The Magic of Movies: How Cinema Works

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes in movies and why they look the way they do? This course will take you on a vivid, eye-opening journey through the heart of cinema. You will discover how art and technology have shaped film from its earliest flickering images to today’s spectacular visual effects.

You will explore why cameras began to move, how colour transformed storytelling, and how editing evolved to reshape time and space. You will examine the development of sound, lenses, lighting, and the changing dimensions of the screen. You will also investigate the craft of set design, costume and makeup across both black-and-white and colour film.

By the end of the course, you will be able to look behind the scenes and understand how filmmakers create the on-screen illusions that astonish audiences.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with 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:  

• Describe and explain camera work
• Identify similarities and divergences between different periods and regions
• Discuss technical continuity in the evolution of cinema as an art form
• Evaluate the impact of the new art form and the relationship between technical development and artistic achievements. 

This course will appeal to anyone interested in understanding film techniques. No previous experience is required.

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.  

No previous knowledge is required, you only need an interest in watching and discussing films.

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.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course start date, unless the course is full or cancelled.