Module #1 Introduction to Critical Film Theory Explore the foundations of critical film theory, its importance, and its relevance in understanding film as an art form and a medium for social commentary.
Module #2 Film Theory:A Historical Overview Delve into the historical development of film theory, from the early days of cinema to contemporary approaches, highlighting key figures and movements.
Module #3 Marxist Film Theory Analyze the principles of Marxist film theory, including the concept of ideology, commodity fetishism, and the role of cinema in perpetuating capitalist ideologies.
Module #4 Psychoanalytic Film Theory Examine the application of psychoanalytic theories to film, including the work of Sigmund Freud and Lacan, and their relevance to understanding spectatorship and cinematic pleasure.
Module #5 Feminist Film Theory Explore the core concepts of feminist film theory, including the gendered gaze, patriarchal ideology, and the representation of women in cinema.
Module #6 Postcolonial Film Theory Discuss the key concerns of postcolonial film theory, including issues of representation, Otherness, and the legacy of colonialism in cinematic narratives.
Module #7 Queer Film Theory Investigate the principles of queer film theory, including the concept of queer spectatorship, camp, and the subversive potential of queer cinema.
Module #8 Structuralism and Post-Structuralism in Film Theory Examine the contributions of structuralism and post-structuralism to film theory, including the work of Roland Barthes and Michel Foucault.
Module #9 Cultural Studies and Film Theory Explore the intersection of cultural studies and film theory, including the analysis of popular culture, identity, and power relations.
Module #10 Auteur Theory and the Directors Vision Investigate the concept of auteur theory, its relevance to understanding film authorship, and the role of the director in shaping cinematic meaning.
Module #11 Genre Theory and Film Classification Analyze the significance of genre theory in understanding film classification, audience expectations, and the cultural context of film production.
Module #12 Narrative Theory and Film Storytelling Examine the principles of narrative theory, including storytelling structures, character development, and the role of narration in shaping cinematic meaning.
Module #13 Spectatorship and the Cinematic Experience Explore the complexities of spectatorship, including the role of the audience, cinematic pleasure, and the social and cultural context of film consumption.
Module #14 Film and Ideology:Propaganda and Message Films Investigate the ways in which films can be used as tools of propaganda, convey ideological messages, and shape public opinion.
Module #15 Film and Identity:Race, Class, Gender, and Sexuality Analyze the representation of identity in film, including issues of race, class, gender, and sexuality, and their relation to social justice and inequality.
Module #16 Film and History:Representing the Past Examine the ways in which films represent historical events, figures, and periods, and the implications of these representations for our understanding of the past.
Module #17 Film and Technology:The Impact of Digital Cinema Investigate the impact of digital technology on filmmaking, distribution, and consumption, including the rise of streaming services and virtual cinema.
Module #18 Film and Philosophy:Ethics, Aesthetics, and Ontology Explore the intersection of film and philosophy, including the ethics of representation, the aesthetics of cinematic experience, and the ontology of film as a medium.
Module #19 Case Study:Applying Critical Film Theory to a Film Select a film and apply the concepts and theories covered in the course to analyze its themes, meanings, and significance.
Module #20 Film and Culture:Globalization and Transnational Cinema Analyze the impact of globalization on film production, distribution, and consumption, including the rise of transnational cinema and global film industries.
Module #21 Film and Society:The Role of Cinema in Social Change Examine the ways in which films can contribute to social change, including the representation of social issues, advocacy, and activism.
Module #22 Film and Ethics:The Responsibilities of Filmmakers Investigate the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers, including issues of representation, appropriation, and the impact of filmmaking on individuals and communities.
Module #23 Critical Film Theory in Practice:Annotated Film Analysis Apply critical film theory to a film analysis, including a detailed annotated commentary on the films themes, motifs, and cinematic techniques.
Module #24 Advanced Topics in Critical Film Theory Explore advanced topics in critical film theory, including the intersection of film with other art forms, emerging trends, and new directions in film scholarship.
Module #25 Course Wrap-Up & Conclusion Planning next steps in Critical Film Theory career
