107-087 Contemporary Australian Cinema

Strict deadlines apply to subjects taught during Winter Recess. The subject dates and HECS/course fee census date for this subject change each year. Check your enrolment record for the correct census date for this subject.

Usually 12.5 points of first-year cinema studies.

This subject explores the relationship between national identity and international film culture and specifically questions how filmic structures operate in Australian cinema to produce identities which have both local and international resonance. Students will examine the success of films such as Crocodile Dundee, Mad Max, The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Romper Stomper, and Strictly Ballroom, within the context of popular culture, queer theory, multiculturalism and identity politics. The representation of race will form an additional focus of study. The films of Australian directors working in Hollywood such as Gillian Armstrong and Baz Luhrmann will also form an area of study.

• 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 semester) and a 3000 word essay 60% (due during the examination period).

A subject reader will be available.