760-425 Film and Philosophy

Formerly available as 760-422 A Focussed Study in the Media. Students who have completed 760-422 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. BA students may credit this subject to a Cinema Studies major.

For BCA students 12.5 points of second year visual media. For BA students 37.5 points of second/third year cinema studies or admission to the BA (Honours) in cinema studies.

This subject looks at how a number of influential philosophical concepts have permeated (and been exemplified) in recent cinema. The subject begins by examining the ideas of Plato, and through an examination of mimesis and memory explores how his philosophical legacy endures in the representations of popular and experimental film, and reshaped within the context of postmodern practice.

• identify the aesthetic and philosophical precepts of contemporary cinema;

• demonstrate a developed and analytical understanding of issues relating to the literal and metaphorical representation of philosophical ideas in contemporary cinema;

• express a broadened awareness of modernist and postmodernist aesthetics and artistic practice in respect of contemporary filmmaking; and

• make informed critical judgements about such films.

Written work equivalent to 4000 words for 3rd year, and 5000 words for 4th year, comprising two essays of equal length 50% each (one due mid semester and the second due at end of semester).

A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of semester.