This course offers an introduction to Chinese cinema, including its history, major film movements, and key directors. Through lectures, discussions, and film screenings, students will explore the development of Chinese cinema from its earliest days to the present. Students will analyze the distinctive qualities of Chinese films, including their unique storytelling techniques, visual styles, and cultural themes. The course will cover a range of topics, including the historical, social, and political contexts of Chinese cinema, as well as the cultural exchanges and influences between China and other countries. By the end of the course, students will have  a foundational understanding of Chinese cinema, and will be equipped with the critical tools to analyze and appreciate Chinese films.