Ways into advanced film studies: film theory

About this course

The course traces film theory from early debates about cinema as art through the emergence of academic film studies and later approaches. Topics include André Bazin, psychoanalytic, Marxist and feminist theory, questions of nation and race, spectatorship and recent developments. Film extracts are used to clarify complex ideas, alongside tutor presentations, supplied readings and discussions in smaller and larger groups. Learners will examine key theoretical terms and apply them when analysing films. Directed reading and viewing outside class form part of the course.

What you'll learn

• Explain how film theory developed from early writing about cinema into an academic field.
• Compare theoretical approaches including psychoanalytic, Marxist and feminist film theory.
• Identify key debates about film as a distinct art form.
• Apply selected theoretical terms when analysing films.
• Describe significant contemporary developments in film theory.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners expanding existing film studies knowledge and is not aimed at beginners. It involves tutor-led teaching, film analysis, reading, viewing and discussion in both small and large groups, with some work outside class.

• Presupposes some previous familiarity with film studies.
• Includes directed reading and viewing outside class.
• May suit learners considering further film studies, including at university level.

Before you go

• Learners need a pen and paper, or a laptop or other device.
• Handouts and other course materials are provided.
• Film extracts are shown during the course, so learners do not need to obtain them.