| Unit name | Film and TV Comedy |
|---|---|
| Unit code | FATV20005 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | I/5 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Alex Clayton |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Units you must take before you take this one (pre-requisite units) |
None |
| Units you must take alongside this one (co-requisite units) |
None |
| Units you may not take alongside this one |
None |
| School/department | Department of Film and Television |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
This unit aims to deepen an appreciation of film and television comedy. Through analysis of a range of comedic forms, alongside consideration of theories of laughter and humour, students will acquire an understanding of the workings of comedy and issues which might explain its appeal. The unit includes a practical video assignment designed to help students reflect on the creative challenges and possibilities of comic expression.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
(1) demonstrate detailed knowledge of comedic forms and conventions;
(2) show an understanding of aesthetic and social issues pertaining to the production and reception of comedy;
(3) analyse and evaluate competing theories of humour and laughter;
(4) understand the creative challenges and possibilities of screen comedy and consider individual works in light of these factors.
(5) demonstrate practical skills in one or more aspects of short filmmaking.
Weekly seminar/workshop and screening, supported by self-directed tasks where appropriate.
2000 word essay (50%) ILO 1-4
3-5 minute film (50%) ILO 1, 2, 5
Films can be made either individually or in groups, at the unit convenor’s discretion and within a defined range (i.e. individual projects and small groups, or larger groups and no individual projects). The required length of the film will vary, depending on the number of students involved and the specific nature of the project. Films made in groups will be awarded a single
grade.
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. FATV20005).
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.
