107-421 Contemporary Film Theory

Formerly available as 107-096. Students who have completed 107-096 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours in cinema studies.

This subject will examine the development of contemporary film theory of the post-1968 period. Students will be expected to critically evaluate the significance and applicability of some of the following theoretical approaches: formalism and structuralism; apparatus theory; feminist film theory and spectatorship; Lacanian and Althusserian paradigms; postmodernism; queer, and postcolonial theory. In particular, the emphasis will be on redressing the balance in a tradition of film theories that have favoured vision over sound. Through the writings of Altman, Kassabian, Lastra and others, consideration will be given to the significance that film sound has in the context of film 'spectatorship', materiality, technology and interpretation. Students will attend seminars that involve a variety of approaches: close analysis, close readings, research, thesis writing, paper presentation. Finally, students will be required to present a paper based on a close reading of a specific film text with reference to its use of film language. Students will also conduct research into this film in relation to its production history, distribution and reception and relate their findings as to the place of the film within the history of film theory.

• possess advanced skills of critical thinking and analysis;

• develop their research and writing skills;

• be able to account for the relationship between the film industry and film form;

• possess an ability to communicate knowledge intelligibly, economically and effectively;

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

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