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Film Research

The following guide introduces students to conducting research on films.

Background Information

Background information can help you prepare for your research by explaining issues related to your topic, especially when you're investigating a field or topic you aren't familiar with. Here are some tips on doing background research:

  • Collect keywords or important terms, concepts, and author names to use when searching databases.
  • Start thinking in broad terms, then narrow down your topic. 
  • Look at bibliographies to guide you to other sources of information (books, articles, etc.)

You can use these reference databases to get to know your films.  Be sure to search these databases with multiple keywords - directors, film titles, film elements. Remember that off-campus access will require login.

Like to Browse?

Browse this call number in the reference stacks:

REF 791.43

Remember that reference books are library use only!

Reference Books

The Mt. SAC Library purchases reference books on many topics.  Librarians can help you find reference books appropriate to your topic.  Stop by the Reference Desk for assistance.

A small sample of reference books follows, but remember you will find many more volumes in the reference collection.