2024/25 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

COMM5825M Film Theory and Practice

30 creditsClass Size: 35

Module manager: Rafe Clayton
Email: r.m.clayton@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisite qualifications

Experience in practical photography or digital film at undergraduate intermediary or advanced level, or equivalent

Module replaces

COMM5815M Cinematics and Photography

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module explores film theory alongside creative practice and experience of short film production. The film short is studied as a way of addressing ontological questions about cinema in the 21st century, media convergence and digital creation/dissemination. Critical relationships are investigated through a combination of academic research into the changing nature of film and exploration of theoretical concepts through digital filmmaking.

Objectives

Film Theory and Practice aims to establish a better understanding of short film as a distinct form, whilst contextualising it within the broader cinema and digital media landscapes. The lecture programme will encourage students to think critically about both cinematic form and content, and then challenge the conventions of audio-visual structure and narrative in their creative work. Students will have the opportunity to experience practical production of a short film project, underpinned with analysis of cinematic form-content in an essay on film theory

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Apply critical and theoretical models to analyse and explore the production of short films.
2. Produce creative-critical material that communicates ideas and concepts across convergent lens-based practices.
3. Contribute to short film production independently and collaboratively while meeting tight deadlines, and present work to high standards.

Skills learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:

1. Effectively convey complex concepts and ideas through written, verbal, and lens-based media, and in accordance with academic standards.
2. Apply creative problem-solving skills to address challenges encountered in the production and execution of projects.
3. Demonstrate technical proficiency in using relevant equipment, editing software, digital media, and other relevant tools in film and photography production.

Syllabus

Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Workshop	11	1.00	11.00
Drop-in Session	1	1.00	1.00
Lecture	11	1.00	11.00
Private study hours			277.00
Total Contact hours			23.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			300.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Students will be monitored through a number of ongoing mechanisms throughout the duration of the module including attendance, participation in classes and through assessments. In addition, formative feedback will be provided at various stages. In the seminars and workshops, lecturer guided group discussions will take place through which students can benefit from peer and tutor feedback on their critical thinking and the development of creative ideas. In week 5, students will (in groups) present a 5 minute pitch for their film idea. Students will receive written and verbal feedback on their presentations. Lecturer/peer feedback will continue throughout workshop and seminar discussion during the film production stage. Students are invited to share progress and seek lecturer feedback each week. In weeks 9 and 10, students are invited to discuss their essays and receive lecturer feedback on progress and ideas.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Essay or Dissertation	3000-3500 words	50.00
Group Project	5 minutes (approx.)	50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 30/05/2024 09:20:42

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