so much from him. Hardly any homework and it helps your grade to talk in class. Take notes, you can use them during the final exam. Best professor I have had in years!!
Very kind and helpful prof. TAKE HIS CLASSES, not just for A you will probably get if you work hard and take it seriously, but also because you see great movies. Dr. Kanin made me want to take more film classes with him. His lectures are amazing and he supports you in every way. 2 tests and simple written work, and just keep up with reading.
I have taken other FILM courses at smc, but Dr. Kanin's is the best of the lot. He is kind and supportive, and encourages you to do your best work to earn that A. I learned so much from interesting lectures, and he showed incredible movies. Only two exams, a course notebook, some reading, and there is extra credit. He made it a perfect class.
Amazing teacher. Best I have had at smc so far! He is in charge of film department and his classes are incredible. Read the book, and the 2 tests are not to be afraid of. A notebook you turn in at end and he gives a lot of extra credit. If you speak in class, you will likely get an A because he likes to see this. Always fun but I learned so much.
Interesting lectures and seeing films I never saw anywhere else and that have stayed with m . 2 tests are based on what the prof. talks about in class and what films are about. Mostly reading the book and doing a few reports. I will take him again, though his classes fill up quickly. Popular professor who gets class really excited about film!
I am surprised that many people here say hes a good lecturer, bc sitting through his lectures every week made me want to stop living. Entire grade is 2 tests and lecture+book notes. Grade heavily curved, yet only 2 ppl got As and it was a big class. Have to be huge film nerd to like him, im a moderate film nerd and i wanted to die
Prof. Kanin's classes are a win-win, and if you have a passion for film like he does. Grading is on two exams, a course notebook, and there is extra credit, which insure a good grade in the class. You will work hard, but I never learned so much about film. GREAT MOVIES, TOO! This is one supportive and helpful prof. you can't afford to miss.
Awesome instructor! He's head of film department at smc. What you learn in his class is how to study hard and be prepared for to get into that college you want to transfer to. He cares about students, and it shows in everything he does in class. Awesome lectures, and workload is easy. Best instructor I've had at smc, I wish I have more like him.
PROF. KANIN CLASSES ARE INCREDIBLE! GIVES TWO SIMPLE EXAMS AND YOU DO A CLASS NOTEBOOK, WHICH IS EASY. GRADES ON A CURVE, SO CAN GET AN A IF YOU KEEP UP WITH READING, DO A BIT OF WRITING, AND ATTEND REGULARLY. WHAT KEPT ME HOOKED IS THE MOVIES, WHICH I HAD NEVER SEEN AND WHICH IS WILL NEVER FORGET. SO PERFECTLY KEYED TO THE AMAZING LECTURES.
The courses Dr. Kanin teaches are gems, took 3 of them, and wish I could take more. Even though his classes are large, I felt like he was teaching just to me. No pressure, and he gives you a lot of support and feedback through the whole semester. You have to work, but I learned so much about film and he was never boring. Take his classes!
Dr Kanin; best Professor I had ever. Learning about film from Michael and Fay Kanin' s son was an honor for me. When you listen Dr Kanin's lecture, you feel passion and you have tears filled in your eyes. End of the semester you realize that you are not anymore the same person; Your eyes see different your heart feel deeper...
Long but enjoyable class. You learn a lot on the chosen director along with enjoying the films.
Kanin is an awesome teacher whose classes are in this huge movie theater auditorium with a giant screen. If you take notes, do the reading, and participate in class, it's an easy A. He keeps you entertained, and I learned a lot that I never thought I would in a film class. The movies he shows are incredible!
This class was long and fairly dull, and the reading and paper writing was so excessive on top of the classroom hours. We were not given clear study guides or expectations for what would be on our mid-term. I finally opted to drop the class midway through so I could focus on the courses more central to my studies. Would not take prof again.
As much as I love film, I found Professor Kanin to be a little bit boring and repetitive during most of the lectures. He's a good man and cares for his students but I was a bit disappointed. No study guides, no clue about what the midterm or the final exam will look like. The books he assigns tend to expand beyond the covered class material.
Prof. Kanin's teaching inspired me to want to major in film at SMC. I couldn't wait for his class every week. Workload was light, and his lectures were really awesome. He also showed movies that are unforgettable, and I learned so much from him. He is the head of the film department, and is really committed to his students success in every way.
Great class. I will not forget this professor, he's so approachable, and best I have had at smc. Kanin's informative lectures kept me eagerly coming back each week. Only two tests, and you take notes which get submitted at the end of the class. We had thorough study guides, which made it easy to prepare for the exams. TAKE HIS CLASSES!
