Introduction to FS5 – Studies in World Cinema A2 Film Studies Introduction to FS5 – Studies in World Cinema

Content Overview Learning in this unit focuses on the study of forms of cinema contrasting with those studied in other modules on this course, emphasising variety of film forms and institutional contexts and their significance in film history.

Content Overview Understanding and appreciation will be fostered through the development of skills in: Close observation, identification and analysis of characteristic features of different kinds of cinema. Recognising the significant ways in which the forms of cinema studied are distinctive from, and similar to, the mainstream commercial narrative form of Hollywood-type cinema. Placing the forms of cinema studied within a developing overview of film history and film culture. Reflecting on personal response to the pleasures and challenges these different forms of cinema offer.

Section A – Film Styles & Movements You will answer an examination question based on your study of one film style or movement (in this case, Surrealist & Fantasy cinema). The focus films chosen for your study of this style/movement, are the following:- Alice (Svankmajer, 1988) The Phantom of Liberty (Bunuel, 1974) (information on both films are on my blog - http://andreasmedia.wordpress.com)

Section B – Close Study: Contemporary World Cinema You will answer an examination question based on your close study of a single film (in this case ‘City of God, 2002’). Compared with section A of this unit, the primary emphasis is on close textual study with an exploration of meaning and response based primarily on the features of the film. As in FS3, this close study should be informed by appropriate contextual knowledge and understanding. This may reflect auteur, national cinema or institutional issues, as well as broader cultural and social framework.

Assessment Tasks You will sit a one and a half hour exam. Section A – Film Styles & Movements One essay in response to one of two questions. (30 marks). Section B – Close Study: Contemporary World Cinema One essay in response to your close study film. (20 marks).