Analyzing the City in Cinema: Urban Planning and West Side Story

How do the films we watch reflect the physical and social structures of our cities? Cinema does more than entertain—it documents urban history, community displacement, and the architectural shifts of our neighborhoods. This text-based course uses the classic narrative of West Side Story as a lens to explore the fundamental principles of urban planning, social geography, and city development. You will transition from a passive viewer to an active analyst of urban spaces, understanding how mid-century redevelopment projects shaped both the physical landscape and the social dynamics of modern cities. What you'll learn: - Analyze how cinematic settings reflect real-world urban planning decisions and historical neighborhoods. - Understand the foundational concepts of urban renewal, eminent domain, and community displacement. - Examine the social geography of cities, including territoriality, migration patterns, and neighborhood identity. - Evaluate the impact of mid-century transit, housing policies, and public space design on communities. - Apply modern urban planning frameworks to historical and cinematic contexts through written exercises. This course begins with foundational definitions of urban planning terms and historical context, establishing a solid baseline before moving into detailed scene-by-scene thematic analysis and policy evaluations. You will read structured breakdowns, engage with historical case studies, and complete analytical prompts designed to sharpen your critical thinking. This course is designed for beginners, film enthusiasts, and aspiring urban planners alike. No prior background in architecture, sociology, or urban design is required. Start reading today to discover how cinema reveals the hidden stories of our urban landscapes.