107-082 The Entertainment Experience

Usually 12.5 points of first-year cinema studies. For cultural studies students 50 points of first-year arts including at least 25 points from a specified list of subject areas.

This subject will look at the interconnection between various entertainment industries. The focus will be on the emergence and significance of 'high concept' as a production and marketing strategy. The implications of the crossover between the film, television, comic book, computer game and theme park industries will also be explored. Students who complete this subject should be able to evaluate critical and theoretical frameworks in response to the shape of entertainment structures. Students will examine the central role played by new technologies in the cinema; the science fictional nature of the film medium; computer games and the collapse of linear narrative flow; the applicability of film spectatorship/identification theories in relation to these more interactive media forms, and explore alternative models of analysis, including entertainment media's relationship to the silent 'Cinema of attractions'.

• be skilled in critical thinking and analysis,

• possess effective written communication skills,

• have an understanding of social, ethical and cultural context.

A 1500 word tutorial paper 40% (due during the semester), and a 2500 word essay or website 60% (due during examination period).

A subject reader will be available.