The blockbuster and indie Star (1980 - 2000)
the blockbuster, stars again found a new type of fame and arguably became one of the key
points of interest for the movie-going audience. However, as blockbusters grew, so did
independent American cinema. The indie stars represented a very different version of
stardom, and in particular, drew attention to the appreciation of an actor’s performance.
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- Start Date: 14 Jun 2025End Date: 21 Jun 2025Sat (Daytime): 10:30 - 13:00OnlineFull fee £69.00 Senior fee £55.00 Concession £45.00
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What is the course about?
This online film studies course explores the role of film stardom during Hollywood’s blockbuster evolution. We will be exploring the careers of a selection of stars that have been overtly shaped by the blockbuster system and have made an impact on the history and appreciation of film stardom. Additionally, we will balance this star analysis by studying a very different type of star that rose to prominence during this time: the indie star.
We will follow a chronological order to assess the changes in the American film industry. Additionally, we will closely analyse stars in a variety of materials (film, magazines and advertisements) to understand how a persona is formed and maintained. Key areas to be examined are: star theory, performance, and film history. The sessions will also provide some biographical information on the stars and their place within the wider historical and cultural landscape of film.
What will we cover?
Throughout the course, you will be introduced to new ways of looking and thinking about film stardom, including an introduction to star theory (commodity, myth, symbol, representation, performance, and audience). Secondly, you will evaluate how extra-textual materials (magazine articles, posters, and advertisements etc.) develop the personality seen on film.
The course is chronological and will follow the evolution of the American film industry. Stars will include: Tom Cruise, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Goldie Hawn, Harrison Ford, Will Smith, Bruce Willis, Whoopi Goldberg, Kurt Russell, Christina Ricci, Kirsten Dunst, Parker Posey, and Steve Buscemi.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- evaluate extra-textual evidence and understand how it shapes a star’s persona
- conduct a basic formal analysis of an individual star
- understand and accurately articulate specialist terms used in the language of film
- demonstrate skills in close textual analysis
- gain insights into star theory
- appreciate the impact of historical contexts in the formulation of a star persona.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is for anyone interested in the topic of film stardom. The course is designed to follow ‘A Star is Born’, however, it will be accessible for all.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
There will be a short lecture with an accompanying PowerPoint. Secondly, film clips will be provided in the session and you will discuss these in both large and small groups. Lastly, there will be reading each week for further discussion and small group work.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs. Film scenes will be shown in the session.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
For other Film Studies courses please see our website at www.citylit.ac.uk/history, culture & writing/film studies.
Ann-Marie Fleming received her PhD in Film Studies from The University of Kent in 2019. She has taught multiple film courses on film history, style, and theory. She has published two articles in the Celebrity Studies Journal and a book chapter in Star Attractions, Twentieth-Century Movie Magazines and Global Fandom.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.