Film Studies - Classic British Films Reviewed
This course will take place online.
Ranging from cult comedies to haunting drama, and encompassing both acclaim and controversy, these highly rated films are: Gregory's Girl (Bill Forsyth, UK, 1980), Withnail and I (Bruce Robinson, UK, 1987), Monty Python's Life of Brian (Terry Jones, UK, 1979), Doctor Zhivago (David Lean, UK - Italy - USA, 1965) and The Crying Game (Neil Jordan, UK, 1992).
The qualities, production and reception of these films will be considered through viewing and analysis of film extracts, tutor presentations and class discussions.
This course is a follow-on to a course which looked at other films in the poll, but it is a stand-alone course and you do not need to have taken part in the previous ones.
Who is this course for?
This course is for anyone with an interest in film and a curiosity to learn more about cinema. You are not required to have any prior film knowledge of or familiarity with the films under discussion.
Will I need any equipment or materials?
You are not required to purchase any textbooks or to arrange access to the films.
Hilary is a great tutor, and her ability to make it an open and inclusive experience is fantastic.
Joining via Zoom
This course or event will be held via Zoom. You need a computer/laptop or mobile phone to access the Zoom website, and a reliable internet connection. For further information on how to join a Zoom meeting, you can watch the joining video here.
You will need a computer or other device to connect with Zoom and a notebook/paper and pen/pencil, or digital equivalent.
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Need to Know
You will learn
- Identify aesthetic qualities of the selected films
- Describe production contexts of the selected films
- Recognise distinguishing qualities of the filmmakers’ work
Meet the Tutor
Hilary Smith
Hilary Smith is a lecturer in film studies at Birkbeck, University of London, and has also taught at City University London, Imperial College London and Arcadia University.
Hilary has a professional background in film curation and arts administration, and was formerly a curator and programme manager for BFI Southbank (formerly known as the National Film Theatre) at the British Film Institute.
Hilary has received a Distinguished Teaching and Scholarship Award for ‘an outstanding contribution to teaching and learning’.
Course Overview
Week 1
What makes a great British film?
By the end of the session, you should be able to identify approaches taken to the evaluation and categorisation of films.
Week 2
Gregory's Girl (Bill Forsyth, UK, 1980)
By the end of the session you should be able to identify key characteristics and qualities of the film and contextual factors of its production and reception.
Week 3
Withnail and I (Bruce Robinson, UK, 1987)
By the end of the session you should be able to identify key characteristics and qualities of the film and contextual factors of its production and reception.
Week 4
Monty Python's Life of Brian (Terry Jones, UK, 1979)
By the end of the session you should be able to identify key characteristics and qualities of the film and contextual factors of its production and reception.
Week 5
Doctor Zhivago (David Lean, UK - Italy - USA, 1965)
By the end of the session you should be able to identify key characteristics and qualities of the film and contextual factors of its production and reception.
Week 6
The Crying Game (Neil Jordan, UK, 1992)
By the end of the session you should be able to identify key characteristics and qualities of the film and contextual factors of its production and reception.
Dates and Times
Film Studies - Classic British Films Reviewed
– , 7:24 - 9:24
