Module overview
This module is primarily concerned with familiarising you with the basic principles of film form, narrative and style, as well as key methodologies of film analysis. The module introduces different stylistic elements and varied modes of filmmaking, including the specific form and techniques of the Classical Hollywood style. As a whole the module cover a diverse selection of films.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- key methodologies of film analysis and critical contexts
- varied modes of filmmaking, including the specific form and techniques of the Classical Hollywood style
- basic principles of film form, narrative and style
- specialist terminology for formal elements of audio-visual language
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- describe formal elements of audio-visual language and different filmmaking modes using specialist terminology
- interpret how different elements of film form, narrative and style work together to create meaning
- engage with and apply critical methodologies covered in the module
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- effectively research a topic or issue
- construct a reasoned, well argument based on research and analysis of audio and visual texts
Syllabus
The module will cover different modes of filmmaking and diverse filmic traditions. The first five weeks will be concerned with the basics of film language and techniques of textual analysis. The following weeks will focus on other methodologies of film analysis and key critical contexts.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include
- Lectures
- Screenings
- Seminars
Learning activities include
- Independent study and viewing
- Critical thinking, reading and writing
- Engagement in seminar discussions as both speaker and listener
- Preparation of written assignments
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Teaching | 70 |
Independent Study | 230 |
Total study time | 300 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
David Bordwell and Kristin Thompson (2007). Film Art: An Introduction. New York: McGraw-Hill Inc..
Pam Cook (ed.) (2007). The Cinema Book. London: British Film Institute.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
- assessments and seminars designed to provide informal, on-module feedback
- advice on essay topics and plans
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Essay | 40% |
Audio-visual assessment | 30% |
Essay | 30% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Resubmit assessments | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Resubmit assessments | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External