Last modified: 25 Mar 2016 11:39
This course will study contemporary Spanish film with reference to both local references and global currents. Spanish artistic production, like
all culture, is increasingly tuned
into international circuits, where filmmakers find material and
inspiration for their creations from a wide range of settings.
Therefore, we will think of Spain as a crossroads, a meeting ground of
different historical influences, connected to a global network of
migrations
and communications. In our readings of these films, we will ask how
personal and collective subjectivity is defined in relation to both
local and global contexts.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | Second Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Old Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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In this course we will study contemporary film with reference to Spain. However, they are not all entirely Spanish. Some take place in Spain but were filmed by foreign directors. Others take place outside of Spain. Almost all of the films have strong international elements or borrow from foreign genres. Spanish artistic production, like all culture, is increasingly tuned into international circuits, where filmmakers find material and inspiration for their creations from a wide range of settings.
Therefore, we will not consider Spain as a set of fixed and essential characteristics that determine the cultural manifestations occurring within its borders. We should think of Spain more as a crossroads, a meeting ground of different historical influences, connected to a global network of migrations and communications. While in a course on Franco-era Spain everything seems to be tied to a central set of concerns and struggles, contemporary cultural production is much more varied in themes and aesthetics. It is impossible to find a single current that runs through its different forms.
We will, however, think through a question that seems to run through many of these films: how do we define a self? In a context characterised by fluctuation, how are individuals and groups conceived in relation to their various determinants? (geography, personal and social relations, community, history, ethical and political concerns) In an age of global communications and virtual technologies, what role do fantasy and the imagination play in this process?
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
1st Attempt
1x 1300-word essay (30%); 1 x 2500-word essay (50%); 1 Seminar assessment mark (20%)
Written feedback on homework, which students do on MyAberdeen. Oral feedback on contributions in the seminar.
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