Course content

This course provides an introduction to film as narrative medium. It surveys and examines the rise of film from its initial storytelling form, via the classical film story to modern post-classical forms influenced by television and video. The storytelling aspect of film is approached from the basis of film aesthetics, with emphasis on cinematic effectual means and genre.

Learning outcome

The course aims at providing basic knowledge about the history and theory of motion pictures.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, film screenings, tutorials.


Compulsory assignment:
Students must pass an oral presentation before final assessment can be made.


More on assessment:
The method of assessment will be a one week take-home examination, where students will be asked to answer the examination questions in 10-15 pages.


Students are required to check the result of their assignments on the department's bulletin board.


Students are required to stay updated on any information provided by the department or course director, either via It's learning, Innsida, course pages on the web, or on bulletin boards.

Compulsory assignments

• Oral presentation.

Course materials

Set readings of approx. 1200 pages - plus films shown in connection to the teaching

Credit reductions