| Unit name | Contemporary European Cinema |
|---|---|
| Unit code | MODL10009 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | C/4 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Ms. Taylor |
| Open unit status | Open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Modern Languages |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
This unit introduces students to contemporary European cinema. It explores some of the "blockbusters" of recent years against the backdrop of national film industries and develops the distinct and common features of a variety of films made in Europe between 1990 and the present. The following general issues are addressed: what makes a film a blockbuster; what are the dominant themes; what are the implications of filmmaking in Europe; and how does the film language differ from American blockbusters. Films to be studied may include: Boyle: Trainspotting (1996), Tykwer: Run Lola Run (1998), Almodovar: All About my Mother (1999) and Jeunet: Amelie (2001).
Aims:
Through the study of a minimum of eight cinematic texts, this unit aims to introduce students to European cinema in its national context and to teach them how to approach film in an informed critical manner. Lectures on individual films will be complemented by generic lectures on theoretical and cultural aspects of film production and criticism. Students will gain an understanding of European cinema in its historical dimension, learn to appreciate aspects of how films are made, and develop their ability to analyse and interpret visual texts.
This unit is taught over 12 weeks of two contact hours per week, which will include Lectures and Seminars.
One essay of 2500 - 3000 words (75%); one individual presentation/ Commentary on one aspect of European cinema (25%).
Presentations will take place throughout the teaching block
Essay to be submitted at the end of the teaching block
Criteria for the award of credit points: satisfactory attendance, completion of course work, presentation and commentary.
Films:
UK: Trainspotting Danny Boyle 1996
Italy Mediterraneo Gabriele Salvatores 1991
Russia Brother 1 and Brother 2 Balabanov 1997/ 2000
Germany Run, Lola Run Twyker 1998
Spain All about my mother Alodovar
France Amélie Jeunet 2001
Denmark Europa Lars Von Triers 1991