Dr. Kanin's the head of the film dept. and he an amazing teacher. He is supportive, kind and has so much knowledge about. If you take good notes and do the reading, it's an easy A. I wish I could see as good films in theaters as he shows in his class. I can't wait to take another one of his classes, if I can get in. I hear they fill up so quickly.
THIS TEACHER IS AWESOME. The best class I have ever had. If you want to be prepared for transfer, he will make sure you are ready. The textbook and his lectures gave me so much understanding and appreciation for films, and the discussions we had after seeing films were the best. You can't afford not to take Dr. Kanin's classes. So much fun!
I wanted to like this class, and enjoyed the films (Hitchcock), but unfortunately, Professor Kanin didn't add anything that wasn't already in the textbooks. In fact, his lectures were long, repetitive and dull. I'm sorry to say it - he's a nice guy and means well, but his teaching is sub-par for one with so much experience. He needs to listen more.
Mr. Kanin is absolutely brilliant but has no idea how to run a classroom. His approach that 'there are no wrong answers' leads to meandering, class "discussions" that are basically an echo chamber of students giving their opinions on whether they liked the movies or not and never answering his questions.
Mr. Kanin is a great teacher of film. His lectures are long but inspiring, and he is the go-to person if you want to get into a film school. His letters of recommendation are highly coveted. Tests and reading assignments are easy, and you have to take good notes. Mostly, its the wonderful movies that you will never forget.
An exciting and brilliant professor!, and the workload is reasonable and manageable. If you like film, you will be excited by this great film scholar's lectures and the questions that are discussed after the movies are shown. A journal is kept, and the books are fascinating to read, and exams are a snap if you keep up. Take Kanin's classes!!
Awesome professor!! If you show up, take good notes, and do the reading, you'll end up with an A, because tests are easy and written work is done mostly in class. Kanin was always available to give me feedback on this work, and most of all, he motivated me to major in film at smc, and to go on to film school. I cannot recomend him highly enough.
Far and away the best prof I have had at SMC. His classes fill up fast and are hard to get into, so you must preenroll early. My class had 90 students in it, which shows how popular he is. A truly inspiring teacher like this makes the whole subject come alive, and he motivates you to do your best work under his patient and dedicated guidance.
Dr. Kanin is the head of the film department and a top professor at smc. I really enjoyed the 4 classes I had with him, and the hard work I did in them helped to prepare me for transfer to UCLA's school of cinema. You must take good lecture and film notes, keep up with reading, see all films, and you should be able to ace the midterm and final.
The nicest teacher and Dr. Kanin never bores. He organizes his lectures clearly, and shows powerful and unforgettable films. He gives study guides, test preparation handouts, and much more to help you get the most from the class and to be able to get an A. He cares about students, and it shows in the way he teaches. It is a win-win all the way.
AMAZING PROFESSOR! You get two exams, a course notebook that Kanin allows you to work on over the whole semester, and much extra credit. His grading curve is not a downer, and he rewards if you speak in class. He knows how to inspire us to work hard for the A we all want. He truly cares, and it shows. I plan to take more of his exciting classes.
I rate this teacher the highest because the class was fun, entertaining and I learned more than I thought I would from a film class. Not so much work that you are unable to enjoy the movies which are shown on a giant screen. His fascinating lectures and the lively discussions that take place after the movies are shown are highlights of the class.
Big time learning in Dr. Kanin's class! He supported my efforts to get the most out of the work, gave out study guides, and the tests and what we had to write were perfectly matched to his rich lectures. Everyone in class was so enthusiastic wanted to talk about the films seen, and there was even applause after the films were over.
This teacher is the best. I had 3 courses of his, and they are entertaining and you really learn film. Only 2 exams, powerful lectures, some good reads is the text, and a class notebook that you take notes like a journal that he gives you feedback on all through the semester. I couldn't wait to get to class each week, and the hours went by so fast.
I have had 2 classes with Dr. Kanin that were filled with memorable movies, lectures, and class discussions. He is the nicest professor, and I learned much more than I thought I would about cinema from this great scholar. Getting an A is easy because there are study guides, and he gives you a lot of help and support in the work that is assigned.
Get ready to read. Two notebooks are half of the grade and they need to be written in your own words. One notebook is for is lectures and one is for the textbook (400 pages). Professor Kanin is very knowledgeable about film in general and you can tell that he loves what he does. Overall good class.
