Film Theory: The Basics provides an accessible introduction to the key theorists, concepts, and debates within the study of moving images. A detailed overview, which situates theory within larger cultural and intellectual developments, it examines film theory from its emergence in the early twentieth century to present issues and debates and introduces students to the broader social, cultural, and aesthetic contexts that have shaped the reception of film. Outlining ongoing debates about its significance, it links concepts to key works and theorists. Film Theory: The Basics is a valuable resource for students and is complete with a glossary of key terms and suggestions for further study.
Film Theory: The Basics provides an accessible introduction to the key theorists, concepts, and debates that have shaped the study of moving images. It examines film theory from its emergence in the early twentieth century to its study in the present day, and explores why film has drawn special attention as a medium, as a form of representation, and as a focal point in the rise of modern visual culture.
The book emphasizes how film theory has developed as a historically contingent discourse, one that has evolved and changed in conjunction with different social, political, and intellectual factors. To explore this fully, the book is broken down into the following distinct sections:
- Theory Before Theory, 1915-1960
- French Theory, 1949-1968
- Screen Theory, 1969-1996
- Post-Theory, 1996-2015
Complete with questions for discussion and a glossary of both key terms and key theorists, Film Theory: The Basics is an invaluable resource for those new to film studies and for anyone else interested in the history and significance of critical thinking in relation to the moving image.
