Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Film Theory
SCQF level: 08:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: LMD08121
Module leader: C. Paul Sellors
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Screen and Performance
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

This module introduces you to a wide range of debates in Classical Film Theory. You will study theories that address fiction, nonfiction, and avant-garde filmmaking. Many of the works you will read are written by filmmakers. The module begins with a study of film form, such as editing, sound, and cinematography, and the implications formal choices have, for instance, for narration, motion, depth, and temporality. Following this foundation you will study debates about realism, structural semiotics and film language, and spectators' emotional engagements with film. This module is equally suitable for those studying film practice and film as an academic discipline, and makes no assumptions about your technical knowledge of film technology or practice. Where an understanding of technology or practice is required to understand a theory, it will be covered in class.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Comprehend the relationships between film theory and film practice.

LO2: Develop insight into the principles of narrative construction in film.

LO3: Explore connections between realism in film and film form.

LO4: Explore connections between film form and meaning.

LO5: Discuss relationships between film and other forms of art and communication.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: C. Paul Sellors
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 33 During the lecture you will consolidate your understanding of the theories you read each week through not only the delivery of a lecture, but also through filmic illustration and student engagement. Although classified as lectures, the lectures function more like seminar classes. Student questions and arguments guide class content significantly.
Online Guided independent study 167 The syllabus lists required readings you are expected to read and take notes on each week. These readings prepare you for both the lectures, and for your assessments, as both assessments require you only to discuss works read in class. Recommended readings, film clips, and other materials are available also so that you can supplement your core reading, should you wish to do so. Lastly, you are expected to review reading and lecture notes following class to consolidate your learning.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Essay 40 1~2~4~5 Week 6 , WORDS= 1500 Essay 1 assesses students ability to comprehend theory, and to evaluate relationships between form and meaning
Essay 60 1~2~3~4~5 Week 13 , WORDS= 2500 Essay 2 builds on the objectives of essay 1 by requiring students to develop an understanding of the complexities of debates about realism and evaluate the relationship between realism and form.
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Film Theory
 

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