Dr. Kanin is head of the Film department. He loves film and it shows in his lectures and the great movies we saw. The discussions after seeing movies involved almost all students in the room, and in most other classes I have had here, there is much more work expected and more difficult testing. If you like movies, this is the place to be.
Prof. Kanin only gives two exams, and you keep a course notebook that is more like a journal. Also, he gives opportunity for extra credit. I learned so much, and was blown away by the amazing movies being shown in this new state of the art theater with a giant screen, HD bluray video projection, and full surround sound. What an experience!
Kanin is the best prof I have had at smc and he makes the time go by so fast. The work is easy compared to other classes. Tests are simple, and the reading journal helps you to prepare for them. He talks directly to every student, rather than showing boring powerpoints, and there is a lot of time to discuss the great films after they are shown.
I have taken several of Professor Kanin's classes. He is a kind and jovial film scholar and teacher of the highest order. If you like seeing movies in a big theater and talk about them after, stick with him. His lectures are rich and detailed, and he makes the classes fun and entertaining, with minimal workload. Exams and written work are easy.
Best film class I took. Home work is a journal kept, and also there are a couple of tests, and Kanin gives big time extra credit. This teacher has a lot of experience and knowlege of the film industry, how to get jobs in Hollywood, and I learned so much from him. Kanin is easy to talk to if you need his input, and a winner all the way!
Instructor Kanin motivated me to want to major in cinema. I was so eager for his class every week. The work was not heavy, exams a snap, lectures awesome and the films seen made me think about so much that is important. He rewards participation in class with major extra credit points, and is supportive in so many ways that matter.
Dr. Kanin is the best prof if you are into film at smc. If you take good notes and keep up with the fun reading, you will do good on the exams. Simple written work, and talking about the great movies shown. He helped me to get into ucla film school with a letter of reccomendation, which I was not able to get from anyone else. TAKE HIS CLASSES!!
I am a professional Romanian filmmaker and I had the pleasure to take 3 of Mr Kanin's film classes in 1999 and 2000. Besides the obvious erudition, Kanin breathes and experiences viscerally cinema. The lectures were amazing. Vivid details, an excellent grasp of the political, and artistic circumstances of each country, highly interactive class!
Great Teacher
If you don't do the weekly reading and you want an A YOU'RE GOING TO STRESS. 50% of the grade is based on a notebook based on over 500 pages of required textbook reading and another notebook based on lecture notes. They must be typed and printed, no digital submission. He chooses good films but his lectures are often repetitive. Good luck.
Prof Kanin is honestly one of the best professors that I have ever had. He made the class so fun and interesting and I truly recommend him to anyone. Just be participating in class and study well for tests and you will do great!
Prof. Kanin is an amazing professor for students who want to broaden their horizons when it comes to film. For the average student who may not be a film major, this class might be more dull for you. His lectures are inspirational and make you want to care about the material. The class is easy as long as you read and participate in class.
A lot of reading. You are only allowed to take notes by hand but then, he wants you to turn it in typed. It's very inconvenient. He only picks on certain people, sometimes if you want to participate in class he wouldn't pick on you and you don't get participation points.
If youre not actually interested in the subject dont take this class. His lectures arent the best and he gets sidetracked but he shows and discuses some really amazing films. The readings are DENSE but his exams arent too difficult.
Prof. Kanin is passionate about film. At first, I didn't understand his style but after a few lectures I realized that I really enjoyed them. Watched a lot of great films! He gives out 100p for participation but it was really hard to get a chance to speak, usually the same students talked every discussion. Still got an A! Take him if you love film.
He is good but too much prep.
Professor Kanin is a great professor. I was in his Film 5 class which was 4 hours long so be prepared to be sitting there for a quite awhile. Tbh I thought I was going to fail the class, but fortunately I passed with a B. Make sure to participate, show up for class, read the textbook, and study for the tests and quizzes.
The class is fun and you watch amazing movies every day. However, reading the book and taking notes is the single most boring talk I have had to do ever. It's easy to earn an A if you put in some effort. The class is 1 midterm, 1 final, your notes from the class and the book, and participation.
I took Film 2 with professor Kanin and it's one of the longest lasting classes I've had to take. You have to be there for lectures in order to keep up with the history of film, so attendance is necessary and so is participation. You will also be graded on a course notebook that you have the whole semester to complete. Put in work and you'll be good
Professor Kanin is an absolutely amazing professor. I took his History of Motion Pictures class (Film 2) online during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Even though I am not a fan of online courses, he made it very enjoyable and fun. He is extremely passionate about film and it shows. He also wants his students to do well and is honest. Highly recommended.
