Author Description

Kinotalk: 21st Century is a cinema-based textbook that enhances students’ linguistic and cultural proficiency through guided studies of 12 Russian feature films released since the year 2000. Each chapter includes a series of original readings and activities that present captivating and thought-provoking frameworks in which students of Russian can practice and perfect all four language skills. While providing active stimuli for language production, the volume also aims to immerse students in the world of Russian cinema, society, and culture. Key features include: A broad cross-section of prominent films, directors, cinematic styles, trends, and genres that have emerged in Russia since 2000. A wide selection of authentic texts from Russian scholars and film critics that familiarize students with the language of critical film inquiry in Russian. A multi-disciplinary approach that combines close readings of individual films with considerations of the socio-political, ideological, and economic contexts of their production. A flexible and dynamic modular structure that allows instructors to pick and choose films and topics that are best suited for their classrooms. Aimed at the Intermediate-High to Advanced levels (B1-C1, CEFR levels), this textbook is designed for all those interested in the rich palette of voices, genres, and contexts of 21st-century Russian cinema.