Music in Film

Code

MLAC2174

School

Media, Languages and Cultures

Level

2

Credits

20

Semesters

Autumn Malaysia

Summary

This module provides an introduction to the various styles of film music developed during the history of cinema, and considers aesthetic and technical issues arising from them. Topics include silent film, early sound film, the golden era of Hollywood, genre characteristics (e.g. film noir, animation, musical comedy, western, science fiction, historical epic, social drama, thriller, horror, war, etc.), trends in world cinema (with a particular focus on Asian film industry) the use of pre-existing music in film, and jazz/pop soundtracks. In the coursework and project, students are encouraged to apply conclusions drawn from class work to genres of film in which they have a special interest.

Target Students

Students of the International Communications Studies with Film and TV students, and thosewho have taken Level 1 and Level 2 Performing Arts modules. Available as subsidiary to all Year 2 students, including those of other schools. Available to JYA/Erasmus students. .

Classes

• One 1-hour seminar each week for 12 weeks
• One 2-hour lecture each week for 12 weeks

Activities may take place every teaching week of the Semester or only in specified weeks. It is usually specified above if an activity only takes place in some weeks of a Semester. One 2-hour lecture per week; one 1-hr seminar per week; one compulsory screenings per week. Breakdown of hours: classes - 33 hours; individual study - 167 hours. Two 1/2-hour drop-in slots will be scheduled for students to discuss coursework with the module convenor.

Assessment

• 50% Coursework 1: One 2700-3000 word essay
• 15% Project 1: One Practical exercise and in-class presentation.
• 35% Exam 1 (Written) (1-hour): 1 hour exam

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

A. Knowledge and Understanding: 

This module will provide students with:

·        a broad knowledge of the terrain of film music as well as an understanding of the historical evolution, and aesthetic and technical issues of the use of music in films.

·        a glossary of key terms, concepts and models relevant to the fields of music and film studies.

·        awareness of historical, commercial and social factors in the entertainment industry.

B. Intellectual Skills:

This module will encourage students to:

·        engage in close analysis and interpretation of cultural phenomena; 

·        research, gather information and apply particular models and theories to cultural issues related to the use of music in film;

·        apply critical thinking in assessing the economic issues at stake in film industry

·        develop the ability to reflect upon one’s own interests, practices and processes. 
 

C. Transferable (key) Skills:

This module will enhance transferable skills such as:

·        retrieving, presenting and communicating complex information and argument clearly in oral and written forms;

·        planning and organization skills, including working to deadline and managing resources.

Conveners

• Sergio Camacho