Singapore University of Social Sciences

Film Theory is a survey of the major theoretical approaches to film. Students will study the early theories that sought to establish that cinema was a legitimate art form with medium-specific properties and effects. They will gradually move on to theories borrowing from disciplines such as philosophy, psychology, linguistics, economics, and political science. Students will examine how these approaches affect the production and interpretation of a film. They will apply various theoretical approaches to films and assess their usefulness and impact. Students will be required to critique assigned readings and view associated films.