Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit focuses on some of the most influential works of cinema, from silent film to Hollywood cinema and both independent and mainstream film. It charts film's exciting and historically significant developments, providing a deep understanding of cinema's form and genres, and familiarises students with the central principles of film studies. Topics discussed include film narrative and mis-en-scene, editing and film sound, auteur theory, art-house cinema and national cinema, documentary and experimental film practice. Attention is also given to recent film theories to extend students' understandings of the socio-political significance of the medium and to progress their skills in close-reading and critical analysis.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2AlbanyFace to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 option in the English and Literary Studies major sequence
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate a sophisticated knowledge of key cinematic texts in relation to the historical and cultural conditions of their production and reception; (2) apply highly developed skills of textual analysis, critical reasoning, interpretation and research; (3) express ideas concisely and clearly in both oral and written formats; and (4) demonstrate and apply a wide-range of primary analytical concepts and terms that relate to cinema.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tutorial participation; (2) critical exercise; and (3) research essay. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Tanya Dalziell
Contact hours
3 hours per week
Note
Students impacted by COVID19 travel restrictions are asked to contact the unit coordinator for online options
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.