Module description
The centrality of stardom and performance to all areas of the cinema – industrial, sociological, textual, spectatorial – has long been recognized, while star studies, performance studies and celebrity studies are now substantial fields within Film Studies. This module explores key areas of stardom and screen performance and the relationship between the two.
The module has a historical dimension (the rise and evolution of the star system internationally, comparing Hollywood with Europe and India), a theoretical one (exploring concepts such as ‘star image’ and ‘performance signs’), and a strong socio-cultural dimension. In particular we will be concerned with the links between stardom and gender, race (including whiteness) and aging, national identity and film genre (in particular romantic comedy and film noir). Case studies will range from Hollywood, French cinema and British cinema, to the global impact of celebrity culture (reaching out beyond the cinema, including political celebrity).
Assessment details
2000 word essay (25%)
3000 word essay (60%)
Participation (15%)
Educational aims & objectives
The centrality of stardom and performance to all areas of the cinema - industrial, sociological, textual, spectatorial - has long been recognised, while 'star studies' as well as 'performance studies' have become legitimate and complex areas of film studies. This module explores key areas of stardom and performance and the relationship between the two, conducting a survey of the main parameters of the field through a number of case studies (these will vary according to staff expertise, and students will be encouraged to develop essays on case studies beyond those examined in class). The module has both a historical dimension (the rise and evolution of the Hollywood star system are an essential component, but so are deviations from it) and a theoretical one - exploring concepts such as 'star image', 'performance signs', the specificity of film acting (in relation to the theatre), reception and fandom. Reading will encompass founding texts (Morin and especially Dyer), more recent work on stardom (Gledhill, deCordova, Butler, McDonald, Stacey) and work on stardom in other national cinemas (Babington, Spicer, Vincendeau, Carter), as well as the developing field of performance studies (Affron, Naremore, Brewster and Jacobs, Pearson, Kramer and Lovell). The aim is thus to study the phenomena of stardom and performance in their industrial, semiotic and sociological dimensions, as well as in their national specificities, with the accent on Hollywood and Europe.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable and practical skills appropriate to a level 6 module and in particular will be able to: - Substantial knowledge of the origins and development of film stardom in Hollywood and Europe, in their industrial, textual and sociological dimensions. - Insights into the techniques and styles of film acting and the relationship between performance and stardom. - Substantial understanding of key academic texts on stardom and performance. - Knowledge of significant case studies and the ability to apply course parameters to other relevant case studies.
Teaching pattern
Ten two and a half-hour screenings, ten two-hour seminars
Suggested reading list
Core course readings will be provided.