Module: FSS4100-20 Framing Film: Silence, Sound and Spectacle

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Stephen Manley

Module Tutor Contact Details: S.Manley@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module aims to provide you with a broad overview of the historical development of the medium of film, from its inception to the arrival of sound. It introduces students to the pioneering achievements of early film makers (Lumieres / Melies), to the rapid sophistication of the medium of ‘silent cinema’ (Porter / Griffith); the development of distinct ‘national’ cinematic traditions and industries (e.g. French / German / USSR / USA); the development of star-systems; and to the impact of the arrival of the ‘talkies’. It considers the current resurgence of interest in silent cinema in relation to areas such as restoration; festivals; musical scores; and archival materials.

2.Outline syllabus:

Topic areas may include: Early film; the ‘Cinema of Attractions’ and Early Narrative; the Rise of Hollywood and Narrative Cinema; German Expressionism; Soviet Cinema; French Impressionism; Stardom; Comedy; Experimental Film; the American Industry; the Arrival of Sound.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

You will attend one lecture and one seminar session per week. The lectures will be used to address key issues, theoretical approaches and relevant contextual material. The seminars will be used to clarify and discuss issues raised in the lecture and set weekly reading, and will also feature the screening and analysis of illustrative case-study film extracts. Timetabled sessions will also be devoted to assignment support and feedback on assessed coursework.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Archival project (2000 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay (2000 words)

• % Weighting: 50%