Description
Developing an awareness of how gender inequality is coded and perpetuated through the media forms an essential part in the challenging of persistent, limiting patterns in our contemporary world. With a specific focus on feminist pioneers of cinema and scholarship who oppose and subvert sexism and misogyny through their work, this module uses film and feminist theoretical texts to cultivate a criticality of sexism in the media of the post-millenium, namely film. From objectified and fragmented female bodies to theories of intersectional spectatorship, the course offers holistic insights into gender and power on screen. Over the course of this module, we will develop a critical appreciation of those filmmakers and films that subvert and fight against sexist and limiting assumptions in society and culture. We will also cultivate a critical feminist awareness to catch and critique those instances of sexism that manifest on screen, from the flagrant, to the unwitting and, under patriarchal design, unremarkable. With an intersectional, decolonial feminist ethos at its centre, this module highlights the important task of making visible and deconstructing those power structures that reinforce gender hegemonies and other forms of dominion. From the innovations inspired by the ‘male gaze’ theory to overlooked audience demographics, we will consider the development of feminism and its challenges in the early 21st century via film form.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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