Topics in Film 2

Description

This is an intermediate module, which introduces the superhero as an aspect of academic film study. Each lecture will focus on specific sub-topic of the genre, introducing key concepts, central themes and ideas in context of the primary readings and screenings. These include, but are not limited to, race, gender, and sexual orientation, the mythological and the historical superhero, the anti-hero and the wannabe, the rogue and the villain, and cultural, political, and historical connections. Our group seminars will be based on focused analysis of specific films in context of the ideas, theories, and filmic techniques set out in each week’s lecture. Full details of primary and secondary screenings will be provided on Moodle by start of term. Please note that you are expected to watch the screenings in your own time as all of the assigned films are easily available either online or for purchase. All primary readings will be posted on Moodle either as URLs or as PDFs. Extended secondary bibliography will also be provided. Students who choose to prepare for the course ahead of term are advised to view as many superhero films as they have the time and energy for. We may not cover each and every film you have watched, but extended knowledge of the genre will make discussions more fun and the appreciation and grasp of the subject greater. If you still have a free moment? Read some comics!