ANY2170

Visualising cultures: film and ethnography

(ART)

Brett Hough

6 points + 3 hours per week + Second semester + Clayton + Prerequisite: Appropriate first-year ANY sequence or by permission + Prohibition COS2170

Synopsis: This unit explores the relation between film and ethnography by examining how cultures are 'visualised' - documented and represented on celluloid, usually in productions that are aimed at an educational audience rather than one that seeks pure entertainment. The ethical responsibilities of the filmmaker, the political dimension of filmic representation and the practical problems of recording another culture without 'exoticising' it will be studied. The unit also explores the issue of when visual representation can be more (or less) effective than textual discussions.

Assessment: Tutorial participation: 10% + Three film reviews (500 words each): 30% + One critical essay (2000 words): 40% + Examination (1 hour): 20%