| CODE | CHN3024 |
| TITLE | Chinese Cinema |
| UM LEVEL | 03 - Years 2, 3, 4 in Modular Undergraduate Course |
| EQF/MQF LEVEL | Not Applicable |
| ECTS CREDITS | 4 |
| DEPARTMENT | Middle Eastern and Asian Languages and Cultures |
| DESCRIPTION | This study-unit aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical evolution, aesthetic forms, and cultural significance of Chinese cinema from its early beginnings to the present day. The study-unit explores the dynamic development of film as both an artistic medium and a vehicle for social commentary, tracing how cinema in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan has responded to—and helped shape—major historical and cultural transformations over the past century. Through the viewing, analysis, and critical discussion of landmark films and influential directors, students will engage with diverse cinematic movements and styles, from the silent era and socialist realism to the New Wave and contemporary global cinema. Special attention will be given to the social, political, and philosophical dimensions of film production and reception, examining how questions of modernity, identity, and nationhood are negotiated on screen. All films will be presented with English subtitles. Study-Unit Aims: The Study-Unit aims to: - Introduce students to key films, directors, and cinematic movements that have shaped Chinese cinema from the Republican era to the contemporary global stage; - Develop a nuanced understanding of the evolution of cinematic language, aesthetics, and narrative forms within Chinese cultural and historical contexts; - Critically examine how film reflects, interprets, and constructs social identities, political ideologies, and cultural transformations in modern and contemporary China. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Describe the historical development and major trends of Chinese cinema across different regions and periods; - Identify the thematic, stylistic, and ideological concerns of influential filmmakers and cinematic movements; - Recognize how Chinese cinema engages with broader issues of modernity, nationhood, gender, and globalization, both within and beyond the Chinese-speaking world. 2. Skills: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Analyse and interpret Chinese films using appropriate theoretical and critical frameworks; - Contextualize cinematic works within broader cultural, political, and historical developments in China and East Asia; - Communicate informed and critical perspectives on film through written and oral analysis, demonstrating awareness of visual storytelling, narrative structure, and socio-cultural representation. |
| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture |
| LECTURER/S | Nan Hu |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2026/7. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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