FILM HISTORY & THEORY

Description:

This course explores the evolution of cinema, from its early beginnings to contemporary filmmaking, analyzing major movements, influential directors, and technological advancements. Students will examine key theoretical frameworks, including realism, formalism, and auteur theory, to understand how films communicate meaning and reflect cultural contexts. Through screenings, discussions, and critical analysis, learners will develop a deeper appreciation of cinematic art and its impact on society.

Course code: BFS1101

Course credit: 10

Assessment type: Quiz & Forum
Pre-requisites : None

Academic year 2024-2025

Lecturer: Kathambi Justina

Course Objectives:

  1. Understand the Evolution of Cinema:

    • Examine the historical development of cinema, from its inception in the late 19th century through to the present day.
    • Explore the key movements, innovations, and shifts in the film industry that shaped the global landscape of film production, distribution, and consumption.

  2. Analyze Film Genres and Styles:

    • Identify and analyze various film genres (e.g., drama, comedy, horror, science fiction) and stylistic elements (e.g., expressionism, realism, formalism).
    • Understand how different genres and styles have evolved in response to cultural, social, and technological changes.

  3. Explore Major Filmmakers and Their Influence:

    • Investigate the contributions of significant filmmakers, directors, and producers to the development of cinema.
    • Understand the impact of key figures such as D.W. Griffith, Orson Welles, Alfred Hitchcock, Akira Kurosawa, and others on the theory and practice of filmmaking.

  4. Engage with Film Theory and Criticism:

    • Examine major schools of film theory, such as formalism, structuralism, post-structuralism, feminism, and psychoanalysis.
    • Apply critical theory to analyze films in terms of ideology, narrative structure, symbolism, and aesthetics.

  5. Understand the Relationship Between Cinema and Society:

    • Explore the ways in which film reflects, critiques, and influences society and culture, addressing topics like race, gender, class, and politics.
    • Investigate the social and cultural impact of cinema on public opinion, identity, and social movements.

Course Learning Outcomes  

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Analyze the historical development of cinema, including major movements, genres, and technological advancements.
  • Evaluate key film theories, such as realism, formalism, auteur theory, and structuralism, to interpret cinematic meaning.
  • Critically assess the works of influential filmmakers and their impact on the evolution of film as an art form.
  • Examine the social, political, and cultural influences on film production and reception across different eras and regions.
  • Apply film theory concepts to analyze and critique films from various historical periods.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of cinematic techniques, including editing, cinematography, and mise-en-scène, in relation to storytelling and meaning-making.
  • Develop well-supported arguments in written and verbal film analyses, using appropriate academic frameworks.