Film & Media: Women in World Cinema

This course provides an introduction to representations of women in World Cinemas. As we continue to debate gender roles, gender presentation, womanhood, femininity and equal pay as relevant topics in today's society, this course provides insight into how these issues have been addressed through film from countries across the globe. We will examine films released since 2000 from countries as diverse as Sweden, Colombia and Germany – such as Lilya 4-Ever (2002), Maria Full of Grace (2004) and The Edge of Heaven (2007) – and relate common themes to current social trends in a range of contemporary societies. Through class discussions, film viewings and analyses, and cultural studies, we see how women's place in cinema provides an insight into what it means to live in this 21st-century world. Our experienced tutor will enable you to analyse the films using technical vocabulary, to debate the roles of female characters within film as a whole, and to think more broadly about the term 'world cinema'. No previous knowledge of film studies, gender studies or cultural studies is needed to take this course, just an open mind to differing cultural trends and a willingness to participate. All new students are very welcome! Come along to discover new films and directors you may not know now but which might become a favourite!