Singapore Film in the 21st Century

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Singapore Film in the 21st Century (FLM351)

Applications Open: To be confirmed

Applications Close: To be confirmed

Next Available Intake: To be confirmed

Course Types: Modular Undergraduate Course

Language: English

Duration: 6 months

Fees: To be confirmed

Area of Interest: Digital Media

Schemes: Alumni Continuing Education (ACE)

Funding: To be confirmed

School/Department: School of Humanities & Behavioural Sciences

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Synopsis

The course focuses on the wide array of Singapore films made from 2001 onwards. The course will look at key films, ranging from highly commercial films with mass appeal to independent films on shoestring budgets. Students will study how contemporary local films tackle issues such as heartland dreams, national identity, taboo subjects, nostalgia, and language use, and will trace out the trends and changes as the local film industry matures. Students will also examine crucial factors affecting local filmmaking, such as the availability of funding, the role of censorship, the importance of local filmmaking schools, and the impact of film awards. Students will be required to view representative Singapore films and critique relevant articles. The films will feature the use of English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, and some Chinese dialects

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every July
E-Learning: - Learning is done MAINLY online using interactive study materials in Canvas. Students receive guidance and support from online instructors via discussion forums and emails. This is supplemented with SOME face-to-face sessions. If the course has an exam component, this will be administered on-campus. To be confirmed

Topics

Singapore Cinema: Revival
Telling Singapore Stories
Singapore Film and Nostalgia
Singapore Film and Controversy
Singapore Independent and Arthouse Films
Singapore Film: Recognition and Support

Learning Outcome

Show thorough knowledge of filmmaking in Singapore from 2001 onwards.
Analyse the themes, styles, motifs, and structures of contemporary Singapore film.
Appraise the impact that key factors such as funding, censorship, and industry recognition have on local film.
Examine the significance of social, political, cultural, and economic contexts in the creation and reception of contemporary Singapore film.
Use close reading skills to construct a critical analysis of thematic concerns in contemporary Singapore film.
Construct well-researched responses on the key trends and developments in the style, subject matter, and attitude of contemporary Singapore film.