107-085 Australian Cinema

Usually 12.5 points of first-year cinema studies.

This subject reviews the history of Australian cinema from its beginnings in the early silent period to the present. Students should become familiar with early film history; the 1970s renaissance; the road movie; gender, race and sexuality; feminist and independent film-making. These areas will be discussed in the context of national identity and the growing debates around what constitutes a national cinema.

• be skilled in critical thinking and analysis;

• possess effective written communication skills;

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

A 2000 word tutorial paper 40% (due during the semester) and a 3000 word essay 60% (due during the examination period).

• S Dermody & E Jacks, The Screening of Australia Vols 1 & 2. Currency Press 1987.