Frame by Frame: The Criterion Collection
What makes a film “essential?” In this course, we’ll explore a selection of films from the iconic Criterion Collection. These are works that have been specifically chosen based on their contributions to cinema history through innovation, cultural impact, and artistic vision. Spanning countries, decades, and genres, these films will serve as entry points into key ideas in cinema studies, including auteurism, phenomenology, genre, and visual style. Each class will feature a lecture unpacking the film’s historical and artistic significance, followed by a screening and student-led group discussion. Whether you’re new to these films or revisiting them, this course invites you to deepen your understanding of what makes cinema an art form.
Detroit Hamell, MA, MS
Detroit Hamell earned a Master of Arts in Cinema Studies from the NYU Tisch School of the Arts and a Master of Science in Adolescent Education from the Pace University School of Education, where he received certification in English Language Arts and Theater Arts and was honored with the 2026 Outstanding Student of the Year Award. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies from Pace University in Manhattan and plans to continue his scholarly work by pursuing a doctorate in Cinema Studies.
Detroit's journey with cinema began at the Jacob Burns Media Arts Lab as a fourth grader, where he first discovered his passion for storytelling and filmmaking. Since 2018, he has worked as an educator at the Media Arts Lab, helping young filmmakers develop both their technical skills and creative voices. His work has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Jacob Burns New Lens Award, Best Director and Best Picture at NYLIFF, and Best Director at the Revolution Me Film Festival. He is also a published poet whose work was recognized with the Sarah Willis Award.