VAM5200

Historical Film Theory and Criticism (12 points)

(ARTS)

Leader: Deane Williams

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2003 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2004 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit examines some concepts in the history of film theory by considering a number of theoretical and critical writings in relation to a range of films. Topics for examination include early silent film theory, the notion of the historical avant-garde in the form of French impressionism, the film theories of Kracauer and Bazin, French new wave criticism, the neglected tradition of realist phenomenology in film theory, 1968 and the leftist turn and the question of film language and structuralism.

Assessment: Essay (4500 words): 45% + Second essay (4500 words): 45% + Seminar participation: 10% + Fifth year students will be expected to read more widely and work at a higher level.

Contact Hours: 2 hour seminar per week plus 2 hour screening

Prerequisites: 2 units at 2nd or 3rd year level in Visual Culture or Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies