This module develops your understanding of some of the diverse ways that film is produced and received. It introduces you to the key concepts and principles in the study of the construction of films, their communication processes and how they are interpreted by audiences. Areas for exploration may include semiotics, representation, film institutions, genre, adaptation, authorship, stardom, national cinemas, and innovative technologies using a variety of case studies from different global production contexts.

You will also develop an ability to communicate your interpretation of film texts through written pieces and different discussions. The module encourages a deep analysis of film texts through close research, academic reading and referencing in order to examine different concepts. The module also considers alternative film readings by encouraging respect for and engagement with the views of different practitioners and critics. As a result, the module is designed to enhance your understanding of film communication and your ability to communicate about it.

ASSESSMENT ONE: ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY
An Annotated Bibliography providing a summary of different academic source texts and their research relevance.

LOs (Learning Outcomes): 1, 4 30%.

ASSESSMENT TWO: CRITICAL ANALYSIS
A Critical Analysis of film, drawing upon relevant theories and concepts with reference to academic sources.

LOs (Learning Outcomes): 1-4 70%.

The module’s learning is based on a combination of mixed mode teaching sessions to introduce and explore different key topics and concepts around film analysis. These will provide an opportunity for greater interaction and discussion by building on a range of activities. Guided Independent Study may include film screenings and wider reading in preparation for taught sessions. Tutorials will also be offered to provide opportunities for guided support in relation to a chosen case study film.

1. Demonstrate a contextual knowledge of film theories and concepts through an application to debates and the development of a coherent argument.
Knowledge and Understanding, Learning

2. Critically analyse a range of cinematic texts to evaluate and interpret meaning in relation to different production and audience contexts using appropriate analytical and technical terminologies.
Analysis

3. Communicate the analysis of film accurately and in a structured written format.
Communication

4. Select and apply different film related academic research sources to support and articulate critical analysis research applications.
Application

Library resources and electronic reading lists
Blackboard virtual learning environment
Box of Broadcasts.

Bordwell, D. et. al. (2019) Film Art, 12th ed., New York: McGraw-Hill.
Cook, P. (2007) The Cinema Book, 3rd ed., London: BFI.
Dix, A. (2016) Beginning Film Studies, 2nd ed., Manchester: Manchester University Press.
Hayward, S. (2017) Cinema Studies, 5th ed., London: Routledge.
Monaco, J. (2009) How to Read a Film, 4th ed., Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Sikov, E. (2020) Film Studies, 2nd ed., New York: Columbia University Press.

Please see the module handbook for a full listing of reading texts.

Creative Film Contexts is an exciting exploration of how cinema can be analysed and deconstructed to establish how diverse types of meaning are being produced for audiences. This includes looking at: representation, genre, adaptation, authorship, stardom, and modern technologies. You will learn about the appeal of film and how producers engage with their audiences.