Kanin is a good professor choice for film. He's very knowledgeable and give good but heavy lectures. you have to do a course notebook due by the end of the semester! Be beware of this, it so long and it just write notes from each film you saw in class. After the films you watch, you have go to canvas chat, where you discuss the film and get graded.
Kanin is a professor that will spend the entire four hours of his class talking in circles about his own opinionated view of film history. The classes and lectures will put you to sleep unless you have a good drinking game for things he says repeatedly.
Best film professor ever
Dr. Kanin is the finest teacher I have had at SMC. I will take many more of his classes because this class was so much fun and I learned so much at the same time. Not too much work, and the films seen are so powerful and memorable. Don't miss out on taking a class with this professor!
Amazing prof. I changed my major to film because of Prof. Kanin. Movies in class were outstanding, the book was easy to read and learn from, and this prof's lectures had depth and got me excited about film study. A lot of extra credit is offered and the course notebook helped me to better prepare for the midterm and final exams. GREAT CLASS!!
Dr. Kanin is the real deal. You get unbelievably great lectures, fantastic films, easy workload, and lots of extra credit. Easy to earn an A if you read the fascinating book and study for just two exams. He is really supportive and kind. I got a letter of recommendation from him that helped me get into UCLA. I wish I had more teachers like him.
This prof is awesome! After taking 3 classes with Dr. Kanin in consecutive semesters, I decided to major in film. His classes are so exciting, with the best discussions and amazing lectures and movies. Workload is manageable and I learned so much and had fun at the same time. Don't miss out.
He is a fun teacher and his lectures are high energy but he is all over the place when doing a lecture. He also hasn't updated our grades since the midterm and he doesn't give us a study guide for the midterm and exam.
He is a really good teacher! Every class has a basic structure of lecture, film screening, and class discussion. I will warn you one class goes for 4 hours and we are only graded on three things: midterm, final, and our notes for the class. Very intimidating but as long as you do the reading and put in the work you will be fine. Not easy but worth
My hardest class, but a good choice if you need time for other classes. The two finals are too hard alone. You will not find the answers on quizlet. Get ready to write MANY pages of notes on a book and over class notes. Really is chill with teamwork. He even encourages this. The tests are insanely hard and tricky but "open book", so use your head.
Professor Kanin is an amazing teacher w/ a wealth of knowledge on film history. His lectures & films were so inspiring & as a film student, I gained an entirely new appreciation of cinema because of him. But pls know this class was tough! Heavy reading, lectures, & really tough exams. But if you love the cinema it's totally worth it, hands down!
Prof Kanin is so knowledgable about the history of Hollywood and makes the class very interesting but this class is lecture and reading heavy, it's not hard to get an A but that's because there are only 3 or 4 assignments in the course and they require you to retain information from every class which is hard if you're not studying your notes weekly
prof Kanin was a very great prof. He makes it very clear on what he expects of the students. The class can be challenging if you don't pay attention and don't come to class every week. The course only had a midterm, final exam with course notebook. The course notebook will require you to write a whole semesters notes from lectures and textbook
Dr. Kanin is the real deal, hands down the best professor I have had at smc. His lectures are exciting and the movies memorable. I have taken several of his classes, and they're so much fun! It's an easy A if you keep up with the assignments.
Professor Kanin is an inspirational teacher who really cares about students. I was so eager for each week's lecture and film. The discussions were so exciting to be part of. Workload was light, and I earned the grade I wanted, which I couldn't have done without this amazing professor's support and confidence in me. Take his classes!!
This is the best teacher I have had at SMC so far, one who really cares about his students. This is my second class with Prof Kanin. Fair exams, fascinating lectures, easy-to-read textbook, a course notebook like a journal, and we had so many great discussions about the films we saw. His classes are so enjoyable and I learned so much from him.
If you like cinema and want to learn as much as possible about it, this is the instructor to take. Dr. Kanin was helpful and supportive and wrote me a letter of recommendation for the scholars program. The movies we watched in class were outstanding, and his introductions to them really made me want to study them and talk about them afterward.
Took Fall 2022. LOVED Professor Kanin. Lectures/films were fantastic. His passion for film is infectious. Learned about history, politics, culture - on top of film history. Made me a better analyzer which helped in other classes. Puts the students first. Creates a safe space for all. If you love film & want to learn, he is the BEST film professor.
