What will I learn on this module?
This module will encourage students to explore key aesthetic, economic, ideological and historical issues in relation to Hollywood cinema. These include analysing the formation of the studio system in the late teens and how this led to Hollywood becoming a global, dominant force; how Hollywood representations can be linked to broader ideologies; how aesthetics and representations are influenced by censorship; and how Hollywood has changed historically in relation to social factors. The latter will lead to an understanding of periodisation (such as classical and post-classical Hollywood); of technical innovations and their impacts (such as the introduction of sound and colour); the changing nature of stardom; the increasing acceptance of Hollywood as an art form; and how Hollywood has absorbed international trends and personnel. An indicative syllabus is as follows:
1. Authorship and Hollywood
2. The Studio System
3. Sound and Music
4. Censorship
5. The B Movie
6. Genreand Hollywood
7. Stardom
8. Indiewood
9. Gender and Hollywood
10. Technology and Hollywood
11. Global Hollywood
How will I learn on this module?
The module is taught via a lecture (two hours) and associated seminar (one hour). The lectures will introduce students to key historical and theoretical issues, and relevant film examples. Seminar activities will strengthen student knowledge and critical reflection upon the issues under discussion. Each week, students will be required to watch a relevant film that will provide a case-study for that week’s lecture and seminar. Finally, tutorials support students with specific issues, not least concerning assessment. Students are required to make positive contributions to the learning experience. They are expected to prepare for classes by studying books, articles, films and Internet sources, references to which are provided by the module guide, e-reading list, and supplementary material posted on the e-learning portal. They are also encouraged to develop communication skills by taking an active part in seminar discussions. Assessment will be through a 3000-word essay (100%) toward the end of the module.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Seminars will involve discussions on that week’s topic, providing a constructive environment for the enhancement of knowledge and understanding of the subject, and preparation for the assessment tasks. Class material (such as Powerpoint slides, links to film clips and discussion points) will be accessible via the e-Learning portal, along with supplementary learning material (which may include web links, suggestions for further viewing and reading). A list of key and further reading material will be available on the eLP, and an electronic reading list will link you directly to key sources, allowing you to access them anytime and anywhere. The module will also incorporate assessment preparation sessions, with advice on how to approach the essay.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• To understand the different critical understandings of Hollywood cinema, including textual and contextual approaches.
• To locate the development of the studio system within historical contexts, relating to social, institutional and technological issues.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• Communication of academic theories and ideas, demonstrating communication skills.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• To cultivate an awareness of the global dimensions of Hollywood cinema and how this impacts on cultures.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is by one 3000 word essay (100%).
The tasks address all the MLOs relating to knowledge/understanding and intellectual/professional skills in testing: an understanding of critical approaches to the subject, an appreciation of historical contexts, and the communication of critical understanding.
There be written summative feedback for the assessment, which will provide critical commentary on strengths and weaknesses. Students also have the opportunity to discuss feedback further with the module tutor.
Assignments are submitted electronically via Turnitin
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.
Course info
UCAS Code W405
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years full-time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Arts
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2024
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.
Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.
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