This course examines how film both reflects and shapes the perception of society about the sexuality of black women. It explores three black film movements-the pre-Civil Rights era; the 1970s Blaxploitation era; and the black film culture that has emerged since the 1980s-from and historical, sociological, and psychological perspective, illustrating each movement with screenings and discussion. Films are examined from the point of view of their cultural archetypal "feminine" coding, their "messages" and influence, and how audiences responded to them. The course will also examine films from the economic and social context in which they were made and the conditions under which they were produced. Students will expand their media literacy skills by learning to develop a critical eye as consumers of media images.