Film Theory and Criticism

Film theory is the study of how films work—how they create meaning, affect audiences, and reflect or shape society and culture. By understanding Film Theory, we can analyze not just the story the film tells but how it tells it and why that matters, all with the aid of concepts developed over cinema’s history.  

During each week of this course, we’ll introduce a different approach to film by considering key works from across film history, exploring theories such as realism and psychoanalysis, structuralism and semiotics.  

We will look, for example, at “Germany Year Zero” under realism and “Vertigo” under psychoanalysis. Other works that will be discussed will be “Taxi Driver” and “Pickpocket”, “Vagabond” and “Welfare” as we examine film through the lens of ideology, politics and gender.  

Any essential or recommended reading will be shared by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a device with an internet connection.  

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course, you should be able to:  

• Develop critical understanding of how cinema works and how films can be "read";
• Understand the basics of film analysis;
• Demonstrate knowledge of selected film theories.  

This course would help build the knowledge of those who have taken an introductory film studies course but is also accessible to those with no prior knowledge of film.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy. 

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study. This course would help build the knowledge of those who have taken an introductory film studies course but is also accessible to those with no prior knowledge of film.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date.