Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
Yes
This module aims to provide a critical introduction to many of the key theoretical ideas and historical contexts informing the development of science fiction cinema. Focusing on a number of significant films from the history of cinema, the module will look to define what constitutes science fiction as a film genre. In particular, we will consider science fiction cinema's function as a mode for exploring ideas and hypotheses, both about the future and - by reflection - about our present. We will also engage with debates about the status of science-fiction cinema ('sci-fi') in relation to science-fiction literature ('SF'), analysing their differences, and looking at the particular relationships viewers and readers have to science-fictional texts.
Aims
To develop an extensive knowledge of science fiction cinema as a specific area of film and cultural production, and to develop critical and analytical skills for assessing this cinema in its historical and cultural contexts; to be able to contribute to debates about the place and role of science fiction as a cultural form, and the distinctions between science fiction cinema and literature; to be able to compose detailed critical analyses of science-fiction texts, and produce reasoned written argument based on wide critical reading.
Talis Aspire Reading ListAny reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/fil-20005/lists
Intended Learning Outcomes
Situate film and theoretical texts in specific historical and cultural contexts: 1,2,Discuss and analyse texts in a comparative framework: 1,2,Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between cultural production and transformations in society, technology, politics and philosophy: 1,2,Identify key features of film language and form, and assess how these contribute to the meaning of films for audiences: 1,2,Reflect on their own viewing experiences and interests in an engaged and critical fashion: 1,2,Distinguish between the form and cultural significance of science fiction film and science fiction literature: 1,2,
12x1 hour lecture, 12x1 hour seminar, 5x2 hour screening, 1 hour individual tutorial/feedback15 hours for group study and project construction, 100 hours preparing for lectures, seminars and the essay.
Description of Module Assessment
1: Group Project weighted 30%1500 word case studyCase study on film chosen by student group from outside module-screened films
2: Essay weighted 70%2500 word essayOne essay to be chosen from a selection of approximately five questions, based on the films and themes discussed on the module