Course

Unit I

Film Language

Introduction to the basic vocabulary and grammar of film- Understanding the visual and auditory elements of cinematic language- Exploring how filmmakers use various techniques to convey meaning and evoke emotions in audiences.

Unit II

Mise-en-Scene

Definition and components of mise-en-scene- Analysis of how setting, props, costumes, and lighting contribute to the overall aesthetics and narrative of a film- Case studies of films with exemplary use of mise- en-scene to enhance storytelling.

Unit III

Film Genres

Introduction to major film genres and their defining characteristics- Taxonomies of film genre -Genre history

-Genre iconography- Social functions of genres- Genre mixing- Case study -Analyzing selected film genres.

Unit IV

Film History

Early Cinema- Films of Edwin S Porter, D W Griffith, and Georg Méliès- German Expressionist Cinema- Soviet Montage and Constructive Editing- Italian Neorealist Cinema- French New Wave- New Hollywood Unit 5: Indian Cinema

Overview of the history and evolution of Indian cinema from its inception to the present day- Exploration of the contributions of pioneering Indian filmmakers such as Satyajit Ray, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, and Ritwik Ghatak to the global cinematic landscape

Objective:

This course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the language, aesthetics, and cultural significance of cinema through the exploration of various thematic units. Beginning with the fundamentals of film language and mise-en-scene, students will progress to the study of film genres, movements, and finally, a dedicated exploration of Indian cinema. Through theoretical inquiry, critical analysis, and practical engagement, students will develop the necessary skills to analyze and interpret films, recognizing the interconnectedness between formal elements, narrative structures, and socio-cultural contexts.

Course Outcome (CO):

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• CO1: Recall and demonstrate an understanding of fundamental concepts related to film language, mise-en-scene, film genres, movements, and Indian cinema, including key terminology and theoretical frameworks.
• CO2: Analyze and interpret the significance of formal elements such as cinematography, editing, sound, and performance in conveying meaning and eliciting emotional responses in cinematic texts.
• CO3: Through practical exercises, film screenings, and discussions, students will apply their understanding of film language, mise-en-scene, and genre conventions to analyze and critique films from diverse cultural contexts and periods.
• CO4: Critically analyze films within the contexts of specific film movements and the broader socio-political, historical, and cultural frameworks, identifying recurring themes, stylistic innovations, and ideological perspectives.
• CO5: Evaluate the cultural significance, artistic merits, and socio-political implications of films, engaging in debates and discussions on controversial topics within Indian cinema and global film culture.
• CO6: Develop their own original research projects or creative assignments on various

CO-PO Mapping:

Suggested References:

1. Beginning Film Studies: Andrew Dix
2. Film Studies: An Introduction: Ed Sikov
3. Film Art and Introduction: David Bordwell
4. How to Read a Film: James Monaco
5. In the Blink of an Eye: A Perspective on Film Editing: Walter Murch
6. Film Studies for Dummies: James Cateridge