He is super knowledgeable and if you are majoring in film I recommend you take his class. Lectures can be a little boring sometimes. Midterm will be extremally hard if you do not keep up with the reading. Tbh I do not know how I got an A in this class it was a bit difficult. I only took it for the igetc requirement. Not an easy A but easy to pass.
WONDERFUL PROFESSOR. He motivated me to want to major in film studies. This professor is the real deal, look no further. He gives you a lot of ways to earn points, and is fair in his grading. Only two exams, and written work is fun and easy. You can earn an A, especially if you participate a lot in the discussions after seeing really GREAT movies!
Kanin is really nice, but wasn't my favorite class. The films were great, but I didn't enjoy the lectures or the chat you do after the viewing. I feel like he tries to be tricky on the exams and everyone got horrible grades, but his grading scale is curved so everyone ended up being fine.
Professor Kanin made me very interested in film. He gives informative lectures before screenings that are very helpful and funny too. We were made to participate in a chat with him after we watched the film, which I loved because these chats were so helpful and stimulating in digging deeper into the film. Participation matters, don't skimp!! 10/10!
Professor Kanin is fantastic! Engaging lectures, insightful discussions, and clear assignments - his class was both enlightening and enjoyable. I left with a wealth of knowledge and new favorite films. A must for film studies majors.
PROF. KANIN is the best teacher I've had at smc! I was never as excited by lectures and what I learned from him. He inspired me to want to continue taking more film classes. HIs classes fill up so must enroll early. A course notebook and a midterm and final exam is all the work required, and it's easy to earn an A if you make the effort.
Professor Kanin's FILM2 class was a cinematic journey! Engaging lectures, thought-provoking discussions, and a fair workload. Though challenging, the class was incredibly rewarding, especially with the help of unstuckstudy ai for exam prep.
Professor Kanin gives great (but long) lectures. We were only graded on a midterm, final, and semester-long project. There was a lot of reading so be sure to keep up with it. His exams are only based off of the textbook and his lectures so make sure to take notes in class as well. He gives extra credit if you turn on your camera during zoom!
I was not expecting for this class to be so demanding in regards to reading. Reading outside of class was very time consuming. When taking notes, make sure to be as detailed as possible as he will grade them in the end of the semester something called a Course Notebook. I didn't do five readings and went from a B to an A. Interesting class though!
Prof. Kanin is awesome!! I learned so much from his class, and he is the best teacher I have had at smc. Lectures are detailed but fascinating, and the films seen are memorable. You learn a lot from him. Can't rate him high enough.
Dr. Kanin's teaching style is engaging and keeps your attention throughout. He is a living legend at the college, and anyone who wants to get anywhere in film takes his classes. He also writes great letters of recommendation if you work hard for him. I became a film major because of taking his class. He is the real deal!
Prof Kanin's film classes changed my life. He inspired me to work hard and I learned so much from him. I was fasinated with his lectures, and he has these text discussions in Canvas that get you to want to talk about the great films he shows. Only two exams and a Notebook to turn in, and if you keep up with the reading, no problem earning an A.
Honestly, his class lacks structure, and leaves very little room for growth. His lectures aren't as engaging or entertaining as other professors, especially it being only online. He doesn't provide slides or anything, just him talking. It's a lot of reading, and re-iterating his classes in the homework. His chat room can be immature too.
Grading relies on three high-stakes tasks: a 200-point multiple-choice midterm, a 300-point course notebook, and a 400-point writing final. With little weekly work or feedback, it's hard to track progress. Rubrics are unclear, so students don't know how to earn high scores. Not recommended for a GE course.
Very unhelpful professor. As others noted, grades aren't updated after the midterm, and the course notebook is graded by unclear, unshared standards. Your grade is basically decided by a mostly essay final, which feels unfair. Heavy reading too. I don't get the high rating.
The professor was extremely passionate about film and a great personality in lectures, but there is a lot of outside reading and writing in this class. Definitely not for students that dislike excessive reading or reliant on submitting work late, as he is very strict on deadlines.
Kanin was great, but you have to be on top of being a part of the class discussions after the movies. You're not graded on a ton, but the fews things you are graded on are not very hard. Kanin is so passionate about noir, you can literally feel it through the screen when he's lecturing.
Lectures are strong—he's a PhD with 47 years teaching. But workload is heavy for a GE: huge readings that aren't covered in class, and a brutal final (3 hours, 8 essay questions) requiring deep analysis. Great for film majors; for non-majors it feels overwhelming.
Class Info
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100%
Attendance Mandatory
96%
Textbook Required
25%
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