| Unit name | Filmmaking through Hitchcock |
|---|---|
| Unit code | FATV10006 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | C/4 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Gaggiotti |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
FATV10001 Film Fundamentals |
| School/department | Department of Film and Television |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
This unit will develop student understanding of and skills in filmmaking. In this unit students will learn to create sequences through hands-on camera and editing practice and a study of techniques used by director Alfred Hitchcock. The unit takes its cue from the French film-maker and critic François Truffaut's observation that "the art of film-making is an especially difficult one to master, inasmuch as it calls for multiple and contradictory talents ... In Hitchcock's work a film-maker is bound to find the answer to many of [her or] his problems, including the most fundamental question of all: how to express oneself by purely visual means" (Truffaut 1986: 14/17). Alongside close analysis of Hitchcock's work, students will undertake two group exercises to grasp the filmmaking structures that are key to effective screen drama. The unit will explore parameters of creative expression in and through screen practice to gain an understanding of relations between the creative impulse and some conventions of representation. In small groups, students will follow a selected creative process from initial ideas through planning and production, culminating in a short film.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. demonstrate an understanding of the ways in which aesthetic and formal qualities, as well as basic dramatic structures, create affects and meanings in film;
2. show analytical skills and practical understanding related to directorial style, specifically in relation to formal choices which realise, develop or challenge existing practices and traditions;
3. experiment with forms, conventions, languages, techniques and practices of narrative filmmaking;
4. apply key production processes and professional practices, such as storyboarding, cinematography and editing, relevant to film and television industries;
5. produce work within a group. showing abilities to listen, contribute and lead effectively;
6. evaluate their own work in a reflexive manner, with reference to academic and professional issues, debates and conventions;
7. reflect upon their own work in key production areas, engaging with issues of authorship and creativity;
8. demonstrate knowledge and use of safe working practices.
Bi-weekly seminar, lecture and screening/workshop, supported by self-directed tasks where appropriate.
100% Practical Portfolio equivalent to 3000 words
If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.
If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. FATV10006).
How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours
of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks,
independent learning and assessment activity.
See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.
Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit.
The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an
assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates
within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.
