BA (Hons) Film

Explore stylistic choices in film as a way to add substance to expressive and analytic elements. Firstly, you’ll take a historical approach to film style, through analysis of the significance of practices of filmmaking. Secondly, you’ll be encouraged to apply ideas on style and general choices to your specific projects.

You’ll be encouraged to look both into auteurist versions of style (why do David Lynch or Godard do the things they do?) and others focused on movements or sets of ideas (“neorealism”, “dogma”, etc.). “Classical” style is defined in the early lectures as a general basic template. By challenging certain aspects of classicism (editing, composition, logic, narration) styles can become distinctive and distinctly expressive. You’ll explore and contextualise the work of influential cinematographers of the past and present and be introduced to key areas of technical and artistic advancements – through practice and the practical application of taught concepts.

You’ll explore different computer or digital tools (like how you mine big data, and also how to digitally visualise data). You look at how they can be used to propose new ways of understanding and generating knowledge within film and cinema studies.

This will help you to progress your research skills of critically analysing and solution finding in the digital sphere.

Through this module you’ll complement and build further knowledge of the principles of story design you studied in Making Film 2: Screenwriting for Film and TV. You’ll carry out a detailed exploration of the anatomy of storytelling techniques for short/feature films and serial formats. You’ll also closely analyse screenplays and their realisation on screen.

You’ll have the opportunity to develop your own story ideas from original conception through the various stages typical of the related industrial practices culminating in a script package. Also you’ll get to pitch for a short film (that will be produced on Making Film 5: Short Film Production in Semester 2, if undertaken). Emphasis will be placed on contemporary popular cinema and on genres. Also you’ll get to hear from and work with a professional screenwriter who’ll also contribute to the module.

You'll enhance your creative, practical, and collaborative skills in film production. Building on what you've learned in Making Film 1 and screenwriting modules, specifically Making Film 4: Screenwriting Craft and Practice, on this module you’ll take your abilities to the next level.

Through a mix of seminars, tutorials, and hands-on exercises, you’ll have a platform to excel in short film script development and production management. Get ready to create and shoot your own original works, gaining valuable experience along the way. This module is all about putting your skills into action and honing your filmmaking craft. Bringing your vision to life.

The use of stars is central to the view of film as mass entertainment and their appearances and their effect on the medium sometimes bring it slightly closer to art. A star is a performer with a particular mystique, a specific persona, who somehow engages with audiences in specific ways. Their qualities appear to be natural, but they are actually manufactured and marketed, and often depend more on the surrounding culture than on any personal features of individuals. Stars change with time as dreams and expectations of audiences change.

Looking at film stars is a way of looking at film reception. You’ll examine star careers and their significance to film audiences. Also you’ll also focus on how stars epitomise certain aspects of movies and represent genres.

Specific examples of study will include

• Bette Davis
• Jane Fonda
• Judy Garland
• James Dean
• Clark Gable
• Marilyn Monroe
• Tom Cruise
• Ryan Gosling or George Clooney.

This is your opportunity to conduct either a research project in a clearly defined area in depth; or a short film or screenwriting project

You’ll develop your focus for the module with guidance from your academic supervisor, before your aim and focus is approved by the module leader. It’s your chance to further progress your key research skills to build increased understanding of the film industry.

Explore the dynamic shifts in how movies reach audiences, both in public spaces and private settings. In today's digital era, film distribution, the key profit driver, faces challenges from piracy and on-demand streaming, disrupting the industry.

Film festivals play a crucial role as a marketplace where independent producers sell and distributors buy films. Beyond commerce, festivals nurture interest in films and cater to specific fan cultures, like horror enthusiasts. The exhibition sector spans various cinemas, from multiplexes to independents, incorporating innovations like event cinema, pop-up screens, and immersive experiences. You’ll look into the intricate process of how films connect with their viewers, and you’ll hear from guest speakers from festivals, distribution, and exhibition sectors. Building your knowledge of the evolving landscape of film consumption and further developing your understanding of audiences.

Dive into the world of independent film movements in the North American and British cinemas, exploring from two distinct angles: an internal aesthetic perspective and an external viewpoint.

In the first half of the module, we'll focus on the internal perspective. This involves exploring film style, examining elements like a film's arthouse credentials, its portrayal of character subjectivity, and its storytelling techniques. It's all about understanding the artistry behind the lens.

In the second half , we’ll explore the external perspective. Here, the spotlight is on the cultural, economic, and industrial facets of independent filmmaking in Britain and North America. We unravel the intricate processes of how independent films secure funding, navigate production, and carve out their space in the market. Plus, you'll discuss how these films contribute to and shape national identity. Build your knowledge and applicable understanding of the multifaceted world of independent cinema.

Career Development Placement The aim of this module is to develop the professional profile and professional confidence of a student through experiential learning opportunities and engagement with external organisations by undergoing work placements, internships and industry experiences. It aims to enable students to manage their own learning and self-direction through identifying opportunities that align to their disciplinary ambitions, situating their practice in a professional context. It offers a range of options including an Enterprise Residency where students can operate as freelancers and develop ideas for a start-up business with the full support of Brookes Enterprise Support.

This module is your gateway to the world of film theories and analysis methods. We're giving you an overview of various film theories and the analysis methods tied to them. With a hands-on approach it’ll help you test the validity and relevance of different theoretical frameworks.

You’ll sharpen your sensitivity to the heuristic value (that's the practical usefulness) and the limits of film theory. This isn't just about studying theories; it's about applying them, understanding their strengths, and acknowledging their limitations.

Develop your strategies and skills, preparing for a career in the vibrant realm of the 'creative industries'. What does that include? Think media journalism, film festivals, education, media distribution and publicity, heritage industries, and even academic and research-based positions.

This isn't just about learning; it's about preparing you for the dynamic landscapes of various creative fields. Whether you envision yourself in journalism, organising film festivals, shaping education, or delving into research, we’re here to offer you support to achieve your aim.

You'll be exploring the development and pre-production of a short film. What does that involve? Well, you'll be planning, researching, writing, and managing the production. Why? Because this is the groundwork for the exciting follow-on module – Making Film 7: Short Film Project, where your creation comes to life on film.

But don't worry, you won't be navigating this alone. You’ve got a dedicated module leader and a consulting member of staff to guide you through the process. It's not just about making a film; it's about crafting your vision from the very beginning. Prepare to embark on this filmmaking journey.

Building on your groundwork laid in Making Film 6: Short Film Development, you're now diving into the action – the Production and Post-Production phases of your project.

We've got regular supervisory sessions lined up, ensuring you receive valuable feedback to fine-tune your project as it progresses. Together, we'll structure your project through these crucial phases, and not just that – we're gearing up to create a solid plan for distributing and marketing your finished masterpiece. Let's turn your vision into reality.

This is your chance to dive deep into a specialist area of research in film. The best part? You get to shape the content. It's a direct negotiation between you and your supervisor, and of course, the module leader gives you the green light.

Your task is to craft an 8,000 – 10,000 word dissertation. What does that include? A thorough literature review, spot-on references, and adherence to the conventions of academic writing. Plus, your research will be centred around a focused problem. It's not just a paper; it's a chance to explore, analyse, and contribute to the world of film research.