Film studies taster
We will view clips from a wide variety of films, exploring themes and technique in British cinema and modern American cinema. There will be a chance to review term one film courses at City Lit (September - December 2021).
This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
This course has now finished
Course Code: HF212
Duration: 1 session
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Center for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
Cinema is not only entertainment, it is the art and culture of our time. For anyone interested in history, narrative and images – and how to interpret them – film studies is the ideal course for constructing an argument or practical criticism. We’re surrounded by narratives and pictures; film studies will give you the tools to understand and analyse them.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
There’s a reason why film has become one of the defining art forms of our generation, and created so many iconic images in pop culture. See where film fits into culture, the relationship between film and gender, as well as different styles of writing and directing.
We will explore contemporary cinema and current releases: mainstream, arthouse and world cinema.
-Style and technique and the use of music, editing and camera e.g. close-up vs. crane shot.
-Film theory and film history as a valid means to widen your world view.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Have a clearer idea of what is involved when studying film
-Discuss key concepts in the study of film
- Consider film courses on offer at City Lit for September-December 2021.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is a taster: no previous background in film studies is expected. Anyone with an interest in film is welcome.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Opening talk and a variety of film clips; group discussion.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
None. A notepad or device to take notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Look for other Film Studies courses under Film Studies/History Culture and Writing/Film Studies at www.citylit.ac.uk.
John Wischmeyer (MA in Film Theory) set up, ran and programmed his own cinema in West London and has since taught film studies at the former Gainsborough studio, the BFI and City Lit since 1999, Hitchcock’s centenary year. John has covered a wide range film topics under the banner ‘Cinema Investigates America’ and has a particular interest in and considerable knowledge of Hitchcock, Hollywood studios, American independent cinema and film noir, film technique and style.
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.