COMM 2020 Introduction to Film Studies

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 100964

Coordinator Alex Ling Opens in new window

Description The subject will introduce students to the key theoretical strands of film studies and key concepts in the analysis of film. The subject will explore techniques of narrative, performance, genre, realism and spectatorship, as well as introducing methods to analyse the use of editing, cinematography and sound. A case study of a key historical film movement or genre will introduce students to the study of cinema in its cultural contexts. The subject will also address the transformations in screen cultures as a result of digital technologies and new media.

School Humanities & Comm Arts

Discipline Audio Visual Studies

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp

Check your fees via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 2 subject

Restrictions

Successful completion of 40 credit points of study in currently enrolled program.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  1. explain key theoretical concepts in film studies
  2. apply key concepts to an active viewing and analysis of film and video
  3. demonstrate skills necessary for research and writing on cinema
  4. show knowledge of at least one film movement and genre
  5. think critically about the screen cultures they encounter in everyday life.

Subject Content

- key concepts in film theory: montage, mise en scene, style, genre, sound, performance, representation, narrative.
- key theoretical strands of screen studies.
- A major film movement or genre.
- Transformations in screen cultures as result of digital technologies and new media.

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Type Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Critical Review 1,200 words 35 N Individual
Quiz 30 minutes 20 N Individual
Essay 1,600 words 45 N Individual

Prescribed Texts

Set readings for each week will be available on vUWS. There is no printed subject reader for this subject.

Teaching Periods

Spring (2024)

Parramatta - Victoria Rd

On-site

Subject Contact Alex Ling Opens in new window

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