Film Genre: Screwball Comedies

About this course

The course traces screwball comedy’s emergence during the studio era and considers how the genre addressed love, gender, class and politics within the constraints of the Production Code. Sessions examine influential films including It Happened One Night, Bringing Up Baby, His Girl Friday and The Philadelphia Story, alongside the work of directors such as Frank Capra, Howard Hawks, Preston Sturges and Leo McCarey. Teaching combines tutor introductions, film extracts, analysis of longer sequences, reading materials and small- and large-group discussion. An edited film remix is also used to prompt discussion of film style and technique.

What you'll learn

• Explain screwball comedy as a film genre
• Describe the genre’s historical development in relation to the studio era and Production Code
• Identify and evaluate significant screwball films, directors and performers
• Analyse elements of film style and technique in selected sequences

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at all levels and explicitly requires no particular skills or previous knowledge. It introduces the subject while also offering material for those extending existing film knowledge. Participation includes discussing films in small and larger groups.

• No previous film knowledge is required
• Includes both an introductory perspective and scope for learners extending existing knowledge
• Involves small- and large-group discussion

Before you go

• Film extracts are supplied, so learners do not need to obtain them.