The occult on screen

About this course

The course considers how magic, witchcraft, spiritualism and other occult ideas have been represented in Western film and recent television. It examines early cinema, horror, fantasy, surrealism, art cinema, popular film and avant-garde work, alongside selected directors and films including Haxan, Rosemary’s Baby, The Craft and The Love Witch. Teaching combines extracts from films, tutor-led talks, reading materials and discussions in small and large groups. Critical approaches are used to examine the cultural context of occult imagery and the ways films position these themes within different genres.

What you'll learn

• Evaluate representations of the occult in Western cinema and recent television
• Analyse how occult themes operate within horror and other genres
• Discuss key films and filmmakers associated with occult subjects
• Explain cultural contexts surrounding the occult on screen
• Apply critical frameworks to the study of occult cinema

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to learners at all levels and is intended for people with an enthusiasm for film. Participation includes viewing extracts, listening to talks and contributing to discussions in both small and large groups.

• Open to learners at all levels
• Includes discussion-based class activities
• Covers both film and recent television

Before you go

• Worksheets are provided.
• Researching the subject before the course may be useful but is not essential.
• The tutor may advise on further reading and viewing.