Since its inception in 2009, Arts and Events Programming’s (AEP) History on Film series has hosted free screenings of films based on varying historical events and themes involving contemporary Canadian and American history.

This semester, they’ve added an element of classical history, with a specific focus on the Greek and Roman empires.

“All screenings are open to anyone who would like to attend – ‘cause film screenings are fun!” emphasized Julie Witt, the events planning and management co-ordinator.

The series originated as an initiative from U.S. history professor Christine Berkowitz and Canadian history professor Chris Pennington. Joining them this semester is classical history professor Katherine Blouin.

“We began the series to provide an opportunity for students enrolled in the U.S. and Canadian history survey courses to view assigned films in an atmosphere comparable to the movie theatre,” said Berkowitz.

Since there is limited time during classes to watch assigned films, the History on Film series allows students to watch these films while being engaged in a critical way.

The film screenings are held in the Leigha Lee Browne Theatre (LLBT), which is a great venue to provide an authentic movie experience. Students can enjoy free bags of popcorn to enjoy while watching the films. Prior to each screening, a corresponding professor will give a short talk that contextualizes the film by revealing cool and interesting trivia facts. There is also an opportunity for discussion with fellow fans of history that would not be available if the viewing was at home.

“These movies were selected both because they deal with issues and events discussed in several HST and CLA courses, and are interesting cinematographic works in themselves. As such, they can appeal to anyone interested not only in history but also in cinema,” said Blouin, who is also a program director for classical studies. Upcoming films include epic war dramas like Passchendaele and Apocalypse Now or Hypatia, a biopic about a Greek female philosopher.

The most recent screening involved the 1960 film Spartacus, starring the chin-dimpled Kirk Douglas as a revolutionary gladiator and directed by the eccentric Stanley Kubrick. The movie actually launched Kubrick’s successful long running career in Hollywood.

Since it was released during the Cold War when Hollywood movies were subjected to rigorous censorship regulations, some scenes were banned in the U.S. These scenes involved gory battle sequences and a bath scene conversation that alluded to elements of homosexuality between a Roman general and his personal slave.

“Watching films can be a great way for students to engage with history in a critical way, as long as they are aware of the fictional dimension of such works,” said Blouin.

Visit www.aeplive.ca for more information and upcoming events.