The Global Australian Cinema

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Usually 12.5 points of first-year cinema studies.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Global and national forces have shaped world cinema from its inception in the late nineteenth century. How, then, do we define a national cinema? This subject will examine the various factors that help shape and define the nature of the Australian film industry. Through an examination of a wide range of films made in Australia and abroad by local and international directors, actors and crews, that were funded by sources as diverse as multi-national corporations, governments and smaller organizations, this subject will explore the nature of the Australian film industry. Beginning with silent cinema, the subject examines the work of British, French and American directors who have worked in the Australian film industry. Focus will be on the development of the local industry and the emergence of national themes as well as the impact of Hollywood, of the British, European and later, Asian cinematic traditions, on the Australian cinematic tradition. Discussion will focus also on the role of auteur directors such as Gillian Armstrong, Phillip Noyce, Peter Weir, Jane Campion and Baz Luhrman. The representation of class, ethnicity, race and gender and such themes as mono-culturalism, assimilation, xenophobia and cosmopolitanism will be explored.

A 2000 word tutorial paper 40%(due during semester) and a 3000-word essay 60% (due during the examination period).

Assessment submitted late without an approved formal extension will be penalised at 2% per day. Students who fail to submit up to 2-weeks after the final due date without a formal extension and/or special consideration will receive a fail grade for the piece of assessment.

Prescribed Texts:

A subject reader will be available.

• be skilled in critical thinking and analysis;

• possess effective written communication skills;

• have an understanding of social, ethical and cultural context.

Formerly availble as 107-087 Contemporary Australian Cinema. Students who have completed 107-087 and 107-085 Australian Cinema are not eligible to enrol in this subject.