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Film History: 1930-1960

Key information

  • Module code:

    4AAQH131

  • Level:

    4

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

Film History: 1930-1960 surveys the international developments of the film medium and the film industry from the introduction of sound in the late 1920s through WWII and into the post-war era up to the late 1950s, covering key technological, textual and institutional developments and tying these together with the broader cultural and social context in which films were made, exhibited, and understood. Students will gain understanding of the style, content, industrial organisation, and production and marketing strategies of a range of national cinemas. Special emphasis will be given to questions about realism, formal experimentation, entertainment and politics in filmmaking of this period. 

Assessment details

  • Participation (10%)
  • Essay 1 (1000 words) OR video essay (max. 2 minutes) with accompanying written critical reflection (500 words) (30%)
  • Essay 2 (2000 words) OR video essay (max. 3 minutes) with accompanying written critical reflection (1000 words) (60%)

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.