I took French Cinema 141 in winter quarter and it was a really interesting class. We focused on the New Wave films and Gans gave some very thorough lectures. I liked him a lot, but it is sometimes difficult to understand him as he tends to mumble. He's a snappy dresser, though. The class should have been just once a week- the second class was just a repeat of the first and it was always a bore. The workload was light (2 papers that were 6 pages each). He grades pretty leniently, which is a plus. He said he was retiring, but on the fall 2013 registrar he is scheduled to teach a class.... Take him if you can- he's got a great sense of humor.

Very unhelpful. He really did not seem to care about his students or how they were doing in class. Also very unhelpful outside of class. Not interested in talking to or helping students AT ALL. He was also a little rude and condescending. The class itself was pretty easy though. Two short papers and participation points (which basically consists of saying "here" during roll call) are all that is required.

I like this guy. He's like a French-speaking George Costanza. At the beginning I admit I wasn't sure about him, but as the quarter progressed I realized he's hilarious and extremely sharp. He themed our French cinema class on female directors. Every film he showed was directed by a woman. I thought this was a very interesting take on the class. It was better than I expected. The only thing I didn't like much about this class is that he showed the same film twice a week. I wish it was a once-a-week class so that we could cut the B.S. Just my two cents, I guess. Overall, he's a nice guy. Very reasonable, very understanding, and very knowledgeable. I recommend this class if you need credits with a light workload.

I took French 141: French Cinema with Professor Gans. He was an interesting character with a New York accent. I loved the films he showed! At first I was afraid of the first film, but I began to love French Cinema! It's fun to learn about the actors/directors too. He shows 10 films. This class is not a lot of work--just one chapter to read a week from your textbook. (You can get away with not having the textbook, but I always read). No quizzes/tests, just 2 papers (6 pages each) that are worth 75% of your grade (1st paper=35%, 2nd paper=40%). Class went by quickly and it was always a pleasure watching the films with handsome actors. My only complaint was that I felt the professor graded a bit harshly. Most of the class got B's on the papers and I received an A/A-. I got an A- in the class. Also, try to sit in the front of the classroom...for a better view and to hear the professor better. :) Overall, it was a great great class and I loved it! :)