Module description
European film industries have consistently produced popular films and yet the most common perception of European cinema is one of arthouse production. This course redresses this misperception, building on research pioneered by the Film Studies Department at Kings College London. Putting the terms "popular"and "European" together illuminates them both. "Popular" means different things in different countries: it may refer to box office success, or local traditions, or particular class or niche tastes. Sometimes what is"popular" is said to express the character of a nation, while at other times it is seen as a corruption of such a national identity. In some countries popular films may be produced within a fully developed audiovisual industry, while in other nations they may depend, partly or entirely, on subsidy and policy aimed at nurturing indigenous popular traditions. Popular European cinemas usually operate most successfully in their countries of origin, but some have had limited or occasionally spectacular international success. And sometimes, films that are "popular" at home are nonetheless distributed in arthouse cinemas abroad,thereby confirming, especially in the English-speaking world, the common understanding of European cinema as one of art house production.
This module will address these many facets of what we refer to today as "Popular European Cinema." The module's methodologies reflect the rubric's multifariousness. It may be taught through a comparative approach, looking at one genre, such as melodrama or comedy, across several countries, or considering the effect of different institutional and funding contexts. It may also take a trans-national approach, looking at co-productions or stars who worked and were popular in a number of European countries. It may also discuss these dynamics through an analysis of the national cinema of one specific country. Overall, this module will address questions of industry, genre, and star appeal; of modes of production, such as the epicor the documentary; of the international success and influence of nationally popular films; of the relationship between a popular national cinema with both Hollywood and other European cinemas; and of the other popular cultural traditions, specifically those in music and performance, that have historically shaped popular European filmmaking.
Assessment details
- 10% - 500 word blog entry
- 90% - essay 2500 words
Educational aims & objectives
- To appreciate and analyse achievements in popular European cinema. - To interrogate notions of the popular. - To understand the specificity of cinematic production in Europe.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate practical and intellectual skill appropriate to a level 6 module and in particular will be able to demonstrate: - Critical skills for analysing, interpreting and forming judgements on European cinema, taking into account the circumstances of its production. - An in depth knowledge of the meanings and implications of such notions as the popular, the indigenous,commercial success. - The ability to refine ideas of genre, star, convention, cinematic address and film form in the light of the instance of popular European cinema.
Teaching pattern
Ten two and a half-hour screenings, lectures and ten one-hour seminars.
Suggested reading list
Core course readings will be provided.