This course offers you the opportunity to explore key aspects of film analysis, theory, history and practice. Through a range of different approaches to the study of film, including genre and textual analysis, audience studies, and media archaeology, you will be exposed to some of the most pressing debates about film today. Questions of ethics and whether we can consider film as a document; of how film works on our bodies as an affective medium; the reasons for film’s close affinity to urban, cosmopolitan and diasporic cultures; and the historical legacy of film as an international, and now transnational medium, are all central to the course. In exploring these questions, you will be introduced to some of the liveliest and most important chapters in the history of cinema. The MA is both a valuable qualification in its own right and a pathway if you wish to study subsequently for a PhD in Film Studies. This programme will: Allow you to explore key aspects of film analysis, theory, history and practice; Give you the opportunity to develop practical film making, scriptwriting, and directing skills, as well as study theoretical modules; Offer you the chance to debate cutting edge issues in Film Studies; Compared to other Film Studies departments, Queen Mary has particular strengths in new areas of research in Film Philosophy, in Ecocinema and Screening Nature, and in film outside the cinema - in art galleries, on public screens, across social media. Teaching is by a mixture of formal lectures and small group seminars. The seminars are designed to generate informed discussion around set topics, and may involve student presentations, group exercise and role-play as well as open discussion. We take pride in the close and friendly working relationship we have with our students. You are assigned an Academic Adviser who will guide you in both academic and pastoral matters throughout your time at Queen Mary. The direction of your individual study will be guided by the formal study sessions you attend, along with your reading lists and assignments. However, we expect you to demonstrate an active role in your own learning by reading widely and expanding your own knowledge, understanding and critical ability. Independent study will foster in you the ability to identify your own learning needs and determine which areas you need to focus on to become proficient in your subject area. This is an important transferable skill and will help to prepare you for the transition to working life. You will submit three essays for the core module, one of 2,000-words and two of 3,000-words, and one 4,000-word essay for each of the two options.