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Film Analysis 2: Australian Cinema (FITV12-230)
2011

Texts

Contemporary Australian Cinema: An Introduction !$!Jonathan Rayner!$! !$!!$!

Description

In this subject, students will undertake a critical investigation of the history of Australian film, focusing mainly on post -1970 cinema. Through a program of screenings, lectures and discussions, students will examine a diverse range of Australian films and filmmakers, and explore the connections between recurrent themes in Australian cinema and Australian history, society and culture.

Students will learn to analyse modes of representation and to recognise generic and stylistic patterns in key feature films. They will also learn to recognise visual and other devices such as the use of landscape in developing character and symbolism, and to assess the contribution of feature films to the concept of national identity.

Assessment

Two Comparative Film Analyses , each of around 1000 words, in which students compare and contrast treatment of themes and issues of relevance to Australian society

40%

Tutorial Presentation: students will make a 20- minute oral presentation on a film viewed in class,using audiovisual materials to support their views.They will relate their chosen film to other Australian and overseas films, and will identify generic and thematic characteristics and the use of filmic techniques to evoke emotional response.

20%

Researched Essay: This will comprise approximately 1500 - 2000 words on a selected topic, showing the links between the films and/or filmmakers under discussion and a major theme or themes in Australian film history

20%

Viewing Test: Students will view two extracts, each of approximately 10 minutes duration, and will then write a commentary of 1200 to 1500 words on the ways that these extracts represent and illustrate key themes, comparing their treatment to other films viewed or discussed during the course.

20%

Supplementary Texts

Readings and references will be distributed in class, and are also listed under resources on iLearn

Other Details

January and September Trimesters

Offered in: 2010
Levels: Undergraduate
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