Studying film - Nathan Abrams

Studying Filmencourages the enjoyment and understanding of a wide range of different types of film together with an awareness of the nature and role of cinema as a medium, art form and social and economic institution. It also looks closely at the very specific ways in which film images and sounds generate meaning. Responses to film are explored and how to apply critical terminology to construct meaning is explained. The 'why' and 'when' of film production is analysed to place film production, dissemination and consumption in context.

The book covers: Cinema as Institution; Film as Text; Movies and Audiences. Part one explores early cinema, American cinema, British cinema, world cinema and alternative cinema, as well as production, distribution and exhibition. The effect of media conglomerate ownership on the film industry, and globalisation, is analysed with reference to technological developments and their impact on the sector. Part two, Film as Text, examines how images and sounds communicate meaning. Key terms and practices are explained, such as mise en scne, cinematography, editing and sound. Mainstream and alternative cinematic techniques are described followed by the history of film technology developments and future possibilities. Part three looks at movies and audience responses in a historical and contemporary context and explores the issue of censorship. Film theories are discussed, followed by authorship, genre and, of course, the stars of the big screen.

Studying Filmcontains extensive references to guide further research, a useful glossary of key terms, and case studies and summaries to consolidate learning. It is an essential tool for all film studies students and an accompanying website,www.hodderplus.com/film, provides sample questions, film summaries and a film chronology.