If American movies can still be characterised as constructing a dominant image of the United States (not only for the American people themselves but also for much of the rest of the world), then this filmmaking might be counted as one of the most influential and productive forces in the US culture industries. The cinema of the USA has not only reflected but also shaped and anticipated much of the country's history and politics, yet the key figures behind these media products are often far more complex, unpredictable, and even controversial than we might at first imagine. Researching and unpacking the nuances of their relationship to their craft has become a key task of doing film histories and film analysis.
This module aims to consider these ideas through examination of the work of directors, actors, writers, and other key figures who have worked both inside and outside Hollywood. Arguably, many of these figures have had a significant role in mapping the space of America in the popular imagination, while others have provided key alternatives to mainstream views and comprehension of the USA. While critically studying and interrogating the conventions of auteur theory, this module covers a breadth of US film history and genres. Films discussed may include Taxi Driver, Touch of Evil, The Night of the Hunter, 12 Years a Slave, Marvel's Avengers, Moonlight and The Miseducation of Cameron Post.
Content note:
This module may contain screenings and class clips that contain adult content (including but not limited to violence and sexual violence, themes of suicide or self-harm, and representations of war). If you are concerned that you might be adversely affected by such materials, please contact your module tutor or Personal Tutor. You may also find it useful to consult advisory websites such as the British Board of Film Classification (www.bbfc.co.uk) and Common Sense Media (www.commonsensemedia